Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Crunchy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, the Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish combines the delightful crunch of pretzels with a creamy cheddar mustard sauce that will make your taste buds sing. With minimal effort, you can serve a meal that is sure to impress your family or guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time and straightforward steps, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy pretzels and creamy cheddar mustard sauce delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with your favorite sides, this dish suits various tastes and occasions.
• Kid-Friendly: The crunchy texture and cheesy sauce are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
• Satisfying and Filling: Packed with protein from chicken and rich flavors, this dish will keep everyone satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having everything ready will streamline your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the chicken evenly while allowing it to become crispy.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing dredging stations to ensure an even coating on the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when preparing the sauce.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Cheddar Mustard Sauce

• 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

Garnish

• 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 Breasts

Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Stations

Prepare three bowls:
1. Place flour in one bowl.
2. In another bowl, beat eggs together with Dijon mustard.
3. In a third bowl, mix crushed pretzels with garlic powder and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast in flour first, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg mixture before pressing firmly into the crushed pretzels until fully coated.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange coated chicken on a lined baking sheet. Brush each piece lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through until golden brown.

Step 5: Sear for Extra Crispiness

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

Step 6: Make the Cheddar Mustard Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until combined; gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Mustards

Stir in both mustards followed by shredded cheese. Reduce heat and mix until cheese is completely melted. Season sauce with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Serve crispy chicken hot from the oven topped generously with cheddar mustard sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra crushed pretzels if desired for added crunch. Enjoy!

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

Serving Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce can elevate your weeknight dinner into a delightful experience. Here are some creative suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the chicken on a large platter, drizzled with the cheddar mustard sauce and garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Sandwich Delight

• Slice the chicken and serve it in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and extra mustard sauce for a delicious sandwich option.

Salad Topper

• Cut the chicken into strips and place over a fresh garden salad for added protein and crunch.

Family Style

• Offer the chicken alongside bowls of dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ for a fun, interactive meal where everyone can customize their bites.

Meal Prep Option

• Pack individual servings of chicken with the sauce in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

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

Perfecting this dish is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese will enhance flavors significantly compared to older or pre-packaged options.

• Don’t Skip the Dredging Process: Properly dredging in flour, egg, and pretzels helps create that desired crunchy texture on the outside of the chicken.

• Check Internal Temperature: Using a meat thermometer to confirm that chicken reaches 165°F guarantees it’s fully cooked while remaining juicy inside.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to customize seasonings in both the pretzel coating and cheese sauce to suit your taste preferences for added flavor depth.

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

Complementing your Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with suitable side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort and balance to your crispy chicken dish.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color, nutrition, and flavor contrast to the plate.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, making it an ideal accompaniment alongside rich chicken flavors.

4. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory chicken while being healthy and satisfying.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to your meal.

6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side that pairs well with crispy dishes, adding sweetness and texture.

7. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide crunchiness that complements the main dish nicely.

8. Macaroni Salad: This creamy pasta salad adds a rich side option that kids especially love, rounding out your family-friendly dinner perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Over-seasoning the chicken: While seasoning is important, too much salt or pepper can overpower the dish. Start with a little and adjust as needed after cooking.
• Not crushing pretzels enough: If the pretzels are too large, they won’t adhere well to the chicken. Ensure you crush them into small, fine pieces for the best coating.
• Skipping the dredging process: Dredging in flour, egg, and pretzel crumbs is crucial for a crispy texture. Don’t skip this step to ensure your chicken has that perfect crunch.
• Under-cooking or over-cooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked without becoming dry.
• Not allowing the sauce to thicken properly: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the chicken. Make sure to cook it until it reaches your desired thickness before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

• To freeze, wrap each piece of chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm; this may soften the crust slightly.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and reheat chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce:

What is the best way to serve Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe?

Serve this dish hot with extra cheddar mustard sauce drizzled over the top. Pair it with sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Can I make Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pretzels and flour as substitutes. The recipe will still deliver great flavor and texture.

How do I customize my Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe?

Feel free to add herbs or spices into the pretzel coating or switch up the cheese variety based on your preference!

What sides pair well with Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with roasted potatoes, coleslaw, or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite spices or sides!