Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken nuggets are made with real chicken and pantry staples, without preservatives or fillers. They’re quick to prepare, customizable, and can be cooked in the oven, on the stovetop, or even in an air fryer. Whether served with dipping sauces for snacking or as part of a meal, they’re delicious every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Bread crumbs (panko or regular)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Oil (for frying or spraying if baking)

Directions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. For frying: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry nuggets in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. For baking: Place nuggets on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. For air frying: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use crushed cornflakes or pretzels instead of bread crumbs for extra crunch.
• Add Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Make them spicy by adding cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• Swap chicken for turkey or fish for a different twist.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until warm and crispy. Nuggets can also be frozen (before or after cooking) for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer without thawing.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs make the nuggets juicier and more flavorful.

Do I have to deep fry them?

No, you can bake or air fry them for a lighter version.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, bread the chicken pieces and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I freeze homemade chicken nuggets?

Yes, freeze them raw after breading or fully cooked, then reheat when ready.

What dipping sauces go best with nuggets?

Ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch are all popular choices.

How do I make the coating extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and spray or drizzle lightly with oil before baking or air frying.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, just use water or non-dairy milk instead of regular milk in the egg wash.

How do I know when they’re done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the coating should be golden brown.

Can I use an air fryer?

Yes, it’s one of the best ways to make crispy nuggets with less oil.

Are these healthier than store-bought nuggets?

Yes, because they’re made with whole chicken pieces and no additives or fillers.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken nuggets are an easy, delicious, and healthier alternative to fast-food or frozen versions. With their crispy coating and tender chicken inside, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, these nuggets will quickly become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, snacks, or parties.

Homemade Chicken Nuggets

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Homemade chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they can be baked, fried, or air-fried for a healthier, delicious meal or snack.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish, Snack
• Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1. 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3. 2 large eggs, beaten
4. 1.5 cups bread crumbs (panko or regular)
5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
6. 1 teaspoon onion powder
7. 1 teaspoon paprika
8. 1 teaspoon salt
9. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10. Oil (for frying or spraying if baking/air frying)

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Instructions

Cut chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.

1. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the egg, then coat in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
3. For frying: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry nuggets in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place nuggets on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. For air frying: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

• Use crushed cornflakes or pretzels for an extra crunchy coating.
• Add grated Parmesan to the bread crumbs for added flavor.
• Make them spicy by adding cayenne or chili powder to the seasoning.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Swap chicken for turkey or white fish for variation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 140mg