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Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets Kids Actually Love Easy Recipe

crispy homemade chicken nuggets - featured image

This recipe delivers crunchy, juicy homemade chicken nuggets that are quick, easy, and kid-approved. Perfect for family meals or snacks, with options to bake or fry.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into -inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 grams)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (150 grams)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 grams) (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying or brushing if baking

Instructions

  1. Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into roughly 1½-inch chunks, keeping pieces similar in size for even cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Whisk until evenly blended.
  3. Beat 2 large eggs in a second bowl until smooth. In a third bowl, mix 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Working in batches, dredge each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten egg, letting extra drip off. Finally, roll in the panko-Parmesan mix, pressing gently so crumbs stick well. Place coated pieces on a plate or tray.
  5. For frying: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Test readiness by dropping a breadcrumb – it should sizzle immediately. Fry nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to turn carefully. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
  6. For baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place coated nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush with oil to help crisping. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
  7. Let nuggets rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Notes

For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken by dipping twice in egg and breadcrumbs. Let coated nuggets rest for 10 minutes before cooking to help breading adhere better. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F when frying. Use panko breadcrumbs for lighter, crispier texture. For baking, use a wire rack over the baking sheet to keep nuggets crispy all around. Avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet.

Nutrition

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