Crunchy Pretzel Crusted Chicken: Air Fryer & Oven Baked Perfection
Prepare to transform your weeknight dinners and game-day snacks with this unbelievably delicious Pretzel Crusted Chicken Recipe! This dish takes your favorite chicken tenders and gives them an irresistible upgrade with a super crunchy, salty pretzel coating. Infused with the subtle sweetness of honey mustard and perfectly seasoned, these tenders are a delightful departure from ordinary chicken nuggets. Whether you prefer the lightning-fast crisp of an air fryer or the consistent bake of a traditional oven, this recipe provides clear, detailed instructions for both methods. Get ready for a satisfyingly crispy, flavorful twist that will quickly become a family favorite!
Why This Pretzel Crusted Chicken is a Family Favorite
Today, I’m thrilled to share this exciting twist on traditional chicken tenders. This Pretzel Crusted Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary adventure that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. You will absolutely fall in love with the salty, incredibly crunchy outside crust that the pretzels create on the chicken, delivering an unparalleled texture experience with every single bite.
These crispy and flavorful chicken tenders are exceptionally versatile, making them perfect for various occasions:
- Game Day Feasts: They make a fantastic, easy-to-eat snack for any sporting event or casual gathering.
- Kids’ Parties: A fun and appealing alternative to the usual chicken nuggets, sure to be a hit with the younger crowd.
- Easy Weeknight Dinners: Simple and quick to prepare, they take the stress out of busy evenings.
- Casual Entertaining: A unique dish that’s impressive yet approachable for guests.
My entire family absolutely adores these, and they were particularly excited to try something new beyond our standard chicken tender rotation. The combination of savory chicken with a crisp, salty pretzel coating and a hint of honey mustard is truly addicting. It’s a culinary surprise that will have everyone asking for more!
Elevate Your Flavor with Everything Bagel Pretzels
For those who can’t get enough of the rich, savory taste of everything bagel seasoning, here’s a pro tip: seek out “everything pretzel thins.” Swapping these for regular pretzels in your crust mixture will impart an even more complex and delicious flavor profile to your chicken tenders. The blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion will add an incredible aromatic depth that perfectly complements the chicken. It’s a simple ingredient change that delivers a big, gourmet taste!
The Perfect Dipping Sauces for Pretzel Chicken
No chicken tender experience is complete without a variety of dipping sauces! This is where the fun truly begins, as everyone can customize their bite. My kids especially enjoy exploring different options to pair with these crunchy tenders. Here are some popular choices that always disappear quickly:
- Classic Ketchup
- Sweet and Smoky BBQ Sauce
- Creamy Homemade Ranch Dressing
- Zesty Hot Sauce
- Spicy Buffalo Sauce
- Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Mustard
- The ever-popular Honey Mustard (which is also part of our coating!)
- Sharp Dijon Mustard for a sophisticated kick
Offering a range of dipping sauces enhances the meal, making it more interactive and enjoyable for everyone at the table. Don’t be shy – present a medley of your favorite sauces!
Explore More Crunchy Chicken Recipes
If the unique crunch and flavor of these pretzel crusted chicken tenders have won you over, you’ll be delighted to discover some of my other favorite chicken recipes that deliver on crispiness and taste:
- Healthy Baked Chicken Fingers: A lighter, yet still satisfyingly crispy, option for a guilt-free treat.
- Tropical Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Mayo-Free Cilantro Lime Dip: A fantastic recipe offering a hint of exotic flavor and a wonderfully crisp texture.
- Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: For another incredibly easy and consistently crunchy chicken dish using your air fryer.
The Magic of Air Frying for Perfectly Crispy Results
I am an ardent fan of cooking with an air fryer, and it’s particularly outstanding for achieving that ultimate crispy coating on dishes like this pretzel chicken. I rely on my air fryer frequently because it consistently delivers that desired crispy crust, mimicking the results of deep frying but with significantly less oil and a healthier outcome.
The air fryer operates much like a powerful, compact countertop convection oven. Its clever design promotes incredibly fast and efficient cooking. At the top of the unit, a heating element and a fan work in tandem. This powerful fan rapidly circulates super-heated air down and around the food, which is placed in a perforated basket. This rapid air circulation is the secret to crisping up food beautifully and evenly.
Many compare air frying to deep frying because of the similar crispy texture it produces, but it’s a far healthier alternative! When you air fry, you can typically reduce the calorie and fat content by 70% to 80% compared to traditional deep frying. This is largely due to the minimal to no use of vegetable oil, making your meals much lighter and better for you. Beyond these pretzel crusted chicken tenders, I love using my air fryer for recipes such as Flaky Air Fryer Cod, Golden Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, and even comforting Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes.
An added bonus is the ease of clean-up; most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher safe, making post-meal tidying a breeze!
Essential Ingredients for Pretzel Crusted Chicken
Crafting these irresistible pretzel chicken tenders is surprisingly simple, requiring just a few key components. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to gather to ensure the best results:
- Chicken Tenders: For this recipe, approximately 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins will comfortably serve 4-5 people. Chicken tenders are ideal because they are already portioned into convenient, quick-cooking strips. If you only have boneless, skinless chicken breasts on hand, you can easily cut them into 1-inch wide strips to create your own tenders. This ensures uniform size for even cooking. This recipe is also easily scalable – feel free to double it for larger gatherings!
- Honey Mustard Dressing: This ingredient is a true workhorse, providing a fantastic sweet and tangy flavor while also acting as the essential binder for the pretzel crust. Its stickiness helps the crushed pretzels adhere securely to the chicken. You can use your favorite store-bought honey mustard for convenience, or whip up a homemade version for a fresher, more customized taste.
- Eggs: Two large eggs are whisked together to create an egg wash. This sticky layer is critical for helping the pretzel and breadcrumb mixture cling to the chicken, ensuring a full, crunchy crust.
- Breadcrumbs: I typically use regular breadcrumbs in this recipe, which add bulk and a classic breaded texture. However, for an even more pronounced and incredibly crispy crust, I highly recommend using panko breadcrumbs. Panko has a coarser, flakier texture that results in an airier and crunchier coating. A combination of both also works wonderfully!
- Spices: The spice mixture adds a foundational layer of flavor to both the chicken and the coating. My go-to blend includes paprika, garlic powder (not garlic salt, as the pretzels are already salty), and black pepper. Paprika adds a lovely color and mild flavor, while garlic powder provides savory depth. You can absolutely customize this blend! Consider adding a pinch of onion powder, Italian seasoning for an herbal touch, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
- Pretzels: This is the star ingredient that gives the dish its unique name and texture! I always opt for thin pretzels because they are much easier to crush into a fine, consistent crumb, which is vital for an even and crisp coating. Any smaller pretzel variety, whether twists or sticks, will work perfectly. As mentioned, “everything bagel seasoned” pretzel thins are a fantastic option for an extra layer of savory flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, simply select your preferred brand of gluten-free pretzels. The key is to achieve a fine crumb; a food processor or a small blender will do the job efficiently.
Is Air Fried Food Really Healthy?
A common question many people have is, “How healthy is air-fried food?” The excellent news is that air frying offers a significantly healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. The principle behind an air fryer involves cooking food with super-heated, rapidly circulating air, which creates a delightfully crispy texture without submerging ingredients in large amounts of oil.
By using an air fryer, you can typically reduce the calorie and fat content of your food by 70% to 80% when compared to deep-frying. This substantial reduction comes from minimizing or eliminating the need for excessive vegetable oil. Instead of gallons, you often only need a light spray of oil to achieve that coveted golden-brown, crispy finish. This makes air-fried meals an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite crispy foods while adhering to a more health-conscious diet.
The air fryer functions much like a high-powered countertop convection oven, with its compact design allowing for even faster and more efficient cooking. A heating mechanism and a powerful fan located at the top of the unit push hot air down and around the food, which rests in a basket. This rapid air circulation ensures even cooking and a perfectly crispy outer layer on a wide range of foods. From savory dishes like Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower and Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes to sweet treats such as Air Fryer Donut Holes, the possibilities are vast. Plus, a great bonus is how easy air fryers are to clean, with most baskets being dishwasher safe.
How to Make The Perfect Pretzel Crusted Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Making these crunchy chicken tenders is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly coated and delicious chicken every time, whether you choose to air fry or bake.
Air Fryer Method:
- Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a shallow bowl (a pie plate or a wide, shallow dish works best), whisk together ½ cup of honey mustard dressing, 2 large eggs, ½ teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This will form your flavorful liquid coating.
- Coat Chicken in Egg Wash: Add your raw chicken tenderloins to the prepared egg wash, ensuring that each piece is fully submerged and coated. Lift each tender, allowing any excess liquid to drip back into the bowl before proceeding to the next step.
- Crush the Pretzels: Place the pretzels into a sturdy bowl or a food processor. Using a meat mallet, the bottom of a heavy glass, or the pulse function of a food processor, crush the pretzels into a fine, consistent crumb. Aim for a texture similar to breadcrumbs for the best adherence and crunch.
- Combine Breading Ingredients: In a separate shallow dish, mix the finely crushed pretzels with 1 cup of regular breadcrumbs and the remaining ½ teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breading mixture.
- Coat Chicken with Breading: Take each chicken tender, one at a time, from the wet mixture and thoroughly dredge it in the pretzel breading. Press firmly to ensure the coating adheres well to all sides of the chicken. Place the fully coated tenders on a clean plate or baking sheet, making sure they do not touch each other.
- Prepare Your Air Fryer: Lightly spray the inside of your air fryer basket with olive oil, avocado oil, or your preferred nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and promoting a beautiful golden-brown, crispy finish.
- Air Fry Chicken Tenders: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer within the air fryer basket. It’s vital not to overcrowd the basket; ensure there is adequate space between each piece to allow for optimal hot air circulation and crisping. You will likely need to cook the tenders in multiple batches (my basket typically accommodates about 4 tenders at a time). Once arranged, lightly spray the tops of the tenders with oil.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5-6 minutes. Carefully flip the tenders over and continue to air fry for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured with a reliable meat thermometer, and the pretzel crust is deliciously golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat and Serve: Remove the cooked tenders from the air fryer and repeat the cooking process with any remaining batches. Serve these delightful Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders immediately with your choice of dipping sauces, such as the honey-mustard mixture, a spicier hot honey mustard, classic spicy brown mustard, or tangy Dijon mustard.
Oven Baked Method:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a shallow dish, whisk together ½ cup honey mustard, 2 eggs, ½ tsp. paprika, ½ tsp. garlic powder, and ¼ tsp. pepper.
- Coat Chicken in Egg Wash: Add your chicken tenders to this egg mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Crush Pretzels: Crush the pretzels to a fine consistency. A food processor is highly recommended for the best results.
- Mix Breading Ingredients: Combine the crushed pretzels with the breadcrumbs and the remaining ½ tsp. paprika, ½ tsp. garlic powder, and ¼ tsp. pepper in another shallow dish.
- Coat Chicken with Breading: Dredge each chicken tender in the pretzel breading, pressing firmly to coat evenly on all sides. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they do not touch.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with oil (olive, avocado, or nonstick spray). This crucial step helps them achieve a desirable golden and crispy texture in the oven.
- Bake: Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through, the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Pretzel Chicken Ever
To ensure your pretzel-crusted chicken turns out perfectly golden and undeniably crispy every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Crush Pretzels Finely: This is arguably the most crucial step for achieving that signature crunch. The finer the pretzel crumbs, the more evenly they will coat the chicken, preventing any bare spots and ensuring a consistently crispy texture throughout. A food processor is ideal for creating a fine, flour-like consistency.
- Don’t Skimp on the Oil Spray: A light, even mist of cooking oil (such as olive oil, avocado oil, or a nonstick spray) applied to the outside of the coated tenders before cooking is vital. This oil helps the crust to brown beautifully and become extra crispy, whether you’re air frying or baking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: This is a common mistake that can lead to soggy chicken. Whether you’re using an air fryer basket or a baking sheet, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer with ample space between each piece. Overcrowding traps moisture, which will steam the chicken instead of crisping it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Flip Halfway Through: For both air frying and oven baking, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time is essential. This ensures even heat distribution, promoting uniform browning and crispiness on all sides of each tender.
- Always Check Internal Temperature: To guarantee safe consumption and prevent dry, overcooked chicken, always use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken tender; it should register 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked, juicy on the inside, and crispy on the outside.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Pretzel Crusted Chicken Strips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and flavor of your delicious pretzel crusted chicken. Store any leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, they still make for fantastic, quick meals later in the week.
When it comes to reheating, it’s important to avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that wonderful, crispy texture. The microwave will heat the chicken but often renders the crust soft and somewhat chewy. Instead, opt for methods that will help bring back their original crispiness:
- Air Fryer (Recommended Method): This is my top recommendation for reheating. Place the cold chicken strips in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and have regained their delightful crispiness.
- Oven or Toaster Oven: Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken tenders on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet (this allows air to circulate around all sides, promoting even crisping). Heat for 8-12 minutes, or until they are piping hot and crispy again.
- Skillet: If you don’t have an air fryer or prefer a stovetop method, a skillet can also work well. Heat a small amount of oil (or dry toast in a non-stick skillet for a lower-fat option) over medium heat. Pan-fry the strips for a few minutes per side until they are thoroughly heated and the crust is re-crisped.
What to Serve with Pretzel Crusted Chicken
These flavorful and wonderfully crunchy pretzel chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. This makes it easy to create a complete, balanced, and satisfying meal for any occasion. Here are some of my favorite recommendations, categorized for your convenience:
Fresh & Vibrant Salads:
Salads are always a fantastic accompaniment, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. They help balance the meal and contribute to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction!
- Zesty Lemon Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts: A peppery and bright option that cleanses the palate.
- Hearty Mediterranean Bean Salad: Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant, fresh flavors.
- Easy Lebanese Salad (Salata): A simple, fresh, and tangy salad with a delightful crunch.
- Classic Italian Salad: A reliable and flavorful salad with a medley of fresh vegetables.
- Simple Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette dressing for effortless freshness.
Nutritious Vegetable Sides:
Adding a vegetable side is an effortless and delicious way to boost the nutritional content of your meal. These options are quick to prepare and complement the chicken wonderfully!
- Simple Roasted Broccoli: Crispy, tender, and slightly caramelized – a family favorite.
- Flavorful Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower: Adds a beautiful golden hue and earthy, aromatic spice.
- Easy Skillet Green Beans: Cooked to tender-crisp perfection in just minutes.
- Roasted Asparagus: A simple yet elegant side, perfectly roasted with a hint of garlic.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweet and equally crispy alternative to regular fries.
Comforting Potato Dishes:
Potatoes are a beloved staple at our table and always provide a comforting, satisfying side. Their creamy or fluffy texture contrasts beautifully with the crispiness of the chicken.
- Cheesy Gouda Smashed Potatoes: Rich, creamy, and wonderfully textured with a crispy exterior.
- Spicy Lebanese Potatoes (Batata Harra): For those who appreciate a kick of heat and bold flavors.
- Garlicky Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Irresistibly crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and infused with aromatic garlic.
- Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A timeless, comforting side that pairs with anything.
- Homemade Potato Salad: A refreshing cold side, perfect for warmer weather meals.
Variations and Customizations for Your Pretzel Chicken
One of the best things about this Pretzel Crusted Chicken Recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your taste. Don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients!
- Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into your pretzel and breadcrumb coating. For a post-cooking flourish, drizzle the finished tenders with a touch of hot honey or your favorite spicy sauce.
- Cheese Infusion: For an extra layer of savory flavor, blend a few tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp cheddar into your pretzel and breadcrumb mixture before coating the chicken. The cheese will crisp up beautifully.
- Herbaceous Notes: Introduce an aromatic depth by incorporating dried herbs such as Italian seasoning, oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the dry breading mix. These herbs complement chicken wonderfully.
- Different Proteins: The pretzel crust isn’t just for chicken tenders! This delicious coating works equally well with other proteins. Try it on boneless pork chops, thin-cut turkey cutlets, or even sturdy fish fillets like cod or tilapia. Adjust cooking times as needed for different thicknesses and types of protein.
- Sweet & Salty Balance: Enhance the sweet and salty contrast by adding a teaspoon of brown sugar to your pretzel coating mixture. This subtle addition can truly elevate the flavor profile.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Simply use your favorite brand of gluten-free pretzels and ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free. Most other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pretzel Crusted Chicken
- Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?
- Yes, absolutely! If you only have boneless, skinless chicken breasts on hand, simply slice them lengthwise into 1-inch wide strips to create your own tenders. This ensures they cook evenly and have a similar texture and size to pre-packaged chicken tenderloins.
- What kind of pretzels are best for crushing?
- For the best results, thin pretzels (such as pretzel thins, small twists, or pretzel sticks) work most effectively. They are much easier to crush into a fine, consistent crumb, which is crucial for the coating to adhere well and create an evenly crispy crust. A food processor or a blender is highly recommended for achieving this fine texture.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, it’s very easy to adapt this recipe to be gluten-free! Simply ensure that you use certified gluten-free pretzels and gluten-free breadcrumbs. All other ingredients in the recipe (chicken, honey mustard, eggs, and spices) are naturally gluten-free.
- How can I make my own honey mustard dressing?
- Making homemade honey mustard is simple and allows for customization! Just whisk together equal parts mayonnaise, honey, and Dijon mustard. For an added tang, you can stir in a small splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
- Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
- You can certainly prepare and bread the chicken tenders a few hours in advance. After coating, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This can actually help the coating adhere even better. However, for the absolute crispiest results, it’s always best to cook them just before you plan to serve them.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer?
- No problem! This recipe includes detailed instructions for baking the chicken in a traditional oven. The oven-baked method also yields wonderfully crispy results, so you won’t miss out on the crunch even without an air fryer.
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Pretzel Crusted Chicken Recipe
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup honey mustard dressing
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp. paprika, divided
- 1 tsp. garlic powder, divided
- 1/2 tsp. pepper, divided
- 1 cup regular bread crumbs
- 2 cups everything bagel seasoned thin pretzels, {or regular thin pretzels}, finely crushed
- Spray oil
- Honey mustard , for dipping
Instructions
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In a shallow dish whisk together ½ cup honey mustard dressing, 2 eggs and 1/2 tsp. paprika, 1/2 tsp. garlic powder and 1/4 tsp. pepper.
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Add your chicken tenders to the egg mixture to coat.
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Crush up the pretzels to a fine consistency (I used a food processor).
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Mix the crushed pretzels with the bread crumbs and remaining paprika, garlic powder and pepper.
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Coat each tender in the pretzel mix and set aside.
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Spray the inside of your air fryer basket with oil.
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Place chicken tenders in a single layer, not touching in the basket. I can do about 4 in my basket.
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Spray the tops of the tenders with oil.
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Air fry at 400 for 5-6 minutes, flip and air fry another 5-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
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Repeat with remaining tenders.
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Serve with honey mustard dipping sauce.
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees and grease a baking sheet.
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In a shallow dish whisk together ½ cup honey mustard, 2 eggs and 1/2 tsp. paprika, 1/2 tsp. garlic powder and 1/4 tsp. pepper.
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Add your chicken tenders to the egg mixture to coat.
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Crush up the pretzels to a fine consistency (I used a food processor).
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Mix the crushed pretzels with the bread crumbs and remaining paprika, garlic powder and pepper.
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Coat each tender in the pretzel mix and set aside.
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Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet.
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Spray the tops of the tenders with oil.
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Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and browned and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.