Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s comfort food with a fun twist, then Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is going to be your new favorite. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy, golden pretzel crust that’s packed with flavor and texture. The crowning glory is a luscious, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce that brings all the components together in a way that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises to wow the crowd and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right for this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is essential, and luckily, they are simple yet incredibly effective in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the basic pantry staples to the vibrant cheddar and zesty mustard, every item plays a key role.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender after baking, perfect for a crispy crust.
• 2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels: Adds the signature crunchy, salty coating essential for that crave-worthy texture.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture adhere better and creates a base for the crust.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as the glue to keep the coating intact during baking.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Mixed into the egg wash to add a subtle tang and depth to the breading.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with savory, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savory profile with a mild sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that elevates every bite.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides rich, melty goodness for the sauce.
• ½ cup milk: Base for the creamy mustard-cheddar sauce, silky and smooth.
• 1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce: The luxurious finishing touch, pairing perfectly with the crunchy chicken.

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the chicken won’t stick and cleanup is a breeze. This step sets the stage for a perfect bake, creating a crisp exterior and juicy interior.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Give your chicken a flavor boost by seasoning both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning layer ensures each bite is bursting with deliciousness even before it gets coated.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

Organize your three bowls for easy breading: one with flour, one with a mixture of beaten eggs and the Dijon mustard, and the last with the coarsely crushed pretzels. This setup makes the breading process smooth and mess-free.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast first in flour, ensuring it’s fully covered, then dip it into the egg and mustard mixture, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl. The final step is to press the chicken firmly into the crushed pretzels until completely coated. This triple-layer method ensures a crunchy, flavorful crust that bakes to perfection.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place your coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The oven’s heat transforms the pretzels into a crispy shell that locks in moisture.

Step 6: Make the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

While your chicken bakes, start your sauce by gently warming milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until heated through, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste for that perfect tangy bite.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

After baking, allow the chicken to rest a few minutes to lock in its juicy goodness before serving. Then drizzle generously with the warm mustard-cheddar sauce and enjoy every flavorful bite.

How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh, bright garnishes like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a touch of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce and crunchy crust. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar can also be a crowd-pleaser, enhancing the cheesy indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. These sides balance the richness of the main dish while adding variety to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of buttered noodles or alongside a warm grain bowl topped with fresh herbs. You could also serve it in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato for a hearty lunch or casual dinner option. The versatility of this dish makes it a perfect centerpiece for many meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the crispness of the pretzel crust and keeps the sauce fresh and delectable.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze the cooked pretzel chicken separately from the mustard-cheddar sauce in individual containers. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, while the sauce freezes well for about a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring the chicken back to its crispy glory, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until smooth. Avoid reheating the sauce with the chicken to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of mustard for the sauce?

Absolutely! While Dijon mustard offers a nice tang and sophistication, you can substitute with yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard depending on your flavor preference. Each will bring a slightly different but delicious twist to the sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and choose gluten-free pretzels. Ensure all other ingredients like mustard and Worcestershire sauce are labeled gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I cook the pretzel chicken on the stovetop instead of baking?

If you prefer, you can pan-fry the breaded chicken in a bit of oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly while maintaining the crispy crust.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is your best bet! The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked while remaining juicy and tender.

Can the mustard-cheddar sauce be made dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese that melts well. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of crunchy pretzel coating and creamy, tangy cheese sauce offers a delightful eating experience you’ll want to revisit again and again. Don’t wait to try it—you might just find yourself adding this recipe to your regular rotation of crowd-pleasing meals!

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