Homemade Chicken nuggets are a popular snack for both kids and adults. These crispy, golden bites are great for school lunches, evening snacks, or party appetizers. While store-bought nuggets are convenient, homemade chicken nuggets are healthier because they do not contain preservatives and taste better. Made with fresh chicken breast, breadcrumbs, and flavorful seasonings, these nuggets are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Unlike store-bought nuggets filled with preservatives, this homemade chicken nuggets recipe is healthier, tastier, and easy to make. Plus, you can batch-prepare them and store them in the freezer for quick frying anytime.
Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make restaurant-style chicken nuggets at home with simple ingredients!
Table of Contents
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Nuggets
- Use fresh chicken breast: This ensures that the nuggets remain tender and juicy. Avoid frozen chicken, as it can make them dry.
- Bread the nuggets properly: Make sure each piece is evenly coated in the egg wash and breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
- Freeze before frying: Chilling the nuggets for 20 minutes before frying helps them hold their shape.
- Don’t fry on high heat: Cook on medium heat to ensure golden brown nuggets without burning the outside.
- Air Fryer Option: To make them healthier, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why is this Recipe Good or Popular?
- ✔ Crispy & Juicy – Perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and juicy inside.
- ✔ Homemade & Healthier – No preservatives, artificial flavors, or excess oil.
- ✔ Kid-Friendly – A great tiffin box or lunchbox snack for children.
- ✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
- ✔ Freezer-Friendly – Make a big batch and store for up to 3 months.
Recipe Card
Homemade Chicken Nuggets Recipe – 5 Easy Steps for Extra Crispy Nuggets!
Chicken nuggets are a universally loved snack, especially popular among children and perfect for any occasion. This homemade chicken nuggets recipe offers a healthier alternative to store-bought options, allowing you to control the ingredients and ensure freshness. The recipe is simple and can be prepared in larger quantities to be stored and used later, making it a convenient option for busy days.The Homemade Chicken Nuggets are made from tender chicken breast mixed with spices and breadcrumbs, creating a juicy and flavorful interior. The outside is coated with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish, providing a satisfying texture contrast. Once prepared, the nuggets can be frozen, allowing you to quickly fry them whenever needed. This makes them an excellent option for kids' lunchboxes, afternoon snacks, or party appetizers.With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is both easy and budget-friendly. The nuggets are not only delicious but also more nutritious than their processed counterparts. Whether you're a parent looking to make a tasty snack for your kids or just someone who enjoys a good nugget, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Tray
- Butter paper or parchment paper
- Frying pan
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 4 slices white bread (edges trimmed and cut into small pieces)
- ½ kg chicken breast (boneless, cut into small pieces)
- ½ tbsp ginger paste
- ½ tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp white pepper powder
- ½ tbsp paprika powder optional
- ½ tbsp salt (or to taste)
- 1½ tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 pc egg (medium egg, beaten)
- 1 tbsp milk
- Breadcrumbs (for coating)
Instructions
Preparing the Bread Crumbs
- Trim the edges of the white bread slices and cut them into small pieces.4 slices white bread
- Place the bread pieces in a blender and blend until they become fine crumbs.
Preparing the Chicken Mixture
- Add the chicken breast pieces into the blender along with the bread crumbs.½ kg chicken breast
- Add ginger paste, garlic paste, light soy sauce, white pepper powder, paprika powder (optional), and salt.½ tbsp ginger paste, ½ tbsp garlic paste, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp white pepper powder, ½ tbsp paprika powder, ½ tbsp salt
- Blend the mixture until it becomes a coarse paste. It should not be too fine.
Mixing and Shaping the Nuggets
- Transfer the mixture onto a clean surface and add vegetable oil.1½ tbsp vegetable oil
- Knead the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth.
- Flatten the mixture on the surface and cut it into nugget-sized pieces using an oiled knife.
Coating the Nuggets
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt, white pepper, and milk.
- Dip each nugget piece into the egg mixture, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- Repeat the process to ensure each nugget is fully coated.
Freezing and Frying
- Place the coated nuggets on a tray lined with butter paper. Freeze for at least 30 minutes before frying.
- For frying, heat oil in a pan. Fry the nuggets in medium heat for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- If frying directly from the freezer, let the nuggets thaw for 10 minutes before frying.
Video
Notes
Special Notes and Guide:
- Ensure the chicken mixture is not overly smooth; a slightly coarse texture makes the nuggets juicier.
- You can double coat the nuggets for extra crispiness.
- Store the nuggets in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Fry on medium heat to avoid burning the breadcrumbs while ensuring the inside is cooked through.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake the nuggets for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store homemade chicken nuggets?
You can store uncooked nuggets in an airtight container and freeze them for up to 3 months. For cooked nuggets, refrigerate them for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
What dipping sauces go best with chicken nuggets?
Try them with ketchup, honey mustard, garlic mayo, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Nuggets
- Uncooked nuggets: Arrange them in a single layer on a tray, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Cooked nuggets: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Special Notes
- For a healthier version, bake or air-fry the nuggets instead of deep frying.
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
- If you like spicy nuggets, add a pinch of chili flakes to the coating mix.
- These nuggets pair well with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Healthier Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Cheese-Stuffed Nuggets: Add a small cube of cheese inside each nugget before coating.
- Spicy Nuggets: Mix 1 tsp chili flakes into the breadcrumb coating for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace soy sauce with tamari.
Final Thoughts
Make these Homemade Chicken Nuggets once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought! Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they always turn out crispy and delicious. Try this recipe today and share your feedback!
🔥 What’s your favorite nugget dipping sauce? Let us know in the comments! 😊