These Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Bites are a fun and flavorful twist on classic chicken nuggets! We’re talking tender, juicy chicken coated in a crunchy pretzel crust that’s baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or a casual weeknight dinner. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or spicy cheese sauce, for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main course. Get ready to enjoy a crunchy and delicious chicken experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy and Flavorful: The pretzel crust adds a unique and satisfying crunch to these chicken bites, while the simple seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, with just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients.
Versatile: These chicken bites are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant appetizers.
Kid-Friendly: The fun and crunchy coating makes these chicken bites a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Bites:

Skinless, boneless chicken breasts or tenders: Choose your preferred cut of chicken.
Whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken before dipping it in the egg and pretzel mixture.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
Large eggs: Beaten, they help the pretzel crust adhere to the chicken.
Finely crushed pretzels: Creates a crunchy and flavorful coating.
Nonstick spray: Such as PAM, olive oil spray, or coconut oil spray, used to lightly coat the chicken bites before baking.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Coating Stations

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or coat it heavily with nonstick spray.
If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness and cut them into 1-1.5 inch pieces. If using chicken tenders, simply cut them into 1-1.5 inch pieces.
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with finely crushed pretzels.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Bites

Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured chicken piece in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
Generously roll the chicken piece in the crushed pretzels, pressing lightly to ensure the pretzels adhere.
Place the coated chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray each chicken bite with nonstick spray to “seal” the breading and help it bake onto the chicken.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Bake the chicken bites for 8 minutes.
Turn each piece over and continue baking for another 6-8 minutes, or until the outside is crisp and golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve the chicken bites hot with toothpicks (if using as an appetizer), honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature cream cheese: Room temperature cream cheese will be easier to beat and create a smoother base for the salad.
Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the salad runny. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined.
Chill thoroughly: Chilling the salad for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld and the salad to set properly.

How to Serve

Appetizer: Serve these Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Bites with toothpicks and your favorite dipping sauces for a fun and flavorful appetizer.
Main course: Pair them with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Snack: Enjoy them as a tasty and protein-packed snack any time of day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of coating?

Yes, you can substitute the crushed pretzels with other crunchy coatings, such as panko breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even crushed tortilla chips.

Can I fry these chicken bites instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the chicken bites in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. However, baking them is a healthier option.

Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat the chicken bites and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before baking.

Can I freeze these chicken bites?

Yes, you can freeze baked chicken bites for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Enjoy these crunchy and delicious Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Bites!