Homemade Chicken Nuggets 🍗: Crispy, Golden, and Full of Flavor

Skip the drive-thru—these Homemade Chicken Nuggets are a game changer. Crispy, juicy, and seasoned just right, they’re made from real chicken breast and pantry spices. Whether you’re making a big batch for a party or whipping them up for a quick dinner, these nuggets are bound to be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

These nuggets are simple, satisfying, and way healthier than their fast-food counterparts. You control the ingredients, skip the preservatives, and get that satisfying crunch and flavor with every bite. Plus, they freeze beautifully—perfect for meal prep or snack emergencies!

Ingredients

For the Nuggets:

• 1 to 1¼ lbs chicken breast
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ¼ cup water

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs

For Frying:

• 3–4 cups vegetable oil, or more as needed

Substitutions & Notes

• Breadcrumbs: Swap plain for panko for extra crunch.
• Bake or air fry: If you prefer not to deep-fry, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or use your air fryer.
• Spices: Adjust seasoning to taste—try cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for variety.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Blend chicken in a food processor until minced. Add onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, paprika, salt, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Blend until well combined.
➤ Duration: 5 minutes

2. Shape the Nuggets

Scoop 1½ tbsp of the chicken mixture and shape into nuggets. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
➤ Duration: 10 minutes + 30 minutes freezing

3. Heat the Oil

While nuggets firm up, heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
➤ Duration: 10 minutes

4. Bread the Nuggets

Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each frozen nugget in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat.
➤ Duration: 10 minutes

5. Fry the Nuggets

Fry in batches for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
➤ Duration: 8 minutes per batch

6. Drain and Serve

Transfer nuggets to a paper towel-lined tray to drain. Serve warm with your favorite sauces.
➤ Duration: 2 minutes

Tips for Success

• Freeze the shaped nuggets for even breading and cleaner frying.
• Use a thermometer to keep oil around 350°F for best crispiness.
• Double the batch and freeze uncooked nuggets for later.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Pair your nuggets with:

• Ranch
• BBQ sauce
• Honey mustard
• Sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha mayo

What to Serve With Them

These nuggets go great with:

• Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fun, family-style dinner
• 3-Ingredient Egg Wraps for a high-protein side
• Crockpot Nacho Dip as a game-day pairing
• Instant Pot Lasagna for a comfort food feast
• Dorito Casserole for a double-dose of crunchy fun

Storage & Freezing

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked, breaded nuggets on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.
• Reheat: Use the oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Chicken Nuggets are everything we love about the fast-food classic—only better, fresher, and made with love. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or meal-prepping your week, this recipe is a guaranteed win.