Description
Crispy, golden pretzel-crusted chicken paired with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce — this Pretzel Chicken is a fun and flavorful twist on classic comfort food that’s crunchy on the outside and juicy inside.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (fine crumbs)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for baking)
- For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Cut chicken into even portions if necessary. Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Set up a breading station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with crushed pretzels.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with crushed pretzels. Press gently so crumbs stick.
- Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes (depending on thickness), or until chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pretzel chicken hot, drizzled or dipped in mustard-cheddar sauce. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use a mix of pretzel sticks and twists for varied texture.
- Try adding a tablespoon of beer to the sauce for depth of flavor.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.
- Leftovers reheat best in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American