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 more than just delicious; it’s versatile and easy to prepare!

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of salty pretzels and sweet honey mustard creates a flavor explosion.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in under an hour.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s dinner with family or a casual lunch, this chicken fits right in.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun texture and taste make it an instant hit with children.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra cutlets for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make this cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Shallow dishes (3)
• Heavy-based frying pan
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly turns pretzels into crumbs for that perfect crunch.
• Shallow dishes: Help streamline the breading process, keeping everything organized.
• Heavy-based frying pan: Ensures even cooking and prevents hot spots 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

How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard 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 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.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations

Set up three shallow dishes:
1. One with flour.
2. One with beaten eggs.
3. 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 and half into the pretzels.

Step 4: Slice Chicken Breasts

Horizontally slice each chicken breast into four even-sized cutlets.

Step 5: Bread the Chicken

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

Step 6: Fry the Cutlets

Add enough oil to coat the bottom of a heavy-based pan and heat over medium until it reaches 180°C / 350°F. A breadcrumb should sizzle on contact.

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. Top up and reheat oil if necessary before frying remaining cutlets.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with flaky sea salt sprinkled on top and fresh chives. Enjoy your meal alongside or drizzled with honey mustard sauce!

How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Serving Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is all about adding flavors and textures that complement this delicious dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a casual family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Crisp Caesar Salad – The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the chicken.
• Mixed Greens – Tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a light contrast to the savory flavors.
• Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch that complements the pretzel crust.

Create Flavorful Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps – Use large lettuce leaves to wrap pieces of chicken with sauce for a low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps – Roll up slices with fresh veggies and honey mustard for a quick lunch idea.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Honey Mustard Sauce – A classic choice to enhance the already delicious flavors.
• Spicy Ketchup – Provides a kick that pairs well with the pretzel crust.

Add Fun Garnishes

• Fresh Chives – Sprinkle over the top for an added layer of flavor and color.
• Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

To achieve the best results when making Pretzel Crusted Chicken, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.

• bold use fresh ingredients – Always opt for fresh chicken breasts and high-quality pretzels for maximum flavor.
• bold control your frying temperature – Maintain oil at 180°C / 350°F for perfect crispiness without burning.
• bold press the coating firmly – After applying the pretzel mixture, press down firmly to ensure it sticks during cooking.
• bold let it rest after frying – Allow cooked chicken to rest on a wire rack to keep it crispy and prevent sogginess.
• bold experiment with spices – Feel free to customize spice levels by adjusting paprika or adding more cayenne pepper according to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Complementing your Pretzel Crusted Chicken with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that work beautifully alongside this dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries offer a sweet contrast to the salty pretzel crust.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn drizzled with butter enhances summer flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad – A nutty quinoa salad packed with veggies brings texture and health benefits.
6. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans make for a hearty accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Using fine pretzel crumbs: Fine crumbs can lead to a less crunchy coating. Aim for a coarse texture for maximum crunchiness.
• Skipping the spice mix: The seasoning is crucial for flavor. Make sure to divide it evenly between the flour and pretzels for balanced taste.
• Not resting the chicken: Letting the coated chicken sit for a few minutes helps the coating stick better during frying.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many cutlets at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for perfect crispiness.
• Underestimating oil temperature: The oil should be hot enough before adding chicken. Test with a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake cutlets on a lined tray for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry cutlets for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce?

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is a deliciously crispy chicken dish featuring a savory pretzel coating paired with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.

Can I bake Pretzel Crusted Chicken instead of frying?

While frying gives the best texture, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C). Spray with oil and cook until golden brown, but note that baking may yield a less crispy result.

How do I customize the honey mustard sauce?

Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding more honey or add spices like cayenne or paprika for an extra kick!

What sides go well with Pretzel Crusted Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with salads, vegetable wedges, or even in wraps for a quick lunch option.

How long does it take to prepare Pretzel Crusted Chicken?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce combines crispy goodness with juicy chicken that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you enjoy it as dinner or pack it into wraps for lunch, this recipe offers versatility and flavor! Don’t hesitate to customize your sauce or serve it alongside your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal.