Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Juicy chicken coated in a crunchy pretzel crust, smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
Dredging Mixture
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Pretzel Coating
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6 ounces) For the crunchy coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Baking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter For brushing on the chicken before baking.
Cheddar Mustard Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter For the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded For the sauce.
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
- Extra crushed pretzels for texture
Instructions
Preparation
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and season with salt and pepper.
- Set up dredging bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs and Dijon in another, and crushed pretzels mixed with garlic powder and paprika in the third.
Dredging
- Dredge the chicken in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and coat thoroughly in crushed pretzels.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil or melted butter, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Making the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, cooking until thickened.
- Stir in mustards, reduce heat, and add cheese. Stir until melted, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the chicken hot, topped with cheddar mustard sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra crushed pretzels.
Notes
Flavor enhancement can be achieved by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat. Customize by substituting turkey or using gluten-free pretzels.