The Best Ever Chicken Nuggets

Name: The Best Ever Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 500 g chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1 litre vegetable oil (for frying)

65 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover the ultimate chicken nuggets: crispy, juicy, and flavourful. Perfect for family dinners or parties.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Chicken nuggets are a beloved classic that never goes out of style. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or hosting a party, these nuggets promise to impress with their crispy coating and tender, juicy interior. Our version of chicken nuggets stands out because it combines a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb coating with succulent chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to recreate a restaurant-quality dish at home. If you've ever been disappointed by soggy or bland nuggets, this recipe is for you. It's designed to deliver the perfect balance of texture and taste, making it a favourite among both kids and adults.

Instructions

Marinate the chicken

In a bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Marinating overnight enhances the flavour even more.

Prepare the breading

In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

Bread the chicken

Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Coat in flour mixture, then in panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.

Pro tip: For extra crispiness, repeat the flour and breadcrumb coating.

Heat the oil

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to maintain temperature.

Pro tip: If you don't have a thermometer, test with a piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden in about 60 seconds.

Fry the nuggets

Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

Pro tip: Avoid overcrowding the pot to keep the oil temperature consistent.

Drain and serve

Remove nuggets with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauces.

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Tips & Tricks

For extra crunch, double coat the nuggets by repeating the breading process.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavour.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these chicken nuggets the best ever?

Our chicken nuggets are marinated for flavour, double-breaded for extra crunch, and fried to perfection, ensuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavour.

What's the best oil temperature for frying chicken nuggets?

The oil should be heated to 180°C (350°F) for optimal frying results.

Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

How many calories are in each serving of chicken nuggets?

Each serving of chicken nuggets contains approximately 350 calories.

Can I freeze the chicken nuggets?

Yes, bread the nuggets and freeze them uncooked. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these chicken nuggets with your favourite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. They pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or crispy sweet potato fries. To make ahead, prepare the nuggets up to the breading stage and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time. Store cooked nuggets in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

28g

Protein

15g

Fat

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