Go Back

Savor the Flavor: Easy Homemade Chicken Nuggets

These homemade chicken nuggets are tender inside and crispy outside, providing a healthier alternative to fast food with the ability to control ingredients and flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into nugget sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
Breading
  • 1.5 cups breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
  • 0.5 cup all purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • to taste Oil for frying or a light spray for air fryer

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate the chicken by tossing it with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight.
  2. Set up your breading station with three bowls: one with mixed flour, salt, and onion powder; one with beaten eggs; and one with breadcrumbs or panko.
  3. Coat each nugget in flour first, then egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
Cooking
  1. For frying, heat a skillet over medium heat with about half an inch of oil. When a breadcrumb sizzles in the oil, it’s ready.
  2. Fry nuggets for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. For the air fryer, lightly spray the basket and arrange nuggets in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway.

Notes

For extra crunch, double dip in egg and crumbs. Cool leftovers completely before storing. Store in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.