Name: Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Vegetable oil (for frying), enough to fill skillet 2 inches deep; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup milk; 2 cups crushed pretzels; 1¼ pounds chicken tenderloins; Mustard, ketchup, or preferred dipping sauce; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you’re craving a crunchy, flavorful twist on your usual chicken dinner, the Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a uniquely crispy coating made from crushed pretzels, seasoned just right to create that perfect balance of savory and crunchy. It’s a recipe that brings warmth to your table, offers irresistibly crunchy bites, and is surprisingly simple to whip up for a crowd or a cozy family night. Get ready to fall in love with this fun, tasty crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with texture and flavor at every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six white bowls and a white measuring cup with ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. On the top left, there are two brown eggs beside a small white bowl filled with white flour. In the center, there is a large white bowl filled with crushed pretzel pieces that are light brown with some white bits. To the right of that is a bright white measuring cup filled with clear, golden oil. Below the oil is a medium white bowl holding raw, pale pink chicken pieces. At the bottom left, there is a small white bowl containing six different spices arranged in small piles of red, green, black, white, beige, and a light brown color. Lastly, a small white measuring cup on the top right holds white milk. The ingredients are well spaced and lit softly with no shadows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a vital role in turning simple chicken tenders into a crunchy, flavor-packed treat. From the savory seasoning mix in the flour to the unmistakably crunchy pretzels, every element contributes to this delightful recipe.

Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect golden, crispy exterior without drying out the chicken.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the seasoned coating, creating a dry layer that helps the batter stick.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a subtle herbal note brightening the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon ground paprika: Brings a mild smoky warmth and a hint of color to the flour mixture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers savory depth that’s just unmistakable in comfort food.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Compliments the garlic with a gentle, sweet onion undertone.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances all flavors perfectly without overwhelming the palate.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the overall taste.
2 large eggs: Acts as the glue, helping the pretzel coating cling tightly to the chicken.
¼ cup milk: Mixed with the eggs for a smooth dipping batter ensuring even coating.
2 cups crushed pretzels: The star of the show, providing that signature crunchy texture and a hint of salty flavor!
1¼ pounds chicken tenderloins: The tender, juicy centerpiece of the dish, easy to cook and perfect for coating.
Mustard, ketchup, or dipping sauce: Your choice of dipping options to complement the crunchy tenders.
Chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish that lifts the presentation and taste.

How to Make Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oil

Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet and heat it over low to medium heat until it reaches 365°F. This temperature is key—the oil needs to be hot enough to create a crisp crust quickly but not so hot that it burns the coating before the chicken cooks through.

Step 2: Mix the Flour Seasoning

In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with dried parsley, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will give your chicken those layers of flavor beneath the crunchy pretzel crust. Whisk it together well to make sure every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash

In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. This mixture will help the crushed pretzels stick to the chicken, giving you that irresistible crunch with every bite.

Step 4: Crush the Pretzels

Place the pretzels in a third shallow bowl and crush them into small pieces. Not too fine—keep some crunch and texture. These pretzels form the crispy outer layer that sets this recipe apart and provides that addictive salty snap.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg wash, and finally press it firmly into the crushed pretzels, ensuring the coating sticks well and covers the chicken evenly. This triple-layered approach locks in juiciness while building that perfect pretzel crust.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Fry the tenders in batches—2 to 3 at a time—to avoid crowding the pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the pretzel crust is a beautiful, golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a cooling rack to maintain their crispiness and prevent sogginess.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the warm chicken tenders with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness right before serving. Pair them with your favorite dips like mustard, ketchup, or any other sauce that you love!

How to Serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe

A close-up view of a golden brown crispy snack stick with a rough crunchy texture being dipped into a small metal cup filled with bright red smooth sauce, a small dollop of sauce dripping from the tip of the snack; in the background, there is another metal cup with yellow creamy mustard sauce, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a simple but wonderful way to add just a hint of herbal brightness and color contrast against the golden pretzel crust. You can also experiment with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or a dusting of smoked paprika for an extra flavor punch.

Side Dishes

This Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe pairs beautifully with classic sides like crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. For a comforting meal, try mashed potatoes or baked macaroni and cheese for the ultimate indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party platter, arrange the chicken tenders alongside colorful veggie sticks and an assortment of dips served in small bowls. You can also turn these tenders into sliders by placing them in mini buns with lettuce and your favorite sauce—an absolute crowd-pleaser for any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe has been enjoyed, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them on paper towels will help absorb excess moisture and maintain crispness.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these tenders ahead of time, you can freeze them either before or after frying. To freeze raw prepared tenders, lay them out on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. For cooked tenders, wrap them tightly to preserve freshness and crunch.

Reheating

To bring leftover or frozen tenders back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes. This method revives that crispy pretzel coating far better than a microwave, keeping the chicken juicy inside while restoring the crust’s satisfying crunch.

FAQs

Can I bake these pretzel crusted tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes on a greased baking sheet works well. Flip them halfway through to ensure even crispiness, though frying will always give you that extra crunch.

What type of pretzels work best for the crust?

Plain salted pretzels are perfect because they provide that classic balance of saltiness and crunch. Avoid flavored or coated pretzels as they can alter the taste and texture of the crust.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, but slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy. Tenderloins are naturally more tender and quicker to cook, which is why they are often preferred.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! The crunchy texture and mild flavors make it a big hit with kids, especially when paired with familiar dipping sauces like ketchup or honey mustard.

How do I make sure the pretzel crust sticks well?

Following the dredging order—flour, egg wash, then pretzels—is crucial. Press the pretzels firmly onto the surface after dipping in the egg to create a thick, even crust that won’t flake off during frying.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into the crunchy, savory goodness of this Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tender Recipe. It transforms simple chicken into a festive, crave-worthy meal that’s perfect any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this recipe brings a warm, delightful crunch that everyone will love. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll quickly become one of your favorites too!