Perfectly Crispy Chicken Nuggets

Chicken nuggets have been a family favorite for many years. This recipe is simple but incredibly tasty and easy to make at home! Enjoy these homemade chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup or blue cheese dip.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray for frying

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces: Slice each breast into 1-inch strips, ensuring that they are not too thick.
2. Mix the flour and seasonings: In a shallow bowl, mix all-purpose flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Set this aside.
3. Batter the chicken pieces: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, coating them completely on both sides. Then, place the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture to coat it again.
4. Fry the nuggets: Heat 1 inch of olive oil or cooking spray in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Serve immediately: Serve your crispy, delicious homemade chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce right away!

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken Nuggets

• Don't overcrowd the skillet: Make sure to cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in less crispy nuggets.
• Keep your oil hot: The ideal frying temperature for chicken nuggets is 350°F (175°C). If the oil cools down during cooking, wait until it reaches the right temperature again before adding more chicken pieces.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs: For the most crisp and delicious coating, use fresh panko breadcrumbs. They absorb less oil than regular breadcrumbs, making your nuggets extra crispy!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The following is an approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of homemade chicken nuggets:

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 30g

Cooking Time and Servings

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, with a cooking time of about 15-20 minutes. Prepare the chicken nuggets ahead of time by prepping all ingredients before starting to cook.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken nuggets are perfect for any family night in or game day treat! They're crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. With just a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy delicious, healthier chicken nuggets at home without compromising taste.