Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

If you love crispy fried chicken but want something unique, this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is going to be your new favorite. The pretzel coating adds an irresistible crunch and salty flavor, while the rich mustard-cheddar sauce takes it to the next level. It’s a crowd-pleasing dinner that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you want to impress without too much effort, this recipe combines comfort food with a little flair.

Why You’ll Love Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

• Crispy texture – crushed pretzels create the perfect crunchy coating.
• Savory sauce – creamy cheddar cheese with tangy mustard balances the flavors.
• Family-friendly – loved by both kids and adults.
• Easy and quick – ready in under an hour with simple pantry ingredients.

What Is Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce?

Pretzel chicken is simply chicken breast coated in crushed pretzels instead of breadcrumbs. It bakes (or fries) to a crunchy, golden finish. The mustard-cheddar sauce is a velvety cheese sauce infused with tangy Dijon mustard, giving the dish a bold and delicious kick. Together, they create the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients (Exact)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups pretzels, finely crushed
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking) or neutral oil for frying

For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (optional, for extra tang)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

1. Prepare the chicken – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Bread the chicken – Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat fully in crushed pretzels.
3. Cook the chicken – Place on a greased baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. (Alternatively, pan-fry in oil until crispy.)
4. Make the sauce – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve – Place chicken on a plate, drizzle generously with mustard-cheddar sauce, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Add spice: Stir a little cayenne pepper into the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pretzels and flour for a GF-friendly version.
• Extra crunch: Mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the pretzels for more texture.
• Pair it up: Serve with roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or steamed veggies.

FAQs

Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts?
Yes! Pretzel-coated chicken tenders make a fun appetizer or kid-friendly meal.

How do I crush pretzels easily?
Place pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin, or pulse in a food processor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently on low heat, whisking in a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is crispy, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a fun twist on classic chicken that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is always a winner.