Description
These Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets are a delicious and easy-to-make recipe perfect for a family meal or appetizer. Made with tender chicken breasts marinated in buttermilk and seasoned with garlic powder and paprika, then coated in flour, eggs, and crunchy panko breadcrumbs before being fried to golden perfection. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, about 2 inches for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare Dredging Station: Set up three separate shallow bowls – one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This will allow you to easily coat each chicken piece evenly.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade, letting excess drip off gently. First, dredge each piece lightly in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the Nuggets: Carefully add the coated chicken nuggets in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes per side or until the nuggets turn golden brown and are cooked through. Use tongs to turn gently.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried nuggets with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For a healthier air-fried version, spray the coated nuggets lightly with oil and cook in a preheated air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- To add extra flavor, season the panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese or dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Ensure oil temperature stays steady around 350°F to avoid greasy nuggets or burnt coating.
- Marinating overnight enhances the tenderness and flavor significantly.
