Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, a crunchy pretzel crust, and a creamy, tangy cheese sauce. The salty crunch of crushed pretzels replaces traditional breadcrumbs, creating a unique texture that pairs perfectly with the rich mustard-infused cheddar sauce. This recipe is ideal for a satisfying family dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
Place the flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs with Dijon mustard until smooth. In a third bowl, add the crushed pretzels.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg and mustard mixture, then press it firmly into the crushed pretzels to fully coat the surface.
4. Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
5. Make the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Add Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with the mustard-cheddar sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
Serving Ideas
Pretzel chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad. The sauce also works beautifully as a dip for fries or steamed vegetables.