Delicious Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe
The aroma of crisp, golden-brown chicken layered with salty pretzels and a creamy, tangy cheddar mustard sauce wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water. The pretzel crusted chicken with cheddar mustard sauce isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that transforms a simple dinner into something extraordinary.
Imagine gathering around the table with family or friends, sharing laughs and stories, all while savouring every bite of this savory delight. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish strikes the perfect balance between fancy and comforting that everyone loves.
Why You'll Love This Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
- This incredible Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean and tender, these chicken breasts provide the perfect meaty base for this dish.
15 ounces salted pretzels (about 3 cups) – These not only give a delightful crunch but also a salty twist that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
½ teaspoon paprika – A pinch of this spice adds warmth and color to your chicken.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients used.
2 eggs – These will help the pretzel crust stick beautifully to the chicken, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
Vegetable oil for frying – A little oil helps to achieve that perfect crispy texture on the chicken.
2 tablespoons butter – This adds richness to the cheddar mustard sauce, making it oh-so-luxurious.
2 tablespoons flour – A crucial ingredient for creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
2 cups milk – Use whole milk for a creamier texture in the sauce; it’s worth it!
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Go for sharp cheddar to increase the flavor impact of your sauce.
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard – This mustard brings a delightful tang and pairs beautifully with cheese.
½ teaspoon paprika – A repeat here ensures that flavor carries through the sauce just like it does with the chicken.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – This adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.
¼ cup flat leaf parsley leaves, chopped – Fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of color.
¼ small red onion, finely chopped – A little onion enhances the flavor complexity and adds some crunch.
How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, take your chicken breasts and pound them to even thickness, which helps them cook uniformly. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and paprika to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create a mini assembly line for easy breading! In one bowl, add about a cup of flour. In a second bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them well. Finally, crush the pretzels into coarse crumbs in a third bowl. This will be the breading that makes our chicken irresistibly crunchy.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, tap off the excess, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the crushed pretzel crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure a solid layer sticks. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment or lightly greased.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Once the oven is ready, bake the chicken for approximately 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The pretzel coating should be beautifully crispy.
Step 5: Make the Cheddar Mustard Sauce
While the chicken bakes, it’s sauce time! In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until it thickens slightly. Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and whole grain mustard until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Mix in the paprika, cayenne, parsley, and finely chopped red onion into the sauce, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Once the chicken is done, serve it drizzled with the luscious cheddar mustard sauce, garnishing with additional parsley if you like.
There you have it—an irresistible Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with your loved ones, and don’t forget to take a picture for the ‘gram—it’s definitely an Instagram-worthy dish!
You Must Know About Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
- This showstopping Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce Cooking Process
Start by pounding the chicken for even cooking. While the chicken rests, prepare the three-step breading station. Finally, bake the coated chicken while whisking together the delicious cheddar mustard sauce for a streamlined prep and cooking experience.
Add Your Touch to Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Feel free to swap out the sharp cheddar for a creamier cheese like gouda or Monterey jack. Add a bit of spice by mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes into the breading or the sauce for a zesty kick.
Storing & Reheating Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place the chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
- This professional-quality Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Experiencing the delighted reactions of friends and family when they first bite into this dish is what makes cooking so satisfying. Their praises felt like a standing ovation every time I served it, and I couldn’t help but feel like a culinary rock star!
FAQs About Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
What is Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce?
Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce is a delicious twist on traditional breaded chicken, where juicy chicken breasts are coated with crushed pretzels for added texture and flavor. This dish is then topped with a creamy cheddar mustard sauce that delivers a perfect balance of sharpness and richness. It’s an impressive meal that is easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
How do I make Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce?
To make Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce, begin by preparing chicken breasts, ensuring they are pounded to an even thickness. Then create a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and crushed pretzels. Dredge the chicken, bake until golden, and while it cooks, whip up the luxurious cheddar mustard sauce. Finally, drizzle the sauce over the chicken for a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
What can I serve with Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce?
Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables for a nutritious option, or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting feel. A simple green salad or crispy coleslaw can also complement the richness of the dish, making for a well-rounded meal. The key is to keep the sides vibrant and fresh to balance the flavors.
Can I make Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce in advance. The chicken can be breaded and stored in the refrigerator up to a day ahead, and then you can bake it just before serving. The cheddar mustard sauce can also be made in advance and warmed up when you’re ready to serve. Just ensure to keep everything tightly sealed for maximum freshness.
Conclusion for Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Incorporating simple ingredients to create an unforgettable dish, Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce is perfect for every occasion. Its delightful combination of textures from the pretzel crust and the creamy, tangy sauce makes it a standout meal. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to elicit rave reviews, making it a go-to in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy crafting this delicious dish and watch your loved ones savor every bite!
Pretzel Crusted Chicken With Cheddar Mustard Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound chicken to even thickness, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Set up breading station: flour in one bowl, whisked eggs in another, crushed pretzels in a third.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, and coat in pretzels. Place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F or 75°C).
- For the sauce: Heat butter in a skillet, add flour, and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in mustard and cheese until melted.
- Add paprika, cayenne, parsley, and onion. Mix well and season to taste.
- Serve chicken drizzled with sauce.
