Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Craving for a delicious snack that both kids and adults can enjoy? Why not whip up a batch of crispy homemade chicken nuggets? These golden, crunchy delights are a favorite for many, and making them in your own kitchen allows you to control the ingredients and indulge in the freshness. Here’s how you can make them from scratch:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup regular or panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• Oil for frying

Directions:

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1½ inches each. This size is perfect for ensuring each piece cooks evenly and gets plenty of coating.
2. Set Up Coating Stations: Arrange three bowls for a coating assembly line. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, beat together the eggs and water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt.
3. Heat the Oil: Fill a frying pan with about 2 inches of oil and heat it over medium heat to 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature, ensuring it’s hot enough for frying but not so hot that it burns the nuggets.
4. Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken and coat it first in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip next into the egg mixture, and finally, dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each nugget is well-coated to guarantee that crispy texture.
5. Fry the Nuggets: Before frying in batches, test the oil with one nugget. It should sizzle immediately upon contact. If the nugget browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Fry each batch for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain a consistent temperature.
6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the nuggets to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This step helps keep them crispy.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 386 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

These homemade chicken nuggets are not only satisfying but also a fun way to involve kids in the kitchen. Serve them with your favorite dips like ketchup, BBQ sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy your meal knowing you’ve created a tasty treat that’s sure to be a hit at any family gathering or casual dining occasion!