Pretzel chicken is a fun and easy dish that everyone will love. The crunchy pretzel coating adds a nice twist to the juicy chicken. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Why You Will Love This Pretzel Chicken
This recipe is not only delicious but also super easy to make. It’s a great way to introduce kids to cooking, and the basic ingredients are easy to find. The crispy coating and tender chicken create a lovely texture you won’t forget. Plus, it pairs so well with creamy sauces, making it a hit at the dinner table.
How to Make Pretzel Chicken
Making pretzel chicken is a simple process. You’ll bread the chicken in flour, egg, and pretzel crumbs. Then, just pop it in the oven until it’s crispy and golden. While the chicken bakes, you can warm up a tasty sauce to serve on the side. It’s really that easy!
What You Need
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with pretzel crumbs.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with pretzel crumbs.
- Place coated chicken on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and coating is crispy.
- While the chicken is baking, heat the mustard-cheddar sauce in a small saucepan.
- Serve the pretzel chicken hot with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
How to Serve Pretzel Chicken
This pretzel chicken is great on its own, but you can make it even better with sides. Consider serving it with some fresh veggies or a simple salad. You could also pair it with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For special occasions, serve it with garlic bread and a tasty wine.
How to Store Pretzel Chicken
To keep leftovers fresh, store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Just remember to reheat it in the oven to maintain that crispy texture.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh pretzels for an extra crunch.
- Don’t skip seasoning the chicken; it adds flavor.
- For quick cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Adjust the mustard-cheddar sauce to your liking; add some spices for more flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
Variations & Swaps
- Spicy Pretzel Chicken: Add some cayenne pepper to the flour for a kick.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of pretzel crumbs.
- Better for Kids: Switch to chicken tenders for easier eating; they cook faster, too!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.
Can I freeze cooked pretzel chicken?
Absolutely! Wrap it well and freeze for up to two months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
What can I substitute for mustard-cheddar sauce?
You can use ranch dressing or any other creamy sauce you prefer.
What should I do if the coating isn’t crispy?
Make sure to pat the chicken dry before breading. Also, using a greased baking sheet helps.
Enjoy making this simple yet delightful pretzel chicken! It’s sure to be a family favorite.
Pretzel Chicken
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs Use fresh pretzels for extra crunch.
- 1/2 cup flour Can add cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- 2 pieces eggs Beaten, for breading.
- 1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce Can substitute with ranch dressing or other creamy sauces.
- to taste Salt and pepper Don’t skip seasoning to enhance flavor.
- as needed Cooking spray or oil For greasing the baking sheet.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with pretzel crumbs.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with pretzel crumbs.
- Place coated chicken on a greased baking sheet.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
- While the chicken is baking, heat the mustard-cheddar sauce in a small saucepan.
Serving
- Serve the pretzel chicken hot with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
