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Introduction
Imagine tender chicken breasts, crispy on the outside thanks to a flavorful pretzel coating, and drenched in a rich mustard cheddar sauce. This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish combines savory flavors and delightful textures, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed pretzels mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating it completely, then into the eggs, and finally into the pretzel mixture, pressing down to adhere the pretzels.
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and drizzle olive oil over them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the mustard cheddar sauce by combining cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Drizzle the mustard cheddar sauce over the pretzel chicken and serve immediately.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, consider brining the chicken in a mixture of water and salt for a couple of hours before breading.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce for a unique twist.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect crispy coating on the chicken, it’s essential to ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated in flour, egg, and the pretzel mixture. Pressing the pretzel mixture onto the chicken helps it adhere better during baking, resulting in a satisfying crunch.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.
- What can I substitute for pretzels? Crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs can work as alternatives.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken, but the coating may lose some crunch when reheated.
Conclusion
This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce is sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation. With its delightful crunch and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a meal that will warm your heart and please your taste buds!
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