Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—this Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is the perfect comfort food with a twist. The crunchy pretzel coating adds a salty, satisfying crunch, while the creamy honey mustard sauce balances it out with tangy sweetness. Whether for a fun dinner or chopped into a wrap for lunch, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pretzels and honey mustard creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, in wraps, or even over salads.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy coating makes this chicken appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Sauce: You can prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance for added convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor (or zip-lock bag and rolling pin)
• Shallow dishes (3)
• Heavy-based pan
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly turns pretzels into crumbs for that perfect crunchy coating.
• Shallow dishes: Ideal for setting up a breading station to keep things organized.
• Heavy-based pan: Ensures even cooking and prevents burning while frying.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 5 tbsp full-fat mayonnaise
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp classic yellow mustard
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/8 tsp onion powder
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder

For the Chicken:

• 100g / 3.5 oz pretzels
• 2 chicken breasts (250g / 9 oz each)
• 35g / 1/4 cup plain flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tsp paprika
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 180ml / 3/4 cup vegetable oil (or as needed)

• Flaky sea salt, to serve
• Finely diced fresh chives, to serve

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How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Adjust the balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess to your taste. Set aside or refrigerate until needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Crumbs

Place pretzels in a food processor and pulse to a coarse crumb. Alternatively, use a zip-lock bag and rolling pin to crush them.

Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Stations

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed pretzels. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Divide this spice mix—half goes into the flour, half into the pretzels.

Step 4: Cut the Chicken Breasts

Horizontally slice each chicken breast to create four even-sized cutlets.

Step 5: Bread the Chicken Cutlets

Dredge each cutlet in flour first. Then dip in egg before coating thoroughly in the pretzel mixture. Press down to ensure pretzels stick well. Place prepared cutlets on a tray.

Step 6: Heat Oil for Frying

Add enough oil to your heavy-based pan to coat the bottom. Heat over medium until it reaches about 180°C / 350°F; you can test it by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle.

Step 7: Fry the Cutlets

Fry two cutlets at a time for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a wire rack afterward. Add more oil if needed before frying remaining cutlets.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and fresh chives. Enjoy with the honey mustard sauce either drizzled over or served on the side for dipping.

How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Serving Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A light and refreshing salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes complements the crunchy chicken.

In a Wrap

• Slice the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce, avocado, and additional honey mustard sauce for a delicious lunch option.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains soak up any extra sauce, adding flavor to each bite.

With Crispy Fries

• Pairing with crispy fries adds an indulgent touch. Consider sweet potato fries for a sweet contrast.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Lightly steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables offer a nutritious balance to the rich flavors of the chicken.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for a fun appetizer. Serve with honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Perfect Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

To achieve the best results when making Pretzel Crusted Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and quality pretzels make a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Crush pretzels properly: For optimal crunchiness, ensure pretzels are crushed to both coarse and fine crumbs.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep oil at 180°C / 350°F while frying to achieve that golden-brown crust without greasy results.
• Press down firmly: When coating the chicken with pretzel crumbs, press down firmly to ensure they stick well during frying.
• Use a wire rack: After frying, place chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep it crispy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; adding cayenne pepper can give an extra kick.

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Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Pretzel Crusted Chicken enhances your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this delectable dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comforting richness that balances the crunchiness of the chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, making it an ideal contrast to the warm chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with honey mustard sauce.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet sauce and crunchy chicken.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These provide natural sweetness and are nutritious; you can top them with a little butter or cinnamon for added flavor.
6. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers a refreshing bite that complements the savory elements of the dish.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in vinaigrette makes for a satisfying and colorful side full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a delicious outcome.

• Not seasoning the flour: Many skip adding spices to the flour. This leads to bland chicken. Always mix in seasonings for enhanced flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many cutlets at once can lower the oil temperature. This results in greasy chicken. Fry in smaller batches for a crispy texture.
• Neglecting to press the pretzels: Failing to firmly press pretzel crumbs onto the chicken can cause the coating to fall off during cooking. Ensure you press down well for adherence.
• Skipping the sauce adjustments: Some may overlook adjusting the honey mustard sauce’s sweetness or tanginess. Taste and tweak it according to your preference for optimal balance.
• Using stale pretzels: Using old pretzels can lead to a less crunchy coating. Freshly crushed pretzels offer a better texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the honey mustard sauce separate to maintain its freshness.

Freezing Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

• Freeze cutlets in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label and date your bags to keep track of storage time.

Reheating Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place cutlets on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, reheat over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crisp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pretzels and alternative flours like almond or coconut flour for the coating.

Can I bake Pretzel Crusted Chicken instead of frying?

Baking is possible, but it may not achieve the same crispy texture as frying. For best results, use a high temperature and spray with oil.

How do I store leftover honey mustard sauce?

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What should I serve with Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce?

This dish pairs well with salads, fries, or even wrapped in tortillas for lunches.

Can I customize the spice mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to tailor it to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is not only crispy and juicy but also versatile enough for various meals. Whether served as dinner or sliced into wraps for lunch, this recipe allows for customization based on your preferences. Give it a try and see how delicious comfort food can get!