Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a crunchy, flavor-packed sensation that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Pretzel Coated Chicken Tenders aren't just another boring protein - they're a culinary adventure that combines the irresistible crunch of pretzels with a tantalizing mustard apricot dipping sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for picky eaters, weekend gatherings, or when you want to elevate your home cooking game without spending hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare three shallow dishes for breading: In the first dish, mix flour with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs thoroughly. In the third dish, spread the crushed pretzels.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.
- Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage. Finally, roll in the crushed pretzels, pressing gently to make sure the pretzel crumbs stick firmly.
- Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Lightly spray or brush the tenders with olive oil to help them brown and crisp up in the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken bakes, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together mustard and apricot preserves in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with the mustard apricot dipping sauce on the side.
Tips
- Pat chicken tenders completely dry before breading to ensure maximum crispiness and better coating adhesion.
- Use fresh, crisp pretzels and crush them to a medium-fine texture for the perfect crunchy coating.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each tender space to ensure even browning and crisp edges.
- For extra flavor, add dried herbs like thyme or paprika to your flour mixture.
- Use a digital meat thermometer to check chicken's internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Let chicken rest after baking to redistribute juices and maintain maximum tenderness.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pretzels and flour alternatives.
- The dipping sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 278kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 153mg
