Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Name: Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup milk

Published: November 4, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Texture: The crushed pretzels give the chicken a satisfying crunch that elevates every bite.
Flavorful Sauce: The mustard-cheddar sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the chicken.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Dish: Serve it with veggies, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this delicious twist on classic chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Proper equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even cooking and easy handling of the chicken.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.
Mixing bowls: Essential for organizing your ingredients during preparation, making the process seamless.

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

For the Sauce

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce (recipe below)

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step adds flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

To create an efficient breading station:
In one bowl, place the flour.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the Dijon mustard.
In a third bowl, add the crushed pretzels.

Step 4: Bread Chicken

Now it’s time to coat your chicken:
1. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, ensuring it’s fully covered.
2. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Finally, coat the chicken in crushed pretzels by pressing gently to help them stick.

Step 5: Bake Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

While waiting for the chicken:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until heated through.
2. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy!

Enjoy your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce as an amazing ultimate dinner option!

How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Serving your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Pair it with complementary sides and sauces to enhance the flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

With a Fresh Salad

A crisp green salad adds freshness. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

On a Bed of Rice

Serving the chicken on fluffy rice absorbs the mustard-cheddar sauce, adding great flavor to every bite.

With Steamed Vegetables

Colorful steamed vegetables like broccoli and carrots provide nutrition and a lovely contrast to the dish’s richness.

As Part of a Sandwich

Slice the cooked chicken and serve it in a toasted bun with lettuce and extra mustard-cheddar sauce for a delicious sandwich option.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

Offer various dipping sauces such as ranch or honey mustard. They add unique flavors and fun for guests.

Topped with Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado slices on top of the chicken bring richness and healthy fats that complement the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

To ensure your Pretzel Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Choose fresh chicken – Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts yield better flavor and texture.
Crush pretzels finely – The finer the pretzel crumbs, the better they will adhere to the chicken and create a delightful crust.
Don’t skip resting time – Allowing the baked chicken to rest ensures juiciness as it lets the juices redistribute.
Experiment with spices – Feel free to add your favorite spices, like paprika or cayenne pepper, for an extra kick in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Pairing your Pretzel Chicken with complementary side dishes makes for a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside crispy chicken.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory chicken.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity to balance rich flavors in the dish.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad packed with veggies is nutritious and adds texture to your plate.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements savory dishes beautifully while adding a pop of color.
Macaroni and Cheese – This classic comfort food is always a hit, especially when you want something indulgent alongside your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks struggle with getting the perfect Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken generously with salt, pepper, and spices before breading.
Not crushing pretzels finely enough: If the pretzels are not crushed well, they won’t stick properly to the chicken. Use a food processor or place them in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin until coarsely crushed.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many chicken breasts on one tray can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to space them out for even heat circulation.
Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese may not melt well, affecting your sauce’s texture. Opt for good quality shredded cheddar cheese for a smooth sauce.
Ignoring internal temperature: Undercooking chicken can be dangerous. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce in an airtight container.
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Wrap each piece of chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Frozen chicken can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover; heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bread it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What sides pair well with Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce?

This dish goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

How do I customize the mustard-cheddar sauce?

You can add spices like cayenne pepper or herbs like thyme for an extra kick of flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as you can divide portions into containers and refrigerate or freeze them for later use.

What variations can I try for this recipe?

Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack or incorporate herbs into the breading mixture for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences by changing spices or sides. This recipe is great for weeknight meals or special occasions—give it a try!

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