Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: Crispy Comfort Food with Bold Flavor

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is the kind of meal that instantly satisfies cravings for something crispy, cheesy, and deeply comforting. Juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy pretzel crust are baked until golden and served with a silky mustard-cheddar sauce that brings sharpness, richness, and balance to every bite.

This dish combines familiar flavors in an elevated way. Pretzels add a salty crunch that breadcrumbs simply can’t match, while the creamy cheese sauce delivers indulgence without overpowering the chicken. The result is a dinner that feels indulgent enough for the weekend but easy enough for a weeknight.

Whether served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, pretzel chicken is a recipe that earns repeat requests.

---

Why Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Works So Well

Pretzels bring more than crunch — they bring seasoned saltiness and structure. Unlike breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels hold their texture during baking and develop a deep golden color without frying.

The mustard-cheddar sauce adds contrast:

• Sharp cheddar for richness
• Dijon mustard for tang and balance
• Milk and butter for smooth, pourable texture

Together, they transform simple baked chicken into a restaurant-style entrée.

---

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Pretzels, finely crushed
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Black pepper

For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Dijon mustard
• Salt

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
2. Prepare the Breading Station
   Place flour in one bowl. Beat eggs in a second bowl. Combine crushed pretzels with garlic powder, paprika, and pepper in a third bowl.
3. Bread the Chicken
   Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into eggs, then press firmly into pretzel crumbs until fully coated.
4. Bake the Chicken
   Place chicken on the wire rack. Bake for 22–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
5. Make the Sauce
   Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
6. Add Cheese and Mustard
   Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard until melted and creamy.
7. Serve
   Spoon mustard-cheddar sauce over sliced pretzel chicken and serve immediately.

---

Pro Tips for Perfect Pretzel Chicken

• Crush pretzels finely for even coating
• Use a wire rack for crispier results
• Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing
• Add cheese gradually to avoid grainy sauce

---

Variations

Air Fryer Pretzel Chicken
Cook at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway.

Spicy Pretzel Chicken
Add cayenne or hot mustard to the sauce.

Honey Mustard Version
Stir a tablespoon of honey into the sauce for sweetness.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted broccoli or green beans
• Crisp apple slaw
• Soft pretzel rolls on the side

---

Comfort Food Inspiration

Pretzel-crusted dishes draw inspiration from German and pub-style cooking, where salty breads and rich sauces reign supreme. This chicken version captures that cozy, indulgent spirit while staying approachable and home-friendly.

---

Storage & Reheating

• Store chicken and sauce separately
• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat chicken in oven to maintain crispness

---

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a crave-worthy comfort food classic with modern appeal. Crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and bold flavor to the table every time.