Name: Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 5-ounce bag salted pretzels (about 3 cups); ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 eggs; Vegetable oil (for frying); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ cup flat leaf parsley leaves, chopped; ¼ small red onion, finely chopped

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 6 reviews

If you are craving a dinner that is both irresistibly crunchy and bursting with flavor, the Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Recipe is here to wow your taste buds. This dish brings together crunchy, golden pretzel crusted chicken breasts paired with a luscious, tangy cheddar-mustard sauce that is creamy and comforting. Ready in just about 30 minutes, it combines simple ingredients in a spectacular way that feels gourmet yet approachable enough for a weeknight meal. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a go-to recipe you’ll be excited to share with your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three flat oval pieces of food coated in a light brown crumb mix with visible oats textured on a small white plate on the left, and three similar pieces already coated and placed on a dark metal baking tray on the right. Above the plate, there is a white bowl with a light yellow liquid, possibly an egg wash. The setting is on a white marbled surface with some green parsley leaves near the top right and bottom of the image. A grey cloth is partly under the plate, adding softness to the scene. The light is bright and natural, highlighting the textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building that perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and flavor. From the salty pretzels providing the crust to the sharp cheddar in the sauce, each element is essential in crafting this memorable meal.

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless): The star protein, butterflied and pounded to tender thin cutlets for even cooking.
1 5-ounce bag salted pretzels (about 3 cups): Crushed finely, they create the signature crispy, salty coating.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky warmth to the crust and sauce.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
2 eggs: Whisked with a splash of water, they help the pretzel crust adhere beautifully.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Ensures the chicken gets that perfect golden-brown finish.
2 Tablespoons butter: The base for the creamy cheddar-mustard sauce.
2 Tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
2 cups milk: Creates the silky body of the sauce.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Offers rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture for the sauce.
2 Tablespoons whole grain mustard: Gives the sauce a lovely zing and depth.
½ teaspoon paprika: A second sprinkle of smoky warmth in the sauce.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the flavors.
1/4 cup flat leaf parsley leaves (a generous handful, chopped): Fresh and vibrant, perfect for garnish.
1/4 small red onion (finely chopped): Adds a little sharpness and color contrast for serving.

How to Make Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by butterflying each chicken breast to create two thinner pieces out of each, totaling four thin cutlets. The aim is to get them about 1/4-inch thick, so use a mallet to gently flatten them. This ensures quick, even cooking and helps the pretzel crust stick beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Pretzel Crust

Put the pretzels into a food processor and grind until you achieve fine crumbs. Spread these crumbs into a shallow dish, and mix in the paprika along with salt and pepper to season. This crunchy crust will give your chicken that signature crispy bite everyone loves. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs with a splash of water to create the perfect coating base.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet to about 1/4 inch depth over medium-high heat. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg wash, then press into the pretzel crumb mixture, making sure every nook is covered. Fry in batches if needed so the chicken remains evenly cooked and crisp. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes, until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through but still juicy inside.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheddar-Mustard Sauce

While the chicken fries, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook it gently for about a minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar, whole grain mustard, paprika, and cayenne pepper, then taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be velvety and rich, perfectly complementing the crunchy chicken.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Arrange the crispy pretzel crusted chicken on plates and drizzle generously with the cheddar-mustard sauce. Sprinkle chopped parsley and finely diced red onion on top to add freshness and a pop of color that makes this dish look as fantastic as it tastes.

How to Serve Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Recipe

Four pieces of crispy fried chicken with a golden brown crunchy coating are placed on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each piece is drizzled with a light beige creamy sauce and sprinkled with small bits of purple onion and green parsley. One piece is sliced, showing a white interior. Around the chicken, there are lemon wedges, a silver fork resting on the plate beside the sliced piece, a knife with a wooden handle next to a piece of chicken, a small white bowl filled with chopped purple onion, another white bowl with chopped green herbs, and a white bowl of creamy sauce with a spoon. Some parsley leaves and onion pieces are scattered on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley and finely chopped red onion adds vibrant color and just the right pop of fresh flavor to balance the dish. Plus, these garnishes create a beautiful presentation that makes your meal feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Serve this crispy pretzel crusted chicken alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf to soak up the luscious cheddar-mustard sauce. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables complements the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more casual feast, slice the chicken and serve it as an open-faced sandwich on a toasted bun with leafy greens and a drizzle of sauce. Or, transform it into a hearty salad topper with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and toasted nuts for added crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the crispness of the chicken crust and preserves the creamy texture of the sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken breast pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the sauce as the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to revive the crunch without drying it out. Warm the cheddar-mustard sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until smooth and heated through, then drizzle it over the chicken right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a great tangy base, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well to keep the sauce creamy.

Is it possible to bake the pretzel crusted chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier option. Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through. You may lose a bit of the deep-fried crispiness, but it still tastes fantastic.

Can I prepare the pretzel coating in advance?

Definitely. You can crush the pretzels and mix in the seasonings ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container, and the coating will stay fresh until you’re ready to use it.

What other proteins work well with this pretzel crust and sauce?

This crust and sauce combo works beautifully with pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even firm fish fillets like cod or halibut. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.

How spicy is the cheddar-mustard sauce?

The cayenne pepper adds just a subtle hint of heat that balances nicely with the sharp cheddar and mustard flavors. If you prefer less spice, simply omit the cayenne — the sauce will still be flavorful and creamy.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe the Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that makes dinner feel like a celebration any night of the week. The satisfying crunch, the creamy tang of the sauce, and the ease of preparation all come together to create a dish you will want to make again and again. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a household favorite!