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Pretzel Chicken with Cheddar Sauce

Pretzel Chicken with Cheddar Sauce
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Pretzel Chicken with Cheddar Sauce is a crispy, juicy chicken dish coated in a crunchy pretzel crust and served with a rich, velvety sharp cheddar cheese sauce. This comforting and indulgent meal is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or entertaining guests. The combination of salty pretzels and creamy cheddar makes it a crowd-pleaser with a delicious homemade feel.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • 2 cups pretzels, crushed into fine crumbs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheddar Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Coating: Crush pretzels into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing. Set up three bowls: one with flour seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with the crushed pretzel crumbs.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Pat chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Dip each piece first into the seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the pretzel crumbs. Press gently to ensure an even coating. Let the coated chicken rest on a plate for a few minutes to set the crust.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pretzel-coated chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Alternatively, place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden.
  4. Make the Cheddar Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve: Spoon or drizzle the warm cheddar sauce over the pretzel chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Crush pretzels finely using a food processor or by crushing in a sealed bag for the best crisp texture.
  • Pat chicken dry before coating to help the pretzel crust adhere better.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
  • Use sharp, real cheddar cheese for deep flavor and smooth melting in the sauce.
  • Keep cheddar sauce warm on low heat and stir occasionally to prevent skin forming or separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel chicken, cheddar sauce, crispy chicken, homemade chicken recipe, cheesy chicken, comfort food, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/pretzel-chicken-with-cheddar-sauce/