Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that brings together the comforting crunch of pretzels and the savory goodness of tender chicken! This Pretzel-Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce is not just a feast for the eyes but a burst of flavor with every bite. Imagine juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a crispy pretzel crust, topped with a rich and creamy cheddar-mustard sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons honey
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to make the magic happen.
- Generously season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-flavored.
- Set up a breading station: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth. In a third dish, spread out the pretzel crumbs, ready for dipping.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, tapping off any excess. Then, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, allowing it to coat evenly, before pressing it into the pretzel crumbs. Ensure a nice, even coat by gently pressing the crumbs into the chicken.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the golden chicken to a baking dish and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the heavenly cheddar-mustard sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, honey, and shredded cheddar over low heat. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, creating a delectable concoction.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and generously drizzle the luscious cheddar-mustard sauce over the top before serving. Admire the sight, because it’s as delicious as it looks!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize the seasoning in the pretzel coating to suit your taste; adding some paprika or cayenne can give it a delightful kick! For a lighter version, you might try baking the chicken instead of pan-searing it first. Just skip the skillet and pop the breaded chicken straight into the oven after coating it with the pretzel crumbs.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that perfect golden brown crust, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to the skillet. This not only gives the chicken a lovely crunch but also helps it cook evenly. If you’re unsure, a small drop of water should sizzle when added to the pan. Don’t rush the baking time; let the chicken reach an internal temperature of 165°F for the best results!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor, so they are a fantastic alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to retain the crispy texture.
Can I make the pretzel crumbs from scratch?
Yes! Simply pulse some pretzels in a food processor until finely crumbed, and you’ll have fresh pretzel crumbs ready to use.
Conclusion
This Pretzel-Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce is a delightful dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy pretzel crust, and creamy sauce creates a unique dining experience that you and your loved ones will adore. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making this comforting classic!