Why Make This Recipe

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce is a delightful dish that combines crunchy, savory flavors with a creamy, cheesy sauce. The pretzel crust gives the chicken a unique texture, while the cheddar mustard sauce adds richness and a bit of tang. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, and it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
15-ounce bag salted pretzels (about 3 cups)
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs
Vegetable oil for frying
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ cup flat leaf parsley leaves, chopped
¼ small red onion, finely chopped

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one with whisked eggs, and another with crushed pretzels.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip it into the eggs, and then coat it with the crushed pretzels. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet.
Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
To make the sauce, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cheddar cheese and mustard until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add paprika, cayenne, parsley, and onion to the sauce. Mix well and season to taste.
Serve the chicken drizzled with the cheddar mustard sauce.

How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce

Serve this dish hot from the oven. Place the chicken on a plate and pour the cheesy sauce generously over the top. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple side of mashed potatoes. Enjoy the combination of crunchy chicken and creamy sauce in every bite!

How to Store Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce

If you have leftovers, let the chicken and sauce cool completely. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last about the same time. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again.

Tips to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce

For an extra crunch, crush the pretzels into smaller pieces.
You can add spices, like garlic powder or onion powder, to the flour for more flavor in the coating.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to get a nice crispy crust.

Variation

You can easily swap the cheddar cheese for other types, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a different flavor profile. Additionally, if you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.

2. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
You can use gluten-free pretzels and substitute the flour with gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to cook it within a day for the best texture.