Name: Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken breasts; Salt and pepper; 1/2 cup Flour; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Ground pepper; 2 pieces Eggs; 1/2 cup Water; 1/4 cup Cornstarch; Vegetable oil to fry; Ranch dressing, honey mustard or barbecue dipping sauce

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I’ve always had a soft spot for those iconic little bites of joy we know as Chicken Nuggets. When I think of the perfect snack or the ultimate comfort food, Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets come to mind. There’s a certain nostalgia tied to them, perhaps from childhood trips to fast-food restaurants where the smell of freshly fried nuggets filled the air. Now, imagine having that same delicious experience right in your kitchen! Making your own version not only satisfies that craving but also allows you to customize each nugget to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with family or friends. Picture the laughter as you shape the chicken into those beloved nugget forms, and the delicious anticipation as they fry to golden perfection. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a journey back to simpler times.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Food Processor, Blender

Why This Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets Is So Good

They’re Easy to Make

One of the best things about Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets is how simple they are to prepare. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe approachable. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch of crispy nuggets that will impress anyone.

Fun for All Ages

Cooking these nuggets is a fantastic way to involve kids or friends in the kitchen. They can help shape the nuggets and have fun with the process. It’s a perfect opportunity to create memorable moments while whipping up a batch of these tasty treats.

Healthier Option

By making your own Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets, you’re in control of the ingredients. You can choose fresh, high-quality chicken and avoid preservatives and additives that are often found in store-bought versions. This means you can satisfy your cravings while also serving up a healthier option.

Customize to Your Taste

Another reason to love this recipe is the ability to customize. Want a hint of spice? You could add some cayenne pepper or paprika. Prefer a more classic flavor? Stick to salt and pepper. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fantastic way to cater to different tastes in one batch.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a party, Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets fit in perfectly. They’re not just a snack; they’re an enticing appetizer that your guests will rave about. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for a fun twist that everyone can enjoy.

Great for Meal Prep

These nuggets are ideal for meal prepping. You can make a large batch, freeze them, and fry them up whenever a craving strikes. Having these little morsels ready at a moment’s notice is a game-changer for busy weeknights.

What Goes Into Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets

Creating Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets requires a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. The combination of chicken, flour, and seasonings makes for a crispy coating that perfectly complements the tender chicken inside. The star players in this recipe are the chicken breasts, which provide a juicy and flavorful base. Along with the spices, these ingredients work harmoniously to recreate that beloved fast-food experience.

2 chicken breasts: The main ingredient that provides the protein base for our nuggets. Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the chicken.
1/2 cup flour: This is used to create the first layer of the coating, giving the nuggets a crunchy texture.
1/2 cup cornstarch: A secret ingredient that helps achieve that extra crispy texture that everyone loves.
1 teaspoon salt: Used in the dry mixture to ensure the nuggets are well-seasoned.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the nuggets.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a savory, aromatic taste.
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper: Provides a hint of spice to the coating.
2 eggs: Used in the wet batter to help the coating adhere to the chicken.
1/2 cup water: Mixed with the eggs to create the wet batter.
1/4 cup cornstarch: Added to the wet batter for additional crispiness.
Vegetable oil to fry: Necessary for frying the nuggets to golden perfection.
Ranch dressing, honey mustard or barbecue dipping sauce: Optional, but recommended for serving with the nuggets.

How to Assemble Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets

Making Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets is a fun and rewarding experience. You’ll love the transformation of simple ingredients into delightful bites of goodness. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect outcome every time.

Start by making space in your freezer to freeze the nuggets. This step is essential for achieving the right texture.
Take the chicken breasts and cut them into small cubes. This helps in blending later and ensures that they cook evenly.
In a blender or food processor, chop the chicken into small ground pieces. This process should only take a few pulses; you want the chicken finely ground but not pureed.
Transfer the ground chicken into a mixing bowl and season it with salt and pepper. Mix it thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Prepare a baking sheet by placing a piece of parchment paper onto it. This will prevent the nuggets from sticking while they freeze.
Using wet hands, shape the ground chicken into nugget shapes that closely resemble the ones from McDonald’s. This part can be quite fun, and you can make them larger or smaller based on your preference.
Arrange the shaped chicken nuggets on the parchment paper and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Freezing helps them hold their shape during frying.
Meanwhile, in a shallow dish, mix together flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. This dry mixture will create a crunchy coating.
In another shallow dish, add eggs, water, and 1/4 cup cornstarch. Beat the mixture well until it’s combined.
Once the nuggets are frozen, take them out and start the coating process. Dip each nugget first in the dry mixture, then into the wet mixture, and back into the dry again for a second coating. This double-dipping technique ensures an extra crispy texture.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of chicken into it; if it sizzles, it’s ready for frying.
Carefully place the coated chicken nuggets into the hot oil. Fry them for about 7 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
Once cooked, drain the nuggets on paper towels to remove excess oil. This helps keep them crispy.
Serve the nuggets hot, with your choice of dipping sauce like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Enjoy your homemade treats!

Things Worth Knowing

Using cold chicken can help maintain the shape of the nuggets while frying, so make sure your chicken is chilled before processing.
Double-dipping in flour and cornstarch helps create a thicker, crunchier crust that gives the perfect bite.
Frying in small batches ensures that the oil temperature remains consistent, preventing soggy or undercooked nuggets.
Let the nuggets rest on paper towels after frying to allow excess oil to drain away, ensuring they are crispy.

Helpful Notes about Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets

Making Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets can be a fulfilling endeavor, and keeping some tips in mind will enhance your experience. Here are some helpful notes to consider:

Storage: If you have leftover nuggets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: These nuggets freeze beautifully. After frying, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag.
Pairing: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for added flavor.
Cooking Method: For a healthier option, you can bake these nuggets in an oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Alternative Proteins: Feel free to experiment with turkey or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets, the options are endless! Here are some great ideas:

Perfect for Game Day: These nuggets make an excellent snack for watching sports. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces for guests to choose from.
Kids’ Parties: They are a hit with kids, making them a great addition to any children’s party or playdate.
Quick Lunch: Serve them with a side salad or veggies for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Family Dinners: Pair them with mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese for a comforting family dinner.
On the Go: These nuggets can be packed as a snack for picnics or road trips; just keep them in a thermos to maintain their warmth.
Comfort Food: Enjoy them on a cozy movie night at home, served with your favorite snacks.
Seasonal Dipping Sauces: Switch up your sauces with seasonal flavors, like spicy sauces in the summer or creamy options in the winter.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze the Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets before frying them. Once you shape them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze them for about 30 minutes. After freezing, you can store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry them from frozen for a crispy treat!

There’s a variety of dipping sauces that pair beautifully with Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets. Classic choices include ranch dressing, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce. However, feel free to get creative! You can try sweet and sour sauce, spicy buffalo sauce, or even a zesty garlic aioli for a gourmet twist. The options are endless!

Yes, one of the best parts about making Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets at home is that you control the ingredients. You can use fresh chicken and avoid the preservatives and additives that often come in frozen, pre-packaged nuggets. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning and even use healthier cooking methods like baking instead of frying.

Definitely! While the classic version uses chicken, you can easily substitute with turkey or even meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times as needed, especially if you’re using a protein that cooks differently than chicken.

Conclusion

The Copycat McDonalds Chicken Nuggets recipe brings the nostalgia of fast food right into your kitchen. Not only are they fun to make, but they also offer a healthier alternative to the store-bought versions. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; whether you’re making them for yourself or to share with family and friends, they are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite!