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Homemade Chicken Nuggets photo

Chicken Nuggets

These chicken nuggets are a childhood favorite! Crispy, juicy bites made with simple ingredients that are perfect for snacks or meals!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Nuggets:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into even 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.75 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Oven

Method
 

Method:
  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken nuggets will cook evenly and get that desired crispy texture.
  2. Step 2: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into even 1-inch cubes.
  3. Step 3: In one mixing bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them. In another bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients together.
  4. Step 4: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, then transfer it to the panko mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken.
  5. Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the breaded chicken nuggets on the sheet, spaced apart.
  6. Step 6: Bake the chicken nuggets for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Step 7: Let the nuggets cool for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, double-dip your chicken cubes in the egg and panko mixture.
  • Fry the nuggets in a skillet for a quicker option instead of baking.
  • These nuggets freeze well! Make a larger batch and freeze them for quick meals later.