- In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Add chicken pieces and coat well.
- Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Beat the egg in another bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Nuggets
- Remove chicken from the marinade and dip each piece into the flour mixture.
- Then dip it into the beaten egg, and back into the flour mixture for a double-crunch coating.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
🍳 For Deep Frying:
8. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
9. Drain on a paper towel.
🔥 For Baking (Healthier Option):
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Place nuggets on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
🍃 For Air Frying (Crispy & Healthy):
8. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
9. Arrange nuggets in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve hot with ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze raw nuggets before frying for quick meal prep.
- Reheat in the oven (10 min at 375°F) or air fryer for crispiness.
Variants: Customize Your Nuggets!
- Spicy Chicken Nuggets – Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the flour mix.
- Cheesy Nuggets – Mix ¼ cup grated parmesan into the flour for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Nuggets – Use gluten-free flour & crushed cornflakes for coating.
- Herb-Infused Nuggets – Add oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the breading.
- Extra Crunchy Nuggets – Use panko breadcrumbs in the final coating.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
1. Why are my nuggets not crispy?
Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F), and don’t overcrowd the pan!
2. Can I make these without eggs?
Yes! Use buttermilk or a cornstarch-water slurry as a binder.
3. How do I get extra crispy nuggets?
Double-dip in flour, use cornstarch, and fry in hot oil.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Thighs will be juicier but just as crispy.
5. How do I prevent soggy nuggets?
Let them drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
Final Thoughts: The Best Homemade Chicken Nuggets Ever!
Why settle for fast food when you can make crispy, juicy, homemade chicken nuggets that taste even better? This easy recipe is kid-approved, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for any occasion.
