Homemade Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Remember those days of childhood when chicken nuggets were the ultimate treat? Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. As a parent now, I wanted to recreate that magic for my own kids, but with a healthier, homemade twist. After countless trials and tweaks, this recipe for homemade chicken nuggets has become a family staple. Honestly, they disappear faster than I can make them! The kids adore them, and I love knowing exactly what’s going into their food – no mystery ingredients or excessive sodium here. These nuggets are incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and bake up beautifully crispy, making them a guilt-free weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack. Prepare to be amazed at how much better homemade nuggets are than anything you can buy in a store!

Ingredients

To make these delicious homemade chicken nuggets, you’ll need the following fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. We’ve focused on simple, wholesome components to ensure both flavor and healthiness.

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The foundation of our nuggets! Opt for high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful nugget, though breasts offer a leaner option.
• 1 cup Buttermilk: Buttermilk is the secret to incredibly tender and juicy chicken nuggets. It tenderizes the chicken and helps the breading adhere beautifully. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
• 1 Large Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and adding richness to the coating.
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are larger and flakier than regular breadcrumbs. They create an incredibly crispy and light coating that is perfect for nuggets. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture will be slightly different.
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour: Flour helps to create a base layer for the breadcrumbs to stick to, ensuring a well-coated nugget. You can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour blends for a gluten-free option.
• 1/4 cup Cornstarch: Cornstarch adds extra crispness to the nuggets and helps to create a light and airy coating.
• 2 teaspoons Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the nuggets. You can use sweet paprika or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: Thyme adds a hint of earthy, herbaceous flavor that elevates the nuggets. You can substitute with other dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt enhances all the flavors and is crucial for seasoning the chicken and breading. Adjust to your taste preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for the best flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For a subtle kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Omit if you prefer a milder flavor, especially when serving to young children.
• Vegetable Oil or Olive Oil Spray: For baking, we’ll use oil spray to lightly coat the nuggets for even browning and crisping. If frying, you’ll need enough vegetable oil to fill a skillet to about 1 inch depth.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfect homemade chicken nuggets every time. Whether you choose to bake, fry, or air fry, we’ve got you covered!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture and helps with browning. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized nugget pieces, about 1-1.5 inches in size. Aim for relatively uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Smaller pieces will cook faster and crisp up more, while larger pieces will be juicier but may take longer.
2. Buttermilk Bath: Place the cut chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all the chicken is submerged in the buttermilk. This is a crucial step for tenderizing the chicken and adding flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates in buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations

1. Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish or pie plate, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. This flour mixture will be the first layer of our breading, helping the egg wash and breadcrumbs adhere properly.
2. Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, lightly whisk the egg. The egg wash will act as a “glue” between the flour mixture and the breadcrumbs, creating a cohesive and crispy coating.
3. Panko Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow dish, pour the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure you have enough panko to fully coat all the nuggets. If you are using regular breadcrumbs, you may want to season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Nuggets

1. Dredge in Flour: Remove a few chicken pieces at a time from the buttermilk, letting any excess buttermilk drip back into the bowl. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour. This initial flour coating is essential for the breadcrumbs to stick properly and create a crispy crust.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip each floured chicken piece into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess egg wash drip off. The egg wash will create a moist surface for the breadcrumbs to adhere to.
3. Coat in Panko: Finally, dredge each egg-washed chicken piece in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to all sides. Make sure the nuggets are completely covered in panko for maximum crispiness.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet (for baking/air frying): If baking or air frying, place the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. For baking, lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with vegetable oil or olive oil spray. This will help them brown and crisp up in the oven.

Step 4: Cooking Methods

Option 1: Baking (Healthier Option)

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake: Bake the chicken nuggets for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Baking is a healthier option as it uses less oil and still yields crispy and delicious nuggets.
3. Rest: Let the baked nuggets rest for a few minutes before serving.

Option 2: Frying (Classic Crispy Option)

1. Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, or test with a small piece of breadcrumb – it should sizzle gently and turn golden brown in about 15-20 seconds.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the breaded chicken nuggets to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy nuggets.
3. Fry Until Golden Brown: Fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried nuggets with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. A wire rack helps to keep the nuggets crispy as air circulates around them.

Option 3: Air Frying (Quick and Crispy Option)

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Air Fry: Place the breaded chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the nuggets with vegetable oil or olive oil spray.
3. Air Fry Until Golden Brown: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Air frying is a faster and slightly healthier alternative to frying, offering crispy results with less oil.
4. Rest: Let the air-fried nuggets rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your delicious homemade chicken nuggets immediately while they are hot and crispy. They are perfect with a variety of dipping sauces and side dishes. See our “How to Serve” section for serving suggestions.

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate values per serving, based on baking method and using 4 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 nuggets (about 4 oz or 113g)
• Servings per Recipe: 4-6 servings (depending on nugget size and portion)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Fat: 15-20g
• Saturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 100-120mg
• Sodium: 400-500mg (can be adjusted based on salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 2-3g
• Protein: 25-30g

Important Notes:

• These are estimated nutritional values and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking method. Frying will increase the fat and calorie content compared to baking or air frying.
• Using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts will result in higher fat content but may also increase flavor.
• To reduce sodium, use low-sodium breadcrumbs (if available) and adjust salt to your preference.
• For a more accurate nutritional analysis, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes chicken cutting, buttermilk marinating, and breading preparation)
• Cook Time:
  • Baking: 20-25 minutes
  • Frying: 10-15 minutes (depending on batch size)
  • Air Frying: 12-15 minutes (depending on air fryer model)
• Total Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour (depending on cooking method and batch size)

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, especially if you opt for baking or air frying. The buttermilk marinating time can be done in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

How to Serve

These homemade chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Classic Dipping Sauces:

• Ketchup: The all-time favorite for nuggets!
• Mustard: Honey mustard, Dijon mustard, or yellow mustard – all great options.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, ranch is a classic pairing.
• BBQ Sauce: Sweet and smoky BBQ sauce complements the savory nuggets perfectly.
• Honey: A simple drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness.
• Sweet and Sour Sauce: For an Asian-inspired twist.

Creative Dipping Sauces (Homemade or Store-Bought):

• Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy and garlicky, aioli adds a sophisticated touch.
• Cheese Sauce: Warm cheese sauce, like cheddar or nacho cheese, is a decadent option.
• Avocado Crema: Blend avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro for a fresh and vibrant dip.
• Buffalo Sauce: Toss the cooked nuggets in buffalo sauce for buffalo chicken nuggets.

Side Dishes to Complete the Meal:

• French Fries: Classic pairing! Homemade or store-bought fries are always a hit.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier and slightly sweeter alternative to regular fries.
• Tater Tots: Crispy and fun, tater tots are another kid-friendly favorite.
• Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting side dish.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the nuggets.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, peas, or green beans for a healthier meal.
• Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad adds freshness and balance.
• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad for a sweet ending.

Serving Ideas for Different Occasions:

• Kid-Friendly Meal: Serve nuggets with fries, ketchup, and a side of fruit or vegetables for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
• Party Appetizer: Arrange nuggets on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Game Day Snack: Serve buffalo chicken nuggets with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a game day snack.
• Lunchbox Treat: Pack cooled nuggets in a lunchbox with a small container of dipping sauce and some healthy sides like carrot sticks and grapes.

Additional Tips for Perfect Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Here are five essential tips to ensure your homemade chicken nuggets are consistently delicious and crispy:

1. Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Soak: The buttermilk marinade is crucial for tenderizing the chicken and ensuring juicy nuggets. It also helps the breading adhere better, resulting in a crispier coating. If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute soak will make a difference. For even more flavor, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the buttermilk marinade.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Maximum Crispiness: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, creating a lighter and crispier coating. They also absorb less oil when fried, resulting in less greasy nuggets. If you can’t find panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture will be slightly denser. For extra crispy nuggets, you can lightly toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet before using them.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan or Air Fryer: Whether you are frying, baking, or air frying, avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer basket. Overcrowding lowers the temperature and steams the nuggets instead of browning and crisping them. Cook in batches to ensure each nugget has enough space to cook evenly and get crispy. For air frying, work in smaller batches to allow for proper air circulation.
4. Ensure Chicken is Cooked Through: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken nuggets. They are cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is crucial for food safety. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a nugget to get an accurate reading. Overcooking can lead to dry nuggets, so check for doneness towards the end of the cooking time.
5. Experiment with Spices and Seasonings: This recipe is a great base, but feel free to customize the flavor profile by experimenting with different spices and seasonings. Try adding chili powder for a southwestern flavor, Italian seasoning for an Italian twist, or curry powder for an exotic flavor. You can also adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor or a dash of onion flakes for added texture and flavor in the breading.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about making homemade chicken nuggets:

Q1: Can I make these chicken nuggets ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken nuggets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to cook, bake, fry, or air fry as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed, especially if they are very cold from the refrigerator. You can also freeze breaded, uncooked nuggets for longer storage (see Q2).

Q2: Can I freeze homemade chicken nuggets?

A: Absolutely! Homemade chicken nuggets freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping. To freeze uncooked nuggets, place the breaded nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2-3 months. To cook from frozen, bake, fry, or air fry as directed, but increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure they are cooked through. You can also freeze cooked nuggets, but they may not be as crispy when reheated.

Q3: Can I make these chicken nuggets gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make these chicken nuggets gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free. There are many gluten-free panko and breadcrumb options available in most grocery stores. Double-check the ingredient list of all your components to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Q4: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs will result in more flavorful and slightly more tender nuggets due to their higher fat content. However, chicken breasts are leaner and offer a healthier option. The cooking time will be similar for both chicken breasts and thighs.

Q5: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a quick substitute. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. The mixture will slightly thicken and curdle, creating a good buttermilk alternative. You can also use plain yogurt thinned with a little milk to achieve a similar consistency and tenderizing effect.

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