fried chicken nuggets recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best fried chicken nuggets recipe

I’ve been making this fried chicken nuggets recipe for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love the crispy exterior and juicy interior, and I love how easy it is to make. The recipe has its roots in Southern American cuisine, where fried chicken is a staple.

The key to making great fried chicken nuggets is to use a combination of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and spices to create a crispy coating. This recipe uses buttermilk to add moisture and tenderness to the chicken. I like to serve these nuggets with a side of honey mustard dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a family gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also relatively healthy compared to other fried foods. By using whole wheat flour and baking powder, we can reduce the amount of unhealthy ingredients in the coating.

My family loves this recipe so much that we often request it for special occasions. I’ve even served it at potlucks and parties, and everyone raves about it. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just mix together the coating ingredients, dip the chicken in buttermilk, and coat with the mixture before frying.

It’s a game-changer for busy parents like me who need a reliable recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Crispy Fried Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Fried Chicken Nuggets

4.7 from 1667 votes

These homemade chicken nuggets are tender on the inside and perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside. They are easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and are a hit with both kids and adults.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Nuggets

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth.
3Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
4Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
5Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the panko breadcrumbs.
6Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to help them adhere.
7Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers, around 350°F.
8To test, drop a breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
9Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil in a single layer, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
10Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once with tongs, until the nuggets are deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
11Transfer the cooked nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
12Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the coating to stay crisp.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Shallow dishes
Large skillet or deep fryer
Paper towels
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs and do not skip the resting step after frying. You can also bake the nuggets at 425°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter version.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Fried Chicken Nuggets Works

This fried chicken nuggets recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration with family and friends.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.

You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Chicken Nuggets

Q: What type of flour should I use for the coating?

In this recipe, we use a combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour for added nutrition and texture.

Q: Can I use different types of meat instead of chicken?

While you can experiment with other meats like beef or pork, chicken is the classic choice for fried nuggets due to its tender texture and mild flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover nuggets?

After cooking, let the nuggets cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying them?

You can bake these nuggets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover nuggets?

To reheat leftover nuggets, place them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flours like almond or coconut flour in place of traditional flours.

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