Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight is a crispy, flavorful dinner that transforms simple chicken into a gourmet experience without hours in the kitchen. The crunchy pretzel crust adds a salty, nutty bite while the creamy mustard-cheddar sauce brings a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken inside.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without complicated steps. With just a handful of ingredients and easy prep, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight is simple enough to make yet impressive enough to wow anyone at the table. It’s all about the crunchy coating, the cheesy sauce, and that perfect balance of flavors.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 4

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What Makes This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight Special?

• Crispy Pretzel Crust: Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels provide a salty, crunchy coating that holds up perfectly when baked.

• Creamy Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: Tangy mustard and sharp cheddar create a rich sauce that elevates simple chicken into a flavor-packed dish.

• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights or last-minute dinners.

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the combination of crispy chicken and cheesy sauce, making it a hit for any dinner table.

• Time-Saving Tip: Use store-bought pretzels and shredded cheese to cut prep time in half without compromising flavor.

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Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can also use thighs for juicier meat.

• Pretzels: Regular salted pretzels crushed into fine crumbs provide crunch and flavor. Substitute with panko if needed.

• Eggs: Acts as the binding agent to help the pretzel crumbs stick to the chicken.

• Mustard: Dijon or yellow mustard works; Dijon gives a sharper flavor.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the sauce. You can swap for Gruyere or Colby Jack for variation.

• Butter & Flour: Creates the roux for a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Milk: Whole milk makes a richer sauce; 2% works fine for a lighter option.

• Special Equipment: Baking sheet, wire rack for even cooking, medium saucepan for sauce.

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How To Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight

1. Prep the Chicken: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat 4 chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper.

2. Crush Pretzels: Place 2 cups of pretzels in a ziplock bag and crush into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. Mix with ½ teaspoon garlic powder and ½ teaspoon paprika.

3. Bread the Chicken: Beat 2 eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each chicken breast into the eggs, then coat thoroughly with pretzel crumbs. Press crumbs firmly so they adhere.

4. Bake the Chicken: Place on a wire rack over a baking sheet for even crisping. Bake 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and crust is golden brown. (Tip: avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the crust crisp.)

5. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1½ cups milk, then add 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Serve: Drizzle sauce over baked chicken or serve on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for color.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Serve immediately for best crispiness.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Sauce should be kept separately.

• Freezing: Chicken can be frozen cooked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

• Reheating Tips: Reheat in the oven rather than microwave to maintain crispiness. Warm sauce gently on the stove.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Twist: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the pretzel crumbs for heat.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels and flour substitute in the sauce.

• Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Protein Swap: Try chicken tenders or turkey cutlets.

• Seasonal Adaptation: Top with roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for extra depth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly.

2. How do I keep the pretzel crust crunchy?
   Bake on a wire rack and avoid covering the chicken while hot.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, prep and bread chicken, then refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

4. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
   Yellow mustard works fine, though flavor will be milder.

5. Can I freeze the sauce?
   Cheese sauce can be frozen, but it may separate slightly; whisk while reheating.

6. How do I make it dairy-free?
   Use non-dairy milk and vegan cheddar substitute, and swap butter for olive oil or plant-based alternative.

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Conclusion

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight is a simple yet impressive dish that combines crunchy, savory chicken with a creamy, tangy sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for families or entertaining guests. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a dinner favorite. Don’t forget to share your version with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds!

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