Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Name: Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup flour; 2 large eggs; 2 cups crushed pretzels; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup milk; Olive oil or melted butter

Published: January 6, 2026

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of crunchy pretzels and creamy mustard sauce creates a delightful flavor experience.
Versatile Meal: Serve it with veggies, salad, or on its own; it’s perfect for any occasion.
Kid-Friendly: Kids will enjoy the fun texture and cheesy taste, making it a great option for picky eaters.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you will need to prepare the Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Mixing bowls
Skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking by providing a flat surface for baking the chicken.
Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing dredging stations for coating the chicken properly.
Skillet: Perfect for achieving that golden-brown crust when cooking the chicken on the stove.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt & pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6 ounces)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons flour
– 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Extra crushed pretzels for texture

How to Make Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Stations

In three separate bowls, place:
Flour in the first bowl.
Beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard in the second bowl.
Crushed pretzels combined with garlic powder and smoked paprika in the third bowl.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken Breasts

Take each chicken breast and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip it into the egg mixture until fully coated.
Finally, coat thoroughly with crushed pretzels to create a crispy layer.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the coated chicken on a lined baking sheet.
Brush each piece lightly with olive oil or melted butter for added crispiness.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Step 5: Sear in Skillet

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Make Cheddar Mustard Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Whisk in flour until smooth; gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened.
Stir in both mustards followed by shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve hot chicken topped generously with cheddar mustard sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley and additional crushed pretzels if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously crispy pretzel crusted chicken!

How to Serve Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the chicken’s richness.
Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the savory flavors of the chicken.

Add Some Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and season with salt for a simple yet elegant side.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant color and nutrition alongside the crispy chicken.

Serve with Comforting Starches

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the cheddar mustard sauce.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a light base for this hearty meal.

Include Dipping Sauces

Honey Mustard Dip: A sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the chicken.
Buffalo Sauce: For those who like a kick, buffalo sauce adds heat and flavor to each bite.

How to Perfect Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Creating perfection in your Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

Use fresh chicken breasts: Fresh meat ensures better flavor and tenderness compared to frozen varieties.
Crush pretzels finely: Finer crumbs create a more even coating that adheres well to the chicken.
Preheat your oven properly: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated helps achieve that golden crust faster.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Giving space between pieces allows for even cooking and crispiness.
Let it rest before serving: Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking retains moisture and flavor.
Experiment with cheese types: Try different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for varied taste profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

This crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some great options.

Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful contrast, especially when grilled or roasted.
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries balances the savory pretzel crust beautifully.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides a nutritious option alongside the main dish.
French Fries: Classic crispy fries are always a hit and can be seasoned as you like for added flavor.
Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini drizzled in olive oil makes for a healthy and tasty side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken before coating it can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper for a tasty result.
Inconsistent chicken thickness: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, they may cook unevenly. Pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Not preheating the oven: Failure to preheat the oven can result in longer cooking times. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking from the start.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many chicken pieces on one baking sheet can cause steaming instead of crisping. Space them out for optimal crunchiness.
Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can lead to undercooking or overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake on a lined baking sheet until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to make crispy pretzel crusted chicken?

To achieve crispy pretzel crusted chicken, ensure you coat the chicken evenly with crushed pretzels and bake at a high temperature for optimal crunch.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of pretzels?

Yes, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs for crushed pretzels, but you will lose that unique crunch and flavor that pretzels provide.

How do I customize the cheddar mustard sauce?

You can customize the sauce by adding ingredients like honey for sweetness or hot sauce for a kick. Feel free to experiment with flavors!

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time to prepare Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. This dish offers great versatility; you can serve it with various sides or customize it with different sauces. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

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