Chicken nuggets are a family favorite that is usually associated with fast food restaurants. However, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients resulting in a healthier option that kids love. This homemade chicken nugget recipe uses simple ingredients and includes instructions for frying, air frying, or baking so you can prepare them to your liking.
1. Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable, canola or peanut oil)
Instructions
Breading the Chicken Pieces
Step 1: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another shallow dish, and the breadcrumbs mixed with the garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt and pepper in another.
Step 2: Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture first, coating all sides. Dip the floured chicken pieces in the beaten egg next, allowing any excess to drip off.
Step 3: Finally, place the egg-coated chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere.
Frying Method
In a large skillet, heat at least 1⁄2 inch of frying oil to 350°F over medium-high heat. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, fry chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, transfer your chicken nuggets to a plate. Sprinkle chicken with additional salt if desired while hot. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
Air Frying Method
Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
Follow steps 1 – 3 above for breading the chicken pieces.
Lightly brush or spray chicken pieces with olive oil. Then place them in air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is golden brown and crispy.
Repeat with remaining chicken pieces in batches as needed. Sprinkle with additional salt while hot if desired.
Oven-Baking Method
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
Follow steps 1 – 3 above for breading the chicken pieces.
Arrange chicken pieces on prepared baking sheet without overcrowding. Lightly spray tops with olive oil.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, gently flipping halfway, until crisp and golden brown.
If chicken pieces are very thick, bake a few extra minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Sprinkle with salt while hot if desired.
Serve homemade nuggets with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard or your favorites. Customize your homemade nugget recipe by using spiced panko crumbs or experimenting with different cuts of chicken. This easy homemade recipe makes chicken nuggets better than any fast food with ingredients you control.
