Crispy Pretzel Chicken with Creamy Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Idea
This crispy pretzel chicken with creamy mustard-cheddar sauce recipe is a crunchy and cheesy comfort food dish made with pretzel-coated chicken cutlets and a rich mustard-cheddar sauce. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or anytime you crave a cozy homemade recipe.
Equipment
- Food processor or rolling pin (for pretzels)
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet (or skillet)
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (salted or unsalted)
- 1 egg, beaten (or 2 tbsp Dijon mustard for coating)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying or brushing if baking)
Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dip in egg wash or brush with Dijon mustard.
- Coat with Pretzels: Press chicken firmly into crushed pretzels until evenly coated.
- Cook Chicken:Bake: Place on a parchment-lined sheet, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.Pan-Fry: Cook in skillet with olive oil, 4–5 minutes per side until golden.Air-Fry: Spray lightly with oil, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Melt butter in saucepan, whisk in flour to form roux. Add milk, stir until thickened. Remove from heat, add cheddar and mustard, whisk until smooth.
- Serve: Plate chicken hot, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Pretzel Choice: Salted pretzels add punch; unsalted allow more control.
- Flavor Boost: Try honey mustard or spicy jalapeño variations.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pretzels.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days; reheat in oven or air fryer to keep crisp.
- Pro Tip: Add cheese to sauce off-heat to prevent graininess.