If you’re looking for a way to elevate your usual chicken dinner, this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is the answer. It offers a wonderful combination of crunchy, salty pretzel crust and a rich, tangy cheese sauce that adds a whole new layer of flavor. This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare but delivers on texture and taste, making it perfect for both family meals and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it transforms everyday chicken into something special with minimal effort. The pretzel crust provides an irresistible crunch, while the creamy mustard-cheddar sauce offers a tangy, smooth contrast. Baking instead of frying keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe is straightforward, even for beginners.
Ingredients
for the chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
salt and pepper to taste
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
for the mustard-cheddar sauce
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
salt and pepper to taste
tip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For a cheesy surprise, carefully cut a pocket into each breast and stuff with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Set up three bowls for breading: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels.
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Coat each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the pretzel crumbs until fully coated.
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Place the coated chicken breasts on the baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
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While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce. Heat milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warm. Gradually whisk in the cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. Serve with the mustard-cheddar sauce drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping.
Variations
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Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the pretzel crust for an herby twist.
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Include spicy mustard or a dash of hot sauce in the cheese sauce for heat.
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Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
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Use gluten-free pretzels and flour for a gluten-free version.
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Stuff the chicken with cooked bacon or ham alongside the cheese for extra flavor.
Heating and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the crust soggy. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I prepare this recipe without stuffing the chicken?
Yes, stuffing is optional. The chicken is delicious with or without cheese inside.
What if I don’t have pretzels?
Crushed breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used as alternatives but will change the flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives, and skip the cheese stuffing if needed.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a little longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and tend to be juicier.
Is it possible to fry the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, but baking provides a healthier option and a less greasy crust.
How do I prevent the pretzel coating from falling off?
Make sure to press the pretzels firmly onto the chicken and do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What side dishes go well with this?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement this dish beautifully.
Conclusion
Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that elevate a simple chicken dinner into something special. Whether for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. The crunchy pretzel crust paired with creamy, tangy sauce hits all the right notes for comfort and satisfaction. Give it a try, and you might just have found a new favorite.
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Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A crunchy pretzel-crusted chicken baked to golden perfection and served with a rich, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce. A simple yet impressive dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Optionally stuff with cheddar cheese.
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Prepare breading stations: flour, egg + Dijon, crushed pretzels.
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Coat chicken in flour, then egg mixture, then pretzels.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
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Heat milk, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce; whisk in cheese until smooth. Season.
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Serve chicken with sauce drizzled or on the side.
Notes
- To keep the crust crunchy on reheating, warm in the oven instead of the microwave.
- Gluten-free option available by substituting pretzels and flour.
- Add herbs or spices to customize flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
