Why Make This Recipe
Pretzel chicken is a fun and tasty twist on traditional fried chicken. The crunchy pretzel coating adds a unique flavor that kids and adults alike will love. It’s a simple dish that can make any weeknight dinner feel special. Plus, it’s baked, making it a healthier option!
How to Make Pretzel Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels.
- Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the crushed pretzels.
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- While the chicken is baking, in a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese with a bit of mustard for a dipping sauce.
- Serve the pretzel chicken hot with the mustard-cheddar sauce on the side.
How to Serve Pretzel Chicken
You can serve pretzel chicken hot right out of the oven. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. The mustard-cheddar dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the dish. Feel free to present it with some crispy fries or a baked potato for a heartier meal.
How to Store Pretzel Chicken
To save leftover pretzel chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It will last for about 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven for the best texture.
Tips to Make Pretzel Chicken
- Make sure to crush the pretzels finely for a better coating.
- For extra flavor, add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the flour mixture.
- If you want a bit of heat, mix some cayenne pepper into the egg or mustard mixture.
Variation
You can easily switch up the flavors by using different types of mustard or adding herbs to the pretzel coating. For a cheesy kick, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese into the crushed pretzels.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and coating.
2. Can I use whole pretzels instead of crushed?
Yes, but crushed pretzels create a better coating. If you use whole pretzels, make sure they are finely crushed to stick to the chicken.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This can help the coating stick better and enhance the flavor.
Pretzel Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed Make sure pretzels are crushed finely for better coating.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Season with salt and pepper.
- 2 large eggs Beaten and mixed with Dijon mustard.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For dipping sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil For baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels.
Coating Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the crushed pretzels.
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Serving
- While the chicken is baking, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese with a bit of mustard for a dipping sauce.
- Serve the pretzel chicken hot with the mustard-cheddar sauce on the side.