Here’s a crispy and easy Chicken Nuggets recipe — perfect for a homemade, kid-friendly meal.
🍗 Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the chicken
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces (1–2 inches).
- Season with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Set up breading station
- Place flour in one bowl.
- Beat eggs in a second bowl.
- Mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan in a third bowl.
3️⃣ Bread the chicken
- Dredge each piece in flour, shake off excess.
- Dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4️⃣ Cook the nuggets
Frying method:
- Heat 1/4 inch vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry nuggets 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain on paper towels.
Oven-baked method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place nuggets on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
5️⃣ Serve
- Serve with ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Extra crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for a lighter, crispier coating.
- Flavor variations: Add cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
- Make ahead: Breaded nuggets can be frozen on a tray before cooking for a quick meal later.
If you want, I can also give you an air fryer chicken nuggets recipe that’s extra crispy and uses less oil.
Do you want that version?