Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Pretzel Crusted Chicken Fingers aren't just another boring recipe - they're a crispy, golden masterpiece that combines the irresistible crunch of pretzels with tender, juicy chicken. Imagine biting into a perfectly coated chicken tender that's simultaneously crunchy on the outside and succulent on the inside, then dipping it into a tantalizing apple cider honey mustard sauce that will make your mouth water. This recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that impresses both kids and adults alike!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare your chicken tenders by patting them dry with paper towels. This will help the coating adhere better. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the two eggs until well combined. In a third bowl, add the crushed pretzels.
- Coat each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the crushed pretzels, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Once all the chicken tenders are coated, bake them in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can flip them halfway through for even browning.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the apple cider honey mustard sauce. In a small bowl, combine the apple cider, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Once the chicken tenders are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the pretzel crusted chicken fingers hot with the apple cider honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks perfectly.
- Use fresh, crisp pretzels and crush them finely for the most even coating.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each chicken tender space to ensure crispy edges.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F internally for food safety.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking.
- Make the sauce ahead of time and let it sit for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 318kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 153mg
