Pretzel-crusted chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With a crispy, golden crust made from pretzels and cheddar cheese, this chicken is both flavorful and satisfying. It’s an easy recipe that families can whip up on busy weeknights or serve when hosting friends for a cozy meal.

Why You Will Love This Pretzel-Crusted Chicken

This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick and tasty family meal. It uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The preparation is minimal, making it beginner-friendly. Plus, the combination of tangy mustard and creamy cheese brings out rich flavors that are simply irresistible.

How to Make Pretzel-Crusted Chicken

Making this chicken is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll coat the chicken breasts first in a creamy mustard mixture, then in a crunchy pretzel and cheese blend. Finally, you bake them until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. It’s an uncomplicated method that yields delicious results every time.

What You Need

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups crushed pretzels
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Olive oil for baking

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix the crushed pretzels and shredded cheddar cheese.
In another bowl, combine Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken breast into the mustard mixture, followed by the pretzel and cheese mixture, ensuring it is well-coated.
Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet drizzled with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is crispy.
Serve warm with additional mustard-cheddar sauce on the side.

How to Serve Pretzel-Crusted Chicken

This chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad. For a cozy touch, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a warm pasta dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, and even game days. Don’t forget to offer extra mustard-cheddar sauce for dipping—it’s a hit!

How to Store Pretzel-Crusted Chicken

To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain that crispy coating.

Recipe Tips

Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for the best flavor and texture.
For extra crunch, consider air-frying the coated chicken instead of baking.
Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes, since oven temperatures can vary.
If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to reduce the amount of Dijon mustard.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.

Variations & Swaps

For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper to the pretzel coating.
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer flavor and tenderness.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, use panko breadcrumbs instead of pretzels.
Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a different cheesy experience.
Try wrapping the coated chicken with bacon for a smoky twist.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just let it come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Can I freeze the chicken?
Absolutely, you can freeze the uncooked coated chicken. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped. When you’re ready to cook it, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the pretzel-crusted chicken in the oven at 350°F to maintain its crispy texture. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the crust soggy.

Can I substitute the Dijon mustard?
Yes! You can use yellow mustard or even honey mustard for a sweeter flavor. Adjust the amount of honey if you’re looking for a balance in sweetness.

What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken goes great with roasted vegetables, a creamy coleslaw, or even a side of rice. You can also serve a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the chicken.