Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the pretzels in a heavy-duty freezer bag and crush them into coarse crumbs using a rolling pin.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with the crushed pretzels.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, shaking off the excess, then into the egg wash, and finally press it firmly into the pretzel crumbs.
- Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently.
- Lower the heat and stir in the Dijon mustard and grated cheddar cheese until the cheese melts into a silky, golden ribbon.
Cook the Chicken
- Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cutlets.
- While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce as described above.
- Once the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serve
- Drizzle the warm sauce generously over the crispy chicken and serve.
Notes
For a different flavor profile, consider adding honey to the cheese sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading. Ensure the chicken is patted dry before breading to help the pretzels adhere better.
