Description
These Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal option. Made with tender chicken breast pieces coated in seasoned flour, dipped in egg, and panko breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to a golden crisp perfection. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these nuggets pair well with your favorite dipping sauces and make great finger food for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Breading
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking
- Cooking oil (canola recommended) – enough for frying in a skillet
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three separate bowls: one with seasoned flour (flour mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper), one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the chicken pieces: Dredge each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat the oil: Pour cooking oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking, indicating it’s hot enough for frying.
- Fry the nuggets: Fry the breaded chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Drain and serve: Remove cooked nuggets from skillet and drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch.
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to check chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Panko breadcrumbs create extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Canola oil is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point.
- For a healthier option, bake nuggets at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
