Chicken Nuggets – These homemade chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect bite-sized snack or meal. Made with fresh chicken breast, seasoned to perfection, and coated in a crunchy breading.
Why Homemade Chicken Nuggets Are the Best
Homemade chicken nuggets are incredibly customizable, and you can adjust the seasonings and cooking methods to your preference. By making them from scratch, you’re able to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful alternative to store-bought nuggets. Homemade versions are free from preservatives, excessive sodium, and the mystery ingredients often found in pre-packaged products.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Nuggets
- Even Coating: Ensure that each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the flour mixture, followed by the egg wash and breadcrumbs. This will create a thicker, crispier crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If frying, overcrowding can result in soggy nuggets. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve a crispy result.
- Resting Time: After coating the chicken, let it rest for 10 minutes before frying or baking. This helps the breading adhere better.
- Add Spice: Feel free to adjust the spices in the breadcrumb mixture. Adding cayenne pepper or chili powder can give your nuggets a spicy kick.
How To Make Fried Chicken Nuggets?
For the baked version, check the recipe card below.
- Follow the steps up to the breading of the chicken as instructed below.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1/2 cup of vegetable oil.
- Add the chicken pieces and fry them for about 4 – 5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy or the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
How To These Chicken Nuggets In Air fryer?
- Preheat air fryer at 400ºF for 8-10 minutes.
- Follow the steps up to the breading as directed below.
- In a single layer, place chicken in the air fryer basket.
- Spray the chicken nuggets with little olive oil spray and cook for about 7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
- Do not overcook and cook them in batches.
Variations on Classic Chicken Nuggets
- Spicy Chicken Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo.
- Chicken Nugget Tenders: If you prefer a larger version, cut the chicken into strips instead of chunks to make tenders.
- Cheesy Chicken Nuggets: Mix some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the breadcrumb coating for cheesy nuggets. You’ll love the melty surprise inside!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How to Store Chicken Nuggets
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked or uncooked nuggets. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer for 20-25 minutes.
Storing in the Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
How to Serve Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:
- As an Appetizer: Serve a platter of crispy chicken nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces, perfect for parties and gatherings.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap: Place nuggets on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious chicken nugget sandwich.
- As a Main Dish: Pair the nuggets with a side of mashed potatoes, veggies, or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully! They offer a bit more flavor and moisture, but be sure to remove the bones and skin before cutting them into chunks.
Q: Can I make chicken nuggets without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes, panko, or even ground nuts for a unique texture.
Q: How can I make my nuggets even crunchier?
A: Double-coat your chicken by dipping it back in the egg wash and breadcrumbs after the first coating. For extra crunch, you can also add a small amount of crushed crackers to the breadcrumb mixture.
Q: Can I bake frozen chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can bake frozen homemade chicken nuggets directly in the oven without thawing. Simply extend the baking time to 25-30 minutes.
Chicken Nuggets - (Baked + Fried)
Chicken Nuggets - These homemade chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect bite-sized snack or meal. Made with fresh chicken breast, seasoned to perfection, and coated in a crunchy breading.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pound chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, cut into even 1-inch cubes
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3/4 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Set a large wire rack over the baking sheet and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pour the panko crumbs on a separate baking sheet, spread into an even layer, drizzle with little olive oil and toss them.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 3-5 minutes or until slightly toasted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and place it into a bowl. Add thyme, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix.
- In another bowl beat the eggs, add little salt and pepper and whisk together.
- Dip the chicken pieces in egg bowl, then transfer to panko mixture, toss well and transfer to prepared wire rack.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 15 - 19 minutes or until crispy and golden brown and the internal temperature at center reaches 165 degrees.
- Done! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Variation - To give it extra crisp and crunchy, dust with grated parmesan cheese on the top and then bake.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
6Amount Per Serving Calories 396Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 158mgSodium 421mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 42g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Still Hungry! Try These Other Delicious Chicken Recipes:
- Easy Chinese Pineapple Chicken Bowl
- Best Chicken Vegetable Soup
- Chicken Salad with Grapes and Almonds
- Pan Fried Chicken Thighs
Chicken nuggets are an easy and delicious meal that can be enjoyed by all ages. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can create restaurant-quality nuggets at home. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, the result will be crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out!
