Name: Crispy Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into nugget-size pieces); 200 mL milk (Just over 3/4 cup); 1 tbsp paprika; 65 g flour (Plus salt to season); 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 large eggs (about 100 g), beaten; 250 g cornflakes (Crushed); 2 tbsp sunflower oil (For brushing)

Crispy Chicken Nuggets are a delightful treat that can turn any meal into a festive occasion. These nuggets are not only easy to make, but they also pack a flavor punch that appeals to children and adults alike. Whether you are hosting a party, looking for an easy weeknight dinner option, or just craving something crispy and delicious, homemade chicken nuggets fit the bill perfectly.

Creating your own batch of Crispy Chicken Nuggets allows you to ensure freshness and customize flavors to suit your preference. Unlike store-bought varieties, these nuggets can be seasoned to perfection while still being simple to prepare. The combination of marinating the chicken, a triple coating process, and the use of cornflakes for added crunch makes them incredibly different from any frozen alternative. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, or alongside a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.

Why make this recipe

Making Crispy Chicken Nuggets at home not only guarantees healthier ingredients but also offers an opportunity for fun in the kitchen. Children love participating in the process, from dipping the chicken to watching the nuggets bake to golden perfection. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless flavor variations, whether you prefer traditional flavors or bold spices. Homemade nuggets also ensure that you can control the amount of salt and fat, making it a preferable choice for health-conscious eaters.

Moreover, these nuggets have the added benefit of being great for meal prepping. By making a larger batch, you can enjoy these delightful bites multiple times throughout the week. They can be easily reheated and enjoyed with various sides, making them a practical choice for busy individuals or families trying to balance nutrition with convenience. It’s an investment in deliciousness that pays off with every bite.

How to make Crispy Chicken Nuggets

You will start the process by preparing the chicken, cutting boneless, skinless breasts into nugget-sized pieces. To infuse flavor, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of milk and paprika. This step not only adds a depth of taste but also helps to keep the chicken moist. After a couple of hours of marinating, the fun begins with the coating process. You need to set up three separate stations—one for the seasoned flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the crushed cornflakes. This setup allows for a smooth and efficient breading process, ensuring every chicken piece is adequately coated.

Each piece of marinated chicken gets coated in the flour mixture, dipped into the egg, and finally rolled in cornflakes, which provide that irresistible crispiness when baked. Once coated, the nuggets are placed on a lined baking sheet and lightly brushed with sunflower oil to aid in achieving a golden, crispy exterior. Cooking involves two phases: first, baking at a lower temperature to ensure they are cooked through, followed by a higher temperature to encourage browning and crispiness.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into nugget-size pieces)
Just over 3/4 cup (200 mL) milk
1 tbsp paprika
1/2 cup (65 g) flour
Salt (to season the flour)
1 tsp garlic powder
2 large eggs (about 100 g), beaten
4 cups (250 g) cornflakes
2 tbsp sunflower oil

Directions

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-size nugget pieces.
In a bowl, combine chicken, milk, and paprika. Mix well, cover, and marinate for 2 hours.
Set up 3 coating stations: Step 1: Mix flour, salt, and garlic powder on a plate. Step 2: Put beaten eggs in a bowl/plate. Step 3: Crush cornflakes in a freezer bag and spread on a plate.
Coat each piece of marinated chicken: flour mixture (step 1) → egg (step 2) → crushed cornflakes (step 3).
Place nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or lightly brush with sunflower oil.
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes, then increase to 400°F (210°C) and bake 5 minutes more, until crispy and cooked through.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

How to serve Crispy Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to serving Crispy Chicken Nuggets, the possibilities are virtually endless. They are perfect as a main dish, paired with a variety of sides such as French fries, coleslaw, or a vibrant salad to add some freshness. For kids, consider pairing the nuggets with a selection of dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a tangy ranch. These sauces not only enhance the flavor but also provide a fun interactive element to the meal.

For adults, you might opt for a more gourmet touch by serving the nuggets with homemade aioli or spicy sriracha mayo. A side of roasted veggies or sweet potato wedges can elevate the meal further, transforming a simple chicken nugget dish into an impressive dinner spread. You can also serve the nuggets in wraps or as sliders for a fun party food option.

How to store Crispy Chicken Nuggets

Leftover Crispy Chicken Nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the nuggets cool completely before sealing them in a container to prevent them from getting soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked nuggets. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze initially. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen nuggets, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the nuggets rubbery; reheating in the oven preserves their original delightful crunch.

Tips to make Crispy Chicken Nuggets

To elevate your Crispy Chicken Nuggets experience, there are several tips worth considering. Ensure that the chicken is patted dry before marinating to maximize the flavor absorption. When marinating the chicken, try to do it overnight if time allows, for even deeper flavor. For the cornflakes, using a rolling pin or a food processor can help achieve uniform crumbs that adhere better to the chicken, ensuring every piece is crispy.

Experimenting with different seasonings in the flour mixture can also add a unique twist to your chicken nuggets. You might consider adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or Italian seasoning for a more herbed flavor profile. To maximize the crispiness, make sure to use enough oil when brushing before baking; this will help create that coveted golden exterior.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 23 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 350 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier nugget, though they will have a different flavor profile.

Q: Can the nuggets be made in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! You can air fry the nuggets at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

Q: How do I know when the chicken nuggets are cooked through?
A: The internal temperature of the chicken nuggets should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.