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Close-up of golden-brown Pretzel Chicken, showcasing its crispy pretzel crust and juicy chicken interior.

ULTIMATE PRETZEL CHICKEN RECIPE

This recipe delivers consistently crispy and flavorful pretzel chicken every time. The key is proper adhesion and moisture control, achieved through a flour-egg-pretzel breading process and choosing the right cooking method. Air frying is recommended for the crispiest results.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
  • 2 cups pretzel crumbs finely crushed
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • 3 shallow dishes or pie plates
  • paper towels
  • Baking sheet (if baking)
  • Large skillet (if pan-frying)
  • Air fryer (optional)
  • Food processor (for pretzel crumbs, optional)
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up the Breading Station: In the first shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk or buttermilk, and Dijon mustard. In the third dish, combine the pretzel crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the pretzel crumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Press the crumbs firmly to help them adhere.
  4. Choose Your Cooking Method:
  5. Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil spray. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Spray the chicken lightly with olive oil spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pretzel coating is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pretzel coating is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pretzel coating is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
  8. Rest and Serve: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the pretzel crumb mixture. Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pretzels and gluten-free all-purpose flour. Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo.