Chicken nuggets are a beloved snack and meal favorite for kids and adults alike. While store-bought nuggets are convenient, making your own chicken nuggets at home is surprisingly easy, healthier, and tastier. If you’ve ever wondered, how do you make chicken nuggets that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this guide is for you! Let’s dive into a step-by-step recipe that will have you enjoying homemade nuggets in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make delicious chicken nuggets from scratch, gather the following ingredients:
– Chicken: 1 to 1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Seasonings: Onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, salt, and sugar (about 1 teaspoon each)
– Breading: All-purpose flour (1 cup), plain breadcrumbs (1 cup), and 2 large eggs
– Others: Cornstarch (¼ cup), water (¼ cup), and vegetable oil for frying (3-4 cups)
Optional additions include Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for extra flavor in the breading.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by mincing the chicken breasts. You can use a food processor to finely chop the chicken until it resembles ground meat. Then, add the spices—onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, salt, and sugar—along with cornstarch and water. Process everything together until well combined. This mixture forms the base of your nuggets and ensures they are flavorful and tender.
2. Shape the Nuggets
Using a tablespoon measure (about 1 ½ tablespoons), scoop the chicken mixture and shape it into small rectangular or round nugget shapes with your hands. Place the shaped nuggets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about 30 minutes to help them firm up, which makes frying easier and keeps the nuggets intact.
3. Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three shallow bowls or trays:
– One with all-purpose flour
– One with beaten eggs
– One with plain breadcrumbs (you can mix in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for a tastier crust)
This three-step breading process ensures a crispy coating that sticks well to the chicken.
4. Bread the Nuggets
Take each nugget and dredge it first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy crust, you can double-dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
5. Fry the Nuggets
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the nuggets in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for about 6-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Nuggets
– Partial Freeze Chicken: Slightly freezing the chicken breasts before cutting helps you slice even pieces, making cooking uniform and easier.
– Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil between 350-375°F. Too low and the nuggets absorb oil and become greasy; too high and they burn on the outside before cooking inside.
– Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Regular breadcrumbs give a smooth crust, but panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier texture.
– Air Fryer Option: For a healthier twist, air fry the breaded nuggets at 400°F for about 7 minutes. Spray them lightly with oil for crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken nuggets are versatile and go well with a variety of dipping sauces. Try honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or even sweet and sour sauce. Pair them with fries, a fresh salad, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Why Make Chicken Nuggets at Home?
Making chicken nuggets yourself means you control the quality of ingredients—no preservatives or fillers. It’s a fun cooking project that’s quick (ready in about 30 minutes) and budget-friendly. Plus, homemade nuggets taste fresher and can be customized to your family’s flavor preferences.
Enjoy your homemade chicken nuggets crispy, juicy, and full of flavor!
Chicken nuggets are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and enjoy a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought nuggets.