These crispy and tender chicken nuggets are a homemade favorite that kids and adults will love. Chicken breast is cut into bite-sized pieces, then coated in bread crumbs and spices. The nuggets are then fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving and Storage Guidelines
Serving:
Once the delectable baked chicken nuggets have completed their culinary journey in the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This ensures that the juices have time to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy nuggets.
Accompany these delectable nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces and sides to elevate the dining experience. Homemade ranch dressing mix or a creamy homemade cheese sauce are perfect complements to the nuggets’ savory flavors.
For a wholesome and satisfying meal, pair the chicken nuggets with roasted vegetables, such as roasted broccoli or roasted carrots, which add a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
What child (or adult for that matter) can resist the allure of homemade mac and cheese alongside these crispy chicken nuggets? The creamy goodness of mac and cheese provides a delightful balance to the nuggets’ savory notes.
For a refreshing and slightly tangy side, consider serving a salad, such as a kale salad, burrata salad, or coleslaw. The freshness and acidity of the salad will complement the richness of the chicken nuggets.
Storage:
To ensure optimal freshness and prevent spoilage, store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until thoroughly heated through.
Freezing:
If you wish to enjoy these healthy chicken nuggets at a later date, consider freezing them for extended storage. Allow the cooked nuggets to cool completely before proceeding.
Arrange the cooled nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or a silicone baking mat. This spacing ensures even freezing and prevents the nuggets from clumping together.
Flash-freeze the nuggets until they are completely hardened, ensuring they remain individually frozen and retain their shape.
Once frozen, transfer the nuggets to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label the container or bag with the date of freezing for reference.
Frozen chicken nuggets can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to consume, reheat them in the oven or microwave until thoroughly heated through.
FAQ about Chicken Nuggets
How do I cut a chicken breast into nuggets?
To ensure uniform and evenly cooked chicken nuggets, follow these simple steps:
- Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breast on a cutting board.
- Slice the chicken breast lengthwise into two thin pieces.
- Cut each thin piece into 1-inch cubes.
How do I ensure the batter adheres to the chicken?
The secret to achieving a crispy batter on your chicken nuggets lies in a simple three-step process:
- Dredge the chicken cubes in flour. Ensure they are evenly coated.
- Dip the floured chicken into a beaten egg. The egg acts as a binder, helping the batter adhere to the chicken.
- Coat the egg-washed chicken in breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they adhere firmly.
What can I serve alongside chicken nuggets?
Chicken nuggets are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:
Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, roasted carrots, or a medley of roasted vegetables add a wholesome and flavorful complement to the nuggets.
Mac and cheese: The creamy richness of mac and cheese provides a delightful contrast to the crispy texture of the nuggets.
Salads: A refreshing salad, such as a kale salad, burrata salad, or coleslaw, adds a touch of freshness and acidity to balance the richness of the nuggets.
What dipping sauces are popular for chicken nuggets?
Chicken nuggets offer a blank canvas for exploring a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some popular choices:
BBQ sauce: The smoky and tangy flavors of BBQ sauce enhance the savory notes of the nuggets.
Ketchup: A classic pairing, ketchup provides a sweet and tangy complement to the chicken.
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle floral aroma to the nuggets.
Ranch dressing: The creamy and tangy flavors of ranch dressing create a delightful contrast to the crispy nuggets.
Sweet chili sauce: The sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy notes of sweet chili sauce add an exciting flavor profile to the nuggets.
Hummus: Hummus offers a creamy, savory, and slightly nutty flavor that complements the chicken nuggets well.
Crispy and Tender Chicken Nuggets: A Homemade Favorite for Kids and Adults
A quick and easy meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) or air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
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In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper.
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In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
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In a third shallow bowl, place bread crumbs.
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Dredge chicken in flour mixture, then dip in milk mixture, then coat in bread crumbs.
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Place chicken nuggets on a greased baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. 8. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.