Pretzel-Crusted Chicken with Creamy Mustard Cheddar Sauce

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Set up three shallow bowls: one with crushed pretzels, another for the flour, and the last one for whisking together eggs and milk.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Start by dredging each piece in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with crushed pretzels.
In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Then, transfer them to the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
While the chicken bakes, make the creamy mustard cheddar sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the milk, whisk continuously until the mixture thickens. Then, lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and Dijon mustard until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Plate the cooked chicken breasts and generously pour the creamy sauce over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Best ways to enjoy it

When serving Pretzel-Crusted Chicken, consider how to elevate the dining experience. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a burst of color and flavor. Pair this delightful chicken with sides like roasted asparagus, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a crisp coleslaw to balance the richness of the sauce. For a playful touch, you might serve it with some pickles or tangy coleslaw on the side.

Storage and reheating tips

To store leftovers, place any uneaten chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, the oven is your best bet; heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best texture. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap the chicken well to prevent freezer burn.

Helpful cooking tips

To achieve the crispiest crust, ensure that your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good test is to drop a few crumbs of pretzels into the oil; they should sizzle immediately.
If you’re short on time, consider using a premade pretzel crumb, available in some grocery stores, to save yourself a step.
Make sure to let the chicken rest after baking for juicier bites.

Creative twists

Feel free to upgrade or customize this recipe to fit your taste. Try adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne to the pretzel crust for an extra kick. For a cheesy variation, fold in some cooked bacon bits into the sauce or top the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, swap pretzels with crushed gluten-free crackers or rice crisps.

FAQs

What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes for cooking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will stay juicier and offer a rich flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require a few extra minutes.