Elevate your chicken nuggets: unlock the ultimate fried recipe for crispy goodness
What To Know
- Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these nuggets are a perfect snack or meal that will satisfy your cravings.
- Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Indulge in the irresistible crunch of homemade chicken nuggets with this easy-to-follow fried chicken nuggets recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these nuggets are a perfect snack or meal that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Dip in Buttermilk
Transfer the seasoned chicken to a separate bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs
In a shallow dish, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and gently shake off any excess. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumbs and press to adhere.
4. Fry the Nuggets
Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place the chicken nuggets into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain and Season
Remove the chicken nuggets from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve with Dipping Sauce
Serve the crispy chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Nuggets: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Mix 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese into the panko breadcrumbs before coating the chicken.
- Buffalo Nuggets: Toss the cooked chicken nuggets in a mixture of hot sauce, melted butter, and blue cheese crumbles.
Tips:
- For extra crispy nuggets, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk and breadcrumbs twice.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet or fryer when frying the nuggets.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve the chicken nuggets immediately for maximum crispiness.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a snack with your favorite dipping sauce
- As an appetizer before a meal
- As part of a main course with sides such as fries, mashed potatoes, or salad
Leftovers:
- Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Summary:
Elevate your next snack or meal with these irresistible fried chicken nuggets. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they are sure to become a family favorite. Try out the variations and serving suggestions to customize the recipe to your taste preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I use other types of breading besides panko breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture.
Q: Is it necessary to refrigerate the chicken in buttermilk?
A: Refrigerating the chicken in buttermilk helps to tenderize it and enhances the flavor. However, if you are short on time, you can skip this step.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover chicken nuggets?
A: Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
