If there’s one thing that never fails to put a smile on anyone’s face, it’s a plate of crispy, golden chicken nuggets. Whether you’re a kid or a grown-up kid at heart, these bite-sized delights are a universal favorite.

Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for homemade chicken nuggets that are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make.

Originating as a popular fast food item, chicken nuggets have found their place in kitchens around the world. While the store-bought versions are convenient, there’s something special about crafting your own from scratch.

With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of frying magic, you can create nuggets that rival any restaurant’s.

Now, you might think making chicken nuggets at home is a daunting task, reserved only for culinary wizards. But fear not! This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With step-by-step instructions and handy tips, you’ll be frying up crispy nuggets in no time.

Expert Tip: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken nuggets. If the oil isn’t hot, the nuggets may absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts provide lean protein and a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy coating.

Plain Flour: Flour serves as the base for the coating, helping to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken and create that signature crunch.

Garlic Powder: Adding garlic powder to the flour mixture enhances the savory flavor profile of the nuggets, giving them an extra kick of deliciousness.

Paprika: Paprika brings a subtle smokiness and warmth to the coating, elevating the overall taste of the nuggets.

Salt: Salt not only seasons the chicken but also helps to balance the flavors and bring out the natural taste of the ingredients.

Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent, allowing the breadcrumb coating to adhere to the chicken pieces and create a crispy outer layer.

Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs provide the essential crunch factor to the nuggets, giving them their irresistible texture.

Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying the nuggets, ensuring they cook evenly and achieve that golden brown exterior.

Expert Tip: For extra crispy chicken nuggets, double dip them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the chicken nuggets hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
• Pair the nuggets with classic side dishes like french fries, coleslaw, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.
• For a fun twist, turn your chicken nuggets into sliders by sandwiching them between mini burger buns with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of condiments.
• Arrange the nuggets on a platter with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• Customize your nuggets by adding grated cheese or spices to the breadcrumb coating for an extra flavor boost.

Expert Tip: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Fry the chicken nuggets in batches, leaving enough space between each piece to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before cutting them into nugget-sized pieces.

Can I bake the chicken nuggets instead of frying them?

Absolutely! To bake the nuggets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Can I freeze the chicken nuggets for later?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked nuggets for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying or baking.

How can I ensure the chicken nuggets are cooked through?

To ensure the nuggets are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the nuggets should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Can I make gluten-free chicken nuggets?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Battered Chicken Nuggets
• Fish Nuggets
• Breaded Chicken Nuggets
• Chicken Fingers
• Chicken Tenders

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Chicken Nuggets

by Nabeela Kauser

Discover the joy of homemade chicken nuggets. A fun, DIY alternative to fast food favourites, these nuggets are a delight to make and devour. No culinary expertise needed! 

5 from 3 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Appetiser

Cuisine American, British, Western

Servings 4

Calories 353 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 2 Chicken Breasts Cut into small nugget-sized pieces
• ▢ 100 g Plain Flour
• ▢ 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Paprika
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Salt
• ▢ 2 Eggs Beaten
• ▢ 100 g Breadcrumbs
• ▢ Vegetable Oil For frying

Instructions

• Cut two chicken breasts into small nugget-sized pieces.
• In a bowl, mix together 100g of plain flour, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of paprika, and 1/2 tsp of salt.
• Beat two eggs in another bowl and place 100g of breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
• Dip each chicken piece first into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
• Heat up enough vegetable oil in a large frying pan to cover the bottom by about 1 cm and wait until the oil is hot.
• Add the coated chicken nuggets to the hot oil and cook for around 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Transfer the cooked nuggets to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon to drain off any excess oil.
• Repeat the process until all the chicken nuggets are cooked.
• Serve the chicken nuggets hot with your choice of dipping sauce (e.g. ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, etc.).

Notes

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 353kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 33gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 154mgSodium: 637mgPotassium: 536mgFibre: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 191IUVitamin C: 3mgVitamin D: 1µgCalcium: 68mgIron: 3mg

Keyword Chicken, Food, Kids Snacks, Nuggets, Party Food, Recipe, Snack

Tried this recipe?Mention @CookwithNabeela or tag #CookwithNabeela!