Description
This Pretzel Crusted Chicken recipe offers a delightful twist on classic breaded chicken by using crushed pretzels to create an irresistibly crunchy coating. Perfectly seasoned and baked or air-fried to golden perfection, this dish combines savory flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it an ideal main course for family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups pretzels, crushed into fine crumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons milk
For Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for baking) or spray (if air frying)
Optional
- Honey mustard or ranch for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Set Up Coating Stations: Place the crushed pretzel crumbs in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a third bowl, whisk the eggs with Dijon mustard and milk until smooth.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with the pretzel crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
- Arrange and Oil: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter to help with browning and crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time to brown both sides evenly. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure doneness.
- Alternative Air Frying Method: For extra crispiness, you can air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, spraying the basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Serve the pretzel crusted chicken hot with your choice of honey mustard or ranch dipping sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- For smaller portions, cut chicken breasts into strips or nuggets before breading.
- Use gluten-free pretzels if a gluten-free version is needed.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
