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. This dish is ideal for a fun dinner or sliced into a wrap for lunch!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce:
• For the Chicken:
• How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
• Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Coating
• Step 3: Prepare Chicken Cutlets
• Step 4: Frying Time
• Step 5: Serving Suggestions
• How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
• As a Main Dish
• In a Wrap
• On a Salad
• With Dipping Sauce
• As Sliders
• How to Perfect Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
• Reheating Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce special?
• Can I bake Pretzel Crusted Chicken instead of frying?
• How do I customize the honey mustard sauce?
• Is Pretzel Crusted Chicken suitable for meal prep?
• What sides pair well with this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Crunch: The pretzel crust brings a delightful texture that makes every bite satisfying.
• Flavor Balance: The creamy honey mustard sauce complements the salty chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy this dish for dinner, as leftovers in a wrap, or even as party finger food.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the crunchy coating and the sweet, tangy sauce.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor (or zip-lock bag and rolling pin)
• Three shallow dishes
• Heavy-based frying pan
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly turns pretzels into crumbs for an even coating.
• Shallow dishes: Ideal for dredging chicken in flour, egg, and pretzel crumbs without making a mess.
• Heavy-based frying pan: Ensures even heat distribution while frying, resulting in 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 to your taste. Set aside or refrigerate until needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Coating

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

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed pretzels. In a small bowl, mix 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 3: Prepare Chicken Cutlets

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

Step 4: Frying Time

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

Fry two cutlets at a time for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack. Be sure to top up oil if necessary before frying any remaining cutlets.

Step 5: Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and fresh chives on top. Enjoy your Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce drizzled over or served on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the chicken hot with a drizzle of honey mustard sauce on top for an extra flavor boost.
• Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables to add color and nutrients to your plate.

In a Wrap

• Slice the cooked chicken and place it in a tortilla wrap.
• Add fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of honey mustard sauce for a quick lunch option.

On a Salad

• Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it in a mixed green salad.
• Use the honey mustard sauce as a dressing to enhance the flavors of the salad.

With Dipping Sauce

• Offer the honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
• This makes for a fun finger food option, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

As Sliders

• Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and serve on slider buns.
• Add pickles and lettuce for an easy-to-eat appetizer or party food.

How to Perfect Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Making Pretzel Crusted Chicken is straightforward, but these tips will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh chicken: Fresh chicken breasts yield juicier cutlets compared to frozen ones. Opt for high-quality meat to enhance flavor.
• Crush pretzels correctly: Use both coarse and fine pretzel crumbs for optimal texture. The coarse crumbs provide crunch while finer crumbs help adhere better.
• Ensure proper oil temperature: Frying at the right temperature (180°C / 350°F) is crucial. Test with breadcrumbs; they should sizzle upon contact.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry only two cutlets at a time to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy chicken.
• Let them rest: After frying, place cutlets on a wire rack to cool slightly. This keeps them crispy by preventing steam build-up.
• Customize spices: Feel free to adjust the spice mix according to your taste preferences. Experimenting can lead to new favorite flavors!

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Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

Pairing your Pretzel Crusted Chicken with complementary side dishes enhances both presentation and taste. Here are some fantastic options that work beautifully together.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with crispy chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, balancing out the richness of the fried chicken.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts bring out earthy flavors that complement the salty pretzels wonderfully.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries contrasts nicely with the salty crunch of the chicken coating.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad offers refreshing bites that cleanse your palate after rich flavors.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser during any meal.
7. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with veggies provides nutrition and fiber alongside your main dish.
8. Baked Beans: Rich, hearty baked beans give a comforting touch that pairs beautifully with crispy fried foods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the spice mix: Not seasoning the flour and pretzels can lead to bland chicken. Always divide and mix your spices into both components for flavor.
• Using fine pretzel crumbs: Fine crumbs can result in a soggy texture. Aim for a coarse crumb for that satisfying crunch.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many cutlets at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain crispiness.
• Not adjusting sauce ingredients: If the honey mustard sauce is too sweet or tangy, don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients. Taste and modify before serving.
• Neglecting resting time: Allowing fried chicken to rest on a wire rack helps maintain its crispy texture. Avoid placing it directly on paper towels which traps moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently. This may make the crust less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a little oil, until warm and crispy again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce special?

This dish combines crispy pretzel coating with juicy chicken and creamy honey mustard sauce, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Can I bake Pretzel Crusted Chicken instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crunch, you can bake it at 200°C / 400°F for about 20-25 minutes if you prefer a healthier option.

How do I customize the honey mustard sauce?

You can add ingredients like garlic or herbs to enhance flavor according to your preference. Adjust sweetness by varying honey amounts.

Is Pretzel Crusted Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated easily, making it ideal for meal prep lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving it with salad, roasted vegetables, or fries for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for various occasions—from family dinners to lunch wraps. Feel free to customize the spices or sauce based on your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy this mouthwatering twist on comfort food!

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