Stash that gold: freeze your chicken nuggets with this genius recipe for future snacking
What To Know
- Dip each chicken nugget into the flour mixture, then the milk mixture, and finally the bread crumbs.
- Place the frozen nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
- How long can I store the frozen nuggets in the freezer.
Craving crispy, golden chicken nuggets anytime, without the hassle of preparation? Our ultimate chicken nuggets recipe for freezing is here to make your freezer a treasure trove of deliciousness. This step-by-step guide will empower you to create homemade nuggets that will rival any fast-food chain, all while saving you time and money.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Create the Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
- In a third bowl, place the bread crumbs.
3. Coat the Nuggets:
- Dip each chicken nugget into the flour mixture, then the milk mixture, and finally the bread crumbs.
- Press the bread crumbs firmly into the nuggets.
4. Freeze the Nuggets:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
5. Fry the Nuggets:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully drop the frozen nuggets into the hot oil.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve:
- Remove the nuggets from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Freezing and Reheating:
- To Freeze: Place the frozen nuggets in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations:
- Spicy Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the bread crumb mixture.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Mix grated cheese into the bread crumbs.
- Buffalo Nuggets: Toss the cooked nuggets in your favorite buffalo sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the nuggets with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
- Serve as appetizers, snacks, or a main course with sides like fries, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information:
- Per serving (3 nuggets):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Final Words:
With our chicken nuggets recipe for freezing, you can enjoy homemade, crispy chicken nuggets whenever the craving strikes. Follow these steps, freeze for convenience, and reheat for a satisfying meal that will make you feel like you’re dining out.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they may be slightly more tender and have a different flavor profile.
Q: How do I make gluten-free nuggets?
A: Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs in the coating.
Q: What is the best dipping sauce for chicken nuggets?
A: The choice is subjective, but popular options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing.
Q: Can I freeze the nuggets after they have been fried?
A: No, it is recommended to freeze the nuggets before frying to ensure they cook evenly.
Q: How long can I store the frozen nuggets in the freezer?
A: Frozen nuggets can be stored for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I bake the nuggets instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake the nuggets at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
