If you’re craving a meal that’s crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting, then you absolutely must try this Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe. Picture tender chicken breasts wrapped in a crunchy, salty pretzel coating paired with a rich, creamy cheddar mustard sauce that brings the perfect zing and warmth to every bite. This dish feels like a special occasion but comes together with ingredients and steps that are anything but complicated. It’s one of those recipes that will quickly become a go-to favorite to impress family and friends or just treat yourself to a delicious homemade dinner.

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s building crunchy layers, adding savory depth, or creating that luscious sauce that ties everything together.

Chicken breasts (2 boneless, skinless): These provide a tender and juicy base for the crispy coating.
Salted pretzels (4 oz): Crushed into crumbs, they offer an unbeatable salty crunch unlike any traditional breadcrumb.
Flour (1/4 cup): Helps the coating adhere and adds a subtle crispness.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds aromatic warmth that enhances the savory flavor.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a mild sweetness and depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
Egg (1): Acts as the glue to bond the pretzel crumbs to the chicken.
Neutral oil for frying: Keeps the chicken crispy without overpowering the flavor.
Fresh parsley: A fresh, green garnish to brighten the finished dish.
Butter (1 tablespoon): The base for the creamy cheddar mustard sauce.
Flour (1 tablespoon): Used to thicken the sauce to silky perfection.
Milk (1 cup): Creates the creamy texture in the sauce.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy kick that cuts through the richness.
Cheddar cheese (8 oz shredded): Melts beautifully into the sauce, delivering bold, cheesy flavor.

How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by butterflying each chicken breast to create four thinner pieces—this ensures even cooking and a nice tender bite. Flatten the pieces gently using a mallet covered with plastic wrap so they’re all uniform in thickness. This step is key for making sure your Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe cooks perfectly through without drying out.

Step 2: Make the Pretzel Crust

Pulse the salted pretzels in your food processor until they turn into coarse crumbs. Then set up a simple dredging station: mix the flour with garlic and onion powder in one dish, whisk the egg in another, and place the pretzel crumbs in a third. This triple-step coating ensures that every piece of chicken is evenly and thoroughly coated with that crunchy pretzel crust we all love.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour, then into the egg wash, and finally coat in the pretzel crumbs. Fry the coated chicken pieces in hot neutral oil until golden brown and cooked through—about 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s perfect when you get that glorious crispy exterior paired with juicy tender chicken inside.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheddar Mustard Sauce

In a small pan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps, then stir in the Dijon mustard. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely and creates a smooth, creamy sauce with a slight thickness. This sauce is what elevates the dish from great to unforgettable.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Top each piece of Pretzel Crusted Chicken with the warm cheddar mustard sauce and sprinkle with freshly minced parsley. The sauce seeps into the crunchy crust, balancing out the saltiness of the pretzels with cheese’s rich sharpness and the mustard’s bright tang.

How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant color but also cuts through the richness with a fresh, herbaceous note. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or a few lemon wedges for an extra twist that brightens the entire plate.

Side Dishes

This chicken shines when paired with simple sides that soak up the cheese mustard sauce beautifully. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette are fantastic options. For a heartier touch, buttery garlic noodles or steamed green beans work wonders too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it open-faced on toasted baguette slices as a fancy appetizer. Or assemble the chicken with a dollop of sauce on a bed of sautéed spinach for a stylish, restaurant-worthy look. If you’re serving a crowd, prepare the chicken pieces arranged family-style with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cooled chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Keep the cheddar mustard sauce separate before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

To get that crispy crust back, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven on a wire rack so the heat circulates evenly—avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy. Warm the cheddar mustard sauce gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until smooth and hot.

FAQs

Can I bake the Pretzel Crusted Chicken instead of frying it?

Absolutely! You can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked and the crust is golden, but keep in mind frying gives that extra crispiness. Spraying the baked chicken lightly with oil helps mimic the fried texture.

What can I substitute for salted pretzels?

If pretzels aren’t on hand, crushed savory crackers or panko mixed with a bit of salt can work. However, the unique salty crunch of pretzels is what makes this dish so special.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written since pretzels and flour contain gluten. You could experiment with gluten-free pretzels and flour blends to adapt it, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Can I make the cheddar mustard sauce dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, and a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep that creamy texture.

How do I ensure the chicken cooks evenly?

Butterflying and pounding the chicken to an even thickness is key so that all pieces cook through at the same rate. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain consistent temperature.

Final Thoughts

This Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe is a wonderful way to treat yourself to something crunchy, cheesy, and packed with flavor all in one meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a go and get ready to fall in love with every bite!