Introduction
Welcome to a comforting and delightful recipe that combines the crunch of pretzels with succulent chicken, topped off with a luscious mustard cheddar sauce! This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. The juicy chicken breasts, coated in a crispy pretzel crust, bring a satisfying crunch, while the creamy sauce adds a rich and tangy flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this savory dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Mustard Cheddar Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will create the perfect environment for your chicken to cook while keeping that crispy exterior.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated, and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- In another shallow bowl, place the crushed pretzels. This crunchy coating will give your chicken a delightful texture that you won’t be able to resist!
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the crushed pretzels, pressing firmly to ensure a good coating.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While your chicken is baking, let’s whip up the creamy mustard cheddar sauce! In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a lovely golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once everything is nicely combined and smooth.
- Once the chicken is ready, serve it hot with the delicious mustard cheddar sauce drizzled generously over the top. Enjoy every bite of this crunchy, cheesy goodness!
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper to the pretzel mixture or your sauce.
- Feel free to customize the cheese in the sauce—pepper jack could add a nice twist!
- If you have leftovers, this dish holds up well in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just reheat gently in the oven for best results!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves both marinating and frying, which are key techniques for maximizing flavor and texture. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also enhances its flavor profile. A hot skillet ensures the outside of the chicken gets crispy while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a slightly different flavor but will be just as delicious and juicy.
What can I serve with pretzel chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delightful and simple recipe for Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce that captures comfort food at its finest! The crunchy coating and the rich, creamy sauce make this dish irresistible and perfect for any occasion. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this scrumptious creation; it may just become a new family favorite!