Chicken Nugget Recipe

These homemade chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with savory flavor in every bite. Inspired by restaurant-style nuggets, this recipe uses seasoned ground chicken, a light batter, and a crunchy coating to create nuggets that taste far better than frozen store-bought versions. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, kids’ lunches, party snacks, or game-day appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra crispy coating with a tender center
• Easy to make ahead and freeze
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
• Better flavor than fast food nuggets
• Great for dipping in ketchup, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce

Prep Time and Cook Time

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ cup cornstarch

For the Batter

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 cups very cold club soda

For Frying

• Vegetable oil or canola oil

How to Make Chicken Nuggets

Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the seasonings are evenly incorporated throughout the chicken mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Nuggets

Lightly oil your hands and scoop small portions of the chicken mixture. Shape them into classic nugget forms and place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch

Roll each nugget in cornstarch to create a dry outer layer. This helps the batter stick better and keeps the nuggets juicy during frying.

Step 4: Chill the Nuggets

Place the tray into the freezer for about 1 hour, or until the nuggets are firm enough to handle easily.

Step 5: Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Slowly pour in the cold club soda and gently stir until just combined. The batter should stay slightly lumpy for the crispiest texture.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

Fill a deep heavy-bottomed pot halfway with oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C).

Step 7: Fry the Nuggets

Dip each chilled nugget into the batter, allowing excess batter to drip off. Carefully lower the nuggets into the hot oil and fry for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked inside.

Step 8: Drain and Serve

Transfer the nuggets to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

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Tips for the Best Chicken Nuggets

• Keep the club soda very cold for a lighter, crispier coating.
• Avoid overcrowding the pot while frying.
• Freeze shaped nuggets before frying so they hold their shape better.
• For extra crunch, double-dip the nuggets in batter before frying.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Air Fryer Option

To make these in the air fryer:

1. Spray the breaded nuggets lightly with oil.
2. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
3. Flip halfway through cooking until golden and crispy.

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Storage and Freezing

• Store cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze uncooked nuggets on a tray first, then transfer them to freezer bags.
• Reheat frozen nuggets in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

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Serving Suggestions

These crispy chicken nuggets pair perfectly with:

• French fries
• Coleslaw
• Mac and cheese
• Garlic dip
• Honey mustard sauce
• Ranch dressing