Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

There’s something utterly irresistible about the sound of sizzling chicken in the kitchen. When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is the crunch of my homemade Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe. I remember the first time I made them for my family; it was a busy weeknight, and I needed something that would please everyone at the table. As the chicken nuggets cooked, the aroma filled the air, and I couldn’t help but feel excited. My kids were thrilled when they saw the golden brown nuggets come out of the oil, and the smiles on their faces made it all worthwhile. What I love about this recipe is that it’s not just about the flavor; it’s about the memories we create around the dinner table. Whether you dip them in your favorite sauce or enjoy them plain, these nuggets are always a hit. So, let’s dive into the world of crispy goodness and get started on your own batch of these delightful nuggets!

Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

When it comes to the ingredients for this recipe, simplicity and quality are key. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect chicken nugget. From the tender chicken to the crunchy coating, everything works together to deliver amazing flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds): This is the star of the show. The chicken should be cut into bite-sized chunks for the best results.
• 2 cups water: Used to brine the chicken, enhancing its moisture and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided: Essential for brining and seasoning the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a depth of flavor to the chicken.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a base for the crispy coating.
• 1 cup panko crumbs, crushed: These provide the ultimate crunch!
• 2 teaspoons onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the batter.
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper: For seasoning, giving the nuggets a little kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the coating crisp up nicely.
• 3 large egg whites: Used for binding the coating onto the chicken.
• 4 cups peanut oil: Essential for frying, making the chicken nuggets crispy.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: For a delicious dipping sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy flavor to the dip.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: A classic addition to the sauce mix.
• 2 tablespoons honey: For sweetness in the dipping sauce.
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A hint of heat to spice things up!

Making This Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Preparing your own crispy chicken nuggets is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have golden nuggets ready for enjoyment. Let’s walk through the process together to ensure you achieve perfectly crispy results!

1. First, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks. This size is ideal as it allows for even cooking and a satisfying bite. The smaller pieces will also absorb the flavors of the brine better.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the water, 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, and Worcestershire sauce until the salt is fully dissolved. This brining step ensures our chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
3. Add the chicken to the brine, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This is a crucial step for achieving moist nuggets.
4. While the chicken is brining, combine the flour, crushed panko crumbs, onion powder, the remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and baking soda in a pie plate or shallow dish. Mix well to ensure an even coating.
5. In another shallow dish, whisk the egg whites until they become foamy. This will help the coating adhere to the nuggets.
6. After the brining time is up, remove the chicken from the brine and discard the liquid. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
7. Now, coat each piece of chicken in the egg whites. This step is essential as it creates a sticky surface for the flour mixture.
8. Next, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing it on to ensure a good coating. Once coated, place the nuggets on a plate and let them sit for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the coating adhere better during frying.
9. Meanwhile, heat the peanut oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a deep-frying thermometer to ensure accuracy.
10. After the oil is hot, recoat the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing the mixture onto the chicken with your fingers. This double coating is the secret to achieving a wonderfully crispy texture.
11. Fry the chicken in batches, working in two batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown, flipping once, which should take approximately three minutes in total. Once done, place the nuggets on a wire rack set over a large, rimmed baking sheet.
12. To keep the chicken warm while you finish frying the rest, place it in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
13. To make the dipping sauce, combine mayonnaise, both types of mustard, honey, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Serve alongside the freshly fried nuggets.

Recipe Tips about Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Making the perfect crispy chicken nuggets comes with a few helpful tips that will elevate your dish. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:

• Storage: Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked nuggets before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Serve these nuggets with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to balance the meal. They also pair wonderfully with crunchy fries or sweet potato wedges.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, for an extra kick.
• Healthier Cooking Method: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider baking the nuggets instead of frying. Just spray them with cooking oil and bake until golden brown.
• Kid-Friendly Meal: These nuggets are a fantastic choice for feeding kids; consider making mini versions for bite-sized fun!

Accompaniments for Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Serving your homemade crispy chicken nuggets can be as delightful as making them. Here are some suggestions for accompaniments that will elevate your meal:

• Classic French Fries: There’s nothing like a side of crispy fries to go with your nuggets. They are a beloved pairing, making for a hearty meal.
• Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers can add freshness to your plate, balancing the richness of the fried nuggets.
• Veggie Sticks: Offer a colorful array of veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with a dip alongside your nuggets for a healthy crunch.
• Game Day Snack: These nuggets are perfect for serving at parties or game days, paired with an array of sauces for dipping.
• Comfort Food Dinner: Serve them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food dinner.
• Sweet Dips: For a fun twist, try pairing with sweet dips like honey or a sweet chili sauce.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe embodies the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family dinner, a party, or just a snack, these nuggets are sure to impress everyone at the table. I encourage you to try making them at home; it’s easier than you think and so rewarding! Enjoy the crispy goodness and the joy it brings to your meal!

Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, these Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, they are sure to satisfy cravings. Make them tonight for the family!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 51 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Panko crumbs
• 2 teaspoons Onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon Pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
• 3 large Egg whites
• 4 cups Peanut oil
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons Honey
• 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper

Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Deep Frying Thermometer

Method

 

1. Cut **chicken** breasts into 1-inch chunks.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together **water**, 1 tablespoon of **salt**, and **Worcestershire sauce** until **salt** dissolves.
3. Add **chicken**, stir to coat **chicken** well, and place in refrigerator for 30 minutes.
4. While **chicken** is brining, combine **flour**, **panko** bread crumbs, **onion powder**, remaining **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, and **baking soda** in a pie plate or shallow dish. In a second shallow dish, whisk the **egg whites** until foamy.
5. Remove **chicken** from brine and discard the brine. Pat **chicken** dry with paper towels.
6. Coat **chicken** in **egg white** and then dredge in **flour** mixture. Place on a plate and let sit for 10 minutes.
7. Heat **oil** in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat to a temperature of 350 degrees.
8. Recoat **chicken** in **flour** mixture, pressing mixture on with your fingers.
9. Working in 2 batches, fry **chicken** until golden brown, flipping once. This will take approximately 3 minutes total. Place **chicken** on top of a wire rack set in a large, rimmed baking sheet. **Chicken** can be kept warm in a 200 degree oven.
10. To make dipping sauce, combine **mayonnaise**, both **mustards**, **honey**, and **cayenne pepper** in a bowl.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftover **chicken** nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven to restore their crispiness.
• Tip 2: You can freeze uncooked nuggets before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
• Tip 3: Serve these nuggets with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to balance the meal. They also pair wonderfully with crunchy **fries** or sweet potato wedges.
• Tip 4: Experiment with different spices in the **flour** mixture, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, for an extra kick.
• Tip 5: If you're looking for a healthier option, consider baking the nuggets instead of frying. Just spray them with cooking oil and bake until golden brown.

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Meet Juliet Sterling

Creating rich, complex flavors is my obsession, though I am just as passionate about capturing them through the lens. I develop recipes that taste like they simmered all day but are actually achievable for any home cook. I cooked and styled this dish to ensure the flavors are balanced and the presentation inspires you.