Forget the fast-food drive-thru! This recipe shows you how to make incredibly tasty and satisfying chicken nuggets from scratch using ground chicken. These nuggets are perfect for a family dinner, a kid-friendly meal, or even a fun appetizer. They’re healthier than their processed counterparts and far more customizable to your taste.
Why Use Ground Chicken for Nuggets?
Using ground chicken offers several advantages: It's often more affordable than chicken breasts, it's incredibly versatile, and the resulting nuggets are incredibly tender and juicy. Plus, the process is much faster than hand-breading individual pieces of chicken.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or your preferred high-heat oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the nuggets tough.
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Shape the Nuggets: Using your hands, gently shape the chicken mixture into nugget-sized pieces. Aim for roughly 1-inch thick nuggets for even cooking.
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Cook the Nuggets: Heat about 1/4 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of water should sizzle immediately), carefully place the chicken nuggets in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd.
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Fry Until Golden Brown: Cook the nuggets for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the nuggets from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce – honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even ketchup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I bake these chicken nuggets instead of frying them?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the nuggets instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
What kind of breadcrumbs are best for this recipe?
Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their extra crispiness and texture. However, regular breadcrumbs will also work well.
Can I add other spices or seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Consider adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, Italian seasoning for a herby flavor, or even some finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
How do I know if the chicken nuggets are cooked through?
The nuggets are cooked through when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are safely cooked. They should also be golden brown and firm to the touch.
How can I store leftover chicken nuggets?
Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
This homemade ground chicken nugget recipe is a guaranteed winner! It's simple, delicious, and customizable to your preferences. Enjoy!
