Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that combines crispy, savory, and sweet all in one bite? Introducing Bacon Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken—a mouthwatering recipe that will have your taste buds dancing! This American classic takes juicy chicken breasts and coats them in a delightful mixture of crunchy pretzel crumbs and crumbled bacon, all brought together with a zesty honey mustard glaze. Perfect for a weeknight family meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to create this irresistible recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup pretzel crumbs
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup honey mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice golden crust.
- Prepare your ingredients: Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. You can use pre-cooked bacon for convenience, but freshly cooked bacon will add more flavor.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs and crumbled bacon. Mix well so that the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the pretzel crumbs.
- In another bowl, pour in the honey mustard. You can use store-bought honey mustard or make your own by mixing equal parts honey and Dijon mustard.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure to season both sides for maximum flavor.
- Dip each chicken breast into the honey mustard, ensuring that it is well-coated on both sides.
- After coating the chicken in honey mustard, press each piece into the pretzel and bacon mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. The pretzel crumbs should adhere well to the chicken.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. Make sure to leave space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- Serve the Bacon Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken warm, garnished with your choice of sides such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the bacon and pretzel mixture ahead of time. Just store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the juiciest results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the salt and pepper seasoning. Garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor profile.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy, tender chicken every time!
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step is crucial for keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Pair with the Perfect Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. Consider adding a drizzle of extra honey mustard for a delightful finishing touch.
- Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, they make fantastic additions to salads or sandwiches the next day. Just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
