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. Ideal for a fun dinner or sliced into a wrap for lunch!

Why You’ll Love This Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy pretzels and creamy honey mustard creates a mouthwatering taste that will please everyone.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, in wraps, or as part of a salad for lunch or dinner.
• Kid-Friendly: The crunchy texture and sweet sauce make it a hit with kids, encouraging them to eat their chicken.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make the sauce ahead of time for a quick dinner option during busy weekdays.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly turns pretzels into crumbs for an even coating.
• Shallow dishes: Allow easy dredging of chicken cutlets in flour, egg, and pretzel crumbs without mess.
• Heavy-based frying pan: Ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.

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 according to your taste preferences. Set aside or refrigerate until needed.

Step 2: Crush Pretzels

Place pretzels in a food processor and pulse them into coarse crumbs. Alternatively, use a zip-lock bag and rolling pin to crush them if you don’t have a food processor.

Step 3: Set Up Dredging Stations

Set up three shallow dishes: one filled 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 should go into the flour and half into the pretzels.

Step 4: Prepare Chicken Cutlets

Horizontally slice each chicken breast into four even-sized cutlets. Dredge each cutlet in flour first; then dip in egg; finally coat thoroughly in the pretzel mixture. Press down on the pretzels to ensure they stick well. Place the prepared cutlets on a tray.

Step 5: Heat Oil

Add enough oil to cover the bottom of a heavy-based pan and heat over medium until it reaches 180°C / 350°F. You can check by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 6: Fry 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. If necessary, top up and reheat the oil before frying any remaining cutlets.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with flaky sea salt sprinkled on top and fresh chives for garnish. Enjoy your Pretzel Crusted Chicken either drizzled with honey mustard sauce 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 not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various serving options that can cater to different tastes.

For a Classic Dinner Plate

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the crispy chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables – A mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrition.
• Garden Salad – Fresh greens tossed with your favorite dressing provide a refreshing contrast.

In a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps – Slice the chicken and wrap it in tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and honey mustard sauce for a quick lunch.
• Pita Bread – Use pita bread for a Mediterranean twist; add cucumber and tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.

As Sliders

• Mini Buns – Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and serve on slider buns with pickles and mustard.
• Sweet Hawaiian Rolls – The sweetness of these rolls complements the saltiness of the pretzel crust.

With Dipping Options

• Honey Mustard Sauce – Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the flavor.
• BBQ Sauce – A smoky BBQ sauce provides a bold alternative for those who love a kick.

How to Perfect Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

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

• bold Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken breasts yield juicier cutlets compared to frozen ones.
• bold Crush Pretzels Just Right – Aim for a coarse crumb that gives texture without losing crunch during cooking.
• bold Ensure Proper Oil Temperature – Frying at 180°C / 350°F allows the coating to get crispy without absorbing too much oil.
• bold Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to maintain temperature and achieve even cooking for each cutlet.
• bold Let Them Rest – Allow fried cutlets to rest on a wire rack; this keeps them crispy by letting excess oil drip off.
• bold Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to tweak the spice mix according to your preference; add more cayenne for heat or omit it for milder flavors.

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Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to complement your Pretzel Crusted Chicken:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet and caramelized, these potatoes make an excellent side that balances saltiness.
2. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and a tangy taste that contrasts beautifully with the chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn is a summer favorite that offers natural sweetness alongside savory dishes.
4. French Fries – Crispy fries are always a hit; try seasoning them with paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides great texture and nutrition without being heavy.
6. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans bring comfort food vibes that pair well with fried chicken dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not crushing pretzels properly – Ensure the pretzels are crushed into a coarse crumb. This will provide the best texture for the coating.
• Skipping the spice mix – Don’t forget to divide the spice mix between the flour and pretzels. This ensures even flavor throughout each cutlet.
• Overcrowding the pan – Frying too many cutlets at once lowers the oil temperature. Fry in batches to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Ignoring oil temperature – Always check if the oil is hot enough before adding chicken. A breadcrumb should sizzle on contact for optimal frying results.
• Serving without seasoning – A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after frying enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop – Heat a little oil over medium heat and fry cutlets for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce?

Baking is possible but may not achieve the same crispiness as frying. If you choose to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

How can I customize the honey mustard sauce?

Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding more honey or swapping Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard for added texture and flavor.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Pretzel Crusted Chicken goes great with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or crispy potato wedges, making it versatile for any meal.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! The chicken can be stored easily and reheats well, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This pretzel crust works wonderfully with pork chops or even fish fillets, giving you flexibility in your meals.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is an exciting twist on traditional chicken dishes. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a delightful meal option. Experiment with different spices or serve it alongside your favorite sides to make it uniquely yours!