Description
These crispy, juicy homemade chicken nuggets are a family favorite with simple, savory flavor. Made with pantry staples, they’re perfect for quick meals, snacks, or lunchboxes. Skip pork and alcohol to meet halal or non-alcoholic preferences.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, optional
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/3 cup neutral cooking oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil, for pan-frying
Your favorite dipping sauce, for serving
Instructions
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then cut them into small, even 1 1/2-inch pieces
Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika
Add flour to the first shallow bowl. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese if using, and dried parsley
Dip one chicken piece into the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, press into the panko until fully coated. Repeat with all chicken pieces
Heat oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through
Transfer cooked nuggets to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce
Notes
Optional: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Adjust seasoning to taste, such as adding cayenne for heat or dried herbs like oregano.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes for optimal crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 chicken nuggets
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 160mg