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Baked and Air-Fried Chicken Nuggets with Dipping Sauces Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 89 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 16 minutes (baking) or 9 minutes (air frying)
  • Total Time: 26 minutes (baking) or 19 minutes (air frying)
  • Yield: 30 nuggets (about 5 servings)
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These homemade chicken nuggets are a healthier twist on a classic favorite, using lean ground chicken and cauliflower rice for added nutrition. They’re coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and can be baked or air fried to crispy perfection. Perfect as a snack or meal, served with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs 93% lean ground chicken (organic preferred, not breast only)
  • 2/3 cup frozen cauliflower rice
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or gluten-free seasoned crumbs)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Dipping Sauces (optional)

  • Ketchup
  • Honey mustard
  • Buffalo sauce
  • BBQ sauce
  • Special sauce

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, frozen cauliflower rice, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Form Nuggets: Shape the mixture into 30 evenly sized round, flat nuggets, each weighing approximately 25 grams.
  3. Bread Nuggets: Dip each nugget into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
  4. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with oil to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
  5. Bake Nuggets: Arrange the breaded nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each nugget and bake for an additional 6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Spray with oil halfway if needed for extra crispiness.
  6. Air Fry Alternative: Place the breaded nuggets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8 to 9 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying with oil again for even browning and crispiness.

Notes

  • You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Using organic lean ground chicken boosts the nutritional quality and flavor.
  • The cauliflower rice adds moisture and reduces carbs, making these nuggets lighter than traditional recipes.
  • Baking and air frying are both healthy cooking options that yield crispy nuggets without deep frying.
  • Ensure nuggets reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, buffalo, BBQ, or a special sauce for extra flavor.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/baked-and-air-fried-chicken-nuggets-with-dipping-sauces-recipe/