Are you ready to elevate your chicken nugget game? Look no further! Our crispy, fried homemade chicken nuggets are a culinary masterpiece that will surpass your expectations. Forget about the fast-food versions; these nuggets are quick, easy, and, dare I say it, even better than what you get at restaurants.

Ingredients Needed:

Let’s start by assembling the dream team of ingredients. Gather the following pantry essentials:

Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also experiment with boneless thighs for a different flavor profile.

Flour: Feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if you’re on a gluten-free journey.

Garlic Powder: A hint of garlic adds depth to the flavor.

Paprika: This spice brings a smoky and slightly sweet undertone.

Onion Powder: For that savory, oniony goodness.

Salt and Black Pepper: The dynamic duo that enhances every bite.

Eggs: They play a crucial role in creating the perfect coating for our nuggets.

Making the Perfect Chicken Nugget

Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks, ensuring each piece is a nugget-sized delight.

Create the Coating: In a shallow medium bowl, combine the flour with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk this aromatic blend together with a fork.

Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until they form a smooth mixture.

Breading Process: Coat each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and once again in the flour. For an extra crispy coating, repeat this breading step.

Fry to Perfection: In a Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, or using a large skillet or pan, fry the chicken nuggets in batches until they achieve a glorious golden brown and crispy texture. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, placing them on a large baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Alternative Cooking Method: Baking

If you lean towards a healthier approach, you can opt for baking. Simply coat the chicken in seasoned bread crumbs instead of flour after the egg coating. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack, drizzle with oil, and bake at 220ºC/430ºF for 10-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown, crisp, and tender.

Freezing and Make-Ahead Tips

Freezing: Bread the chicken nuggets following the instructions, then lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, transfer to a freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, fry them from frozen until they achieve a golden brown and crisp perfection.

Make Ahead: Cooked nuggets can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat them in a hot oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are chicken nuggets made of?

This chicken nugget recipe boasts boneless, skinless chicken breasts, all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, eggs, and vegetable oil.

Can chicken nuggets be made gluten-free?

While this recipe hasn’t been tested with gluten-free flour, feel free to experiment and share your gluten-free success story!

Are chicken nuggets dairy-free?

This recipe is a dairy-free delight. Can this recipe be made in the air fryer? While reheating in the air fryer is a fantastic option, we found that making them from raw in the air fryer didn’t quite capture the original recipe’s crispy magic. The breading tended to remain fairly dry without that special crispiness we all crave