PRETZEL CHICKEN AMAZING EASY DINNER

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted something similar to what we now know as Pretzel Chicken; it was at a quirky little food fair, where a vendor had the brilliant idea to coat chicken tenders in crushed pretzels, and the rest, as they say, is history! The salty crunch combined with the tender chicken was pure genius. Now, I’m sharing my take on this fantastic dish, a recipe so simple and delicious it’ll become a weeknight staple, guaranteeing smiles around the dinner table.

Pretzel Chicken: Your New Weeknight Hero

Hey there, friend! Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Do you crave something with a little pizzazz, a little crunch, and a whole lot of flavor? Well, buckle up because I’m about to introduce you to your new best friend in the kitchen: Pretzel Chicken! This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of salty, savory, and oh-so-satisfying crunch that will have your family begging for more. Trust me, this is one you’ll want to bookmark.

Why You’ll Love This Pretzel Chicken Recipe

Let’s be real, we all want dinner to be easy, delicious, and something the whole family will actually eat. This Pretzel Chicken ticks all those boxes, and then some! Here’s why you’re going to fall head-over-heels for it:

• Effortless to Make: Seriously, you don’t need to be a culinary genius to pull this off. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Approved: The crunchy pretzel coating is a guaranteed hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides – from mashed potatoes and gravy to a simple salad, it goes with everything!
• Deliciously Addictive: That salty, crunchy pretzel crust is simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Want to add a little spice? Go for it! This recipe is a great base for your own creative twists.

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

Okay, let’s gather our supplies! The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create your pretzel-crusted masterpiece:

• Chicken Breasts: About 2 pounds, boneless and skinless. You can also use chicken tenders for even faster cooking.
• Pretzels: Approximately 3 cups of pretzel twists. I prefer the regular salted kind, but you can experiment with different flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup, for dredging the chicken.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten. These help the pretzel crumbs adhere to the chicken.
• Milk or Buttermilk: 2 tablespoons (optional, but adds moisture).
• Spices: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Feel free to adjust these to your liking!
• Salt: To taste, but be mindful of the salt in the pretzels.
• Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step: Making the Best Pretzel Chicken

Alright, let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step. I promise, it’s easier than you think.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

First, let’s get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. If your chicken breasts are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner and cook more evenly. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper.

Step 2: Crush the Pretzels

This is where the magic happens! Place the pretzels in a large zip-top bag. Seal the bag and crush the pretzels into fine crumbs. You can use a rolling pin, a meat mallet, or even your hands (if you’re feeling strong!). You can also use a food processor, but be careful not to over-process them into a powder. You want some texture.

Pro Tip: Don’t have a zip-top bag? No problem! You can also crush the pretzels between two sheets of parchment paper.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Now, let’s get our breading station ready. In three separate shallow dishes, place the following:

• Dish 1: All-purpose flour
• Dish 2: Beaten eggs with milk or buttermilk (if using)
• Dish 3: Crushed pretzel crumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

This setup will make the breading process smooth and efficient.

Step 4: Breading the Chicken

Now for the fun part! Take a piece of chicken and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, transfer the chicken to the pretzel crumb mixture and press firmly to coat both sides completely. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered in those delicious pretzel crumbs!

Troubleshooting Tip: Are the pretzel crumbs not sticking? Make sure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the egg mixture. You can also gently press the crumbs onto the chicken with your hands to help them adhere.

Step 5: Baking or Frying the Chicken

You have two options here: baking or frying. Both methods yield delicious results, but baking is a healthier option. Here’s how to do both:

Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
3. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray. This helps them get nice and golden brown.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pretzel crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Frying Instructions:

1. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pretzel crust is golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Safety Note: Always use caution when working with hot oil. Never leave the skillet unattended, and be sure to use a splatter screen to prevent oil splatters.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Congratulations, you’ve just made delicious Pretzel Chicken! Serve it immediately while it’s hot and crispy. It’s fantastic with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a simple ketchup. And don’t forget your favorite side dishes!

Variations and Add-ins: Make it Your Own!

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create your own signature Pretzel Chicken!

• Spicy Pretzel Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the pretzel crumb mixture for a little kick.
• Cheesy Pretzel Chicken: Mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the pretzel crumbs for a cheesy twist.
• Herbed Pretzel Chicken: Add some dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to the pretzel crumbs for a more savory flavor.
• Sweet and Salty Pretzel Chicken: Drizzle a little honey over the baked chicken for a sweet and salty combination.
• Different Pretzels: Use flavored pretzels like honey mustard or everything bagel for a unique taste.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Pretzel Chicken

Pretzel Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: A classic comfort food combination.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts are all great choices.
• Mac and Cheese: A crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side that complements the salty chicken.
• Salad: A simple green salad or a more elaborate Caesar salad are both excellent options.
• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: For a truly indulgent meal!

Other Chicken Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re a chicken lover like me, you’re always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes. Here are a few other chicken dishes that I think you’ll enjoy:

• Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken: This creamy and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
• Chicken Casserole Recipe: A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always a hit.
• Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake: A fun and easy recipe that’s perfect for a potluck or a weeknight dinner.
• Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken: For those who like a little heat with their sweet, this recipe is a winner.
• Oven-baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken: Crispy, cheesy, and baked to perfection!
• Crispy Parmesan Chicken: Another take on a classic with a deliciously crispy parmesan crust.
• Pretzel Chicken: (Because we’re talking about it!) In case you need to jump back to the top.

Tips for Success: Making Perfect Pretzel Chicken Every Time

Want to make sure your Pretzel Chicken is a home run every single time? Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether you’re baking or frying, avoid overcrowding the pan. This will lower the temperature of the oil or oven and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let the Chicken Rest: After baking or frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of chicken.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: This recipe is a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create your own unique version.
• Make it Ahead: You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Pretzel Chicken:

• Storage: Store leftover Pretzel Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the crust may not be as crispy. For best results, reheat in an air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Pretzel Chicken: Frequently Asked Questions

I know you might have some questions, so let’s address some of the most common ones:

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be more moist and flavorful, but they may take a little longer to cook.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Simply use gluten-free pretzels and gluten-free flour.
• Can I use a different type of pretzel? Of course! Experiment with different flavors and textures to find your favorite. Pretzel sticks or mini pretzels also work well.
• Can I freeze Pretzel Chicken? Yes, you can freeze breaded, uncooked chicken. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Pretzel Chicken Adventure!

There you have it! A complete guide to making the most delicious and easy Pretzel Chicken. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Pretzel Chicken

This Pretzel Chicken recipe delivers a satisfying salty and crunchy experience by coating tender chicken in crushed pretzels. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will love. Baking or frying options are available.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders
• 3 cups pretzel twists, crushed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk optional
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Cooking spray
• 1/2 inch of cooking oil if frying

Equipment

• Large zip-top bag or parchment paper
• Rolling pin or meat mallet (optional)
• Food processor (optional)
• 3 shallow dishes
• baking sheet
• Cooking Spray
• Oven or large skillet
• wire rack
• paper towels
• Meat Thermometer

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and slice horizontally if thick. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Crush pretzels into fine crumbs using a zip-top bag and rolling pin, or a food processor. Don’t over-process.
4. Set up a breading station with flour in one dish, beaten eggs (with milk/buttermilk if using) in another, and crushed pretzels mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a third dish.
5. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly in the pretzel crumb mixture.
6. For baking: Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Place breaded chicken on the sheet and spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. For frying: Carefully place breaded chicken in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.

Notes

For spicier chicken, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the pretzel crumbs. Mix grated Parmesan cheese or dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) into the pretzel crumbs for variations. Drizzle honey over the baked chicken for a sweet and salty taste. Gluten-free option: use gluten-free pretzels and flour. Breaded chicken can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C), microwave or air fryer until heated through.