These crispy, eggless homemade chicken nuggets are a real treat! Made with tender chicken and a crunchy coating, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce!
You’ll love how easy these nuggets are to whip up. I usually make a big batch and freeze some for those “I need a snack now!” moments. So good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is the star ingredient, giving you tender and juicy nuggets. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just remember that thighs may need a bit more cooking time.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will give you that nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs are okay too. You can even use crushed cornflakes or rice cereal for a gluten-free option with extra crispiness.
All-Purpose Flour: This is perfect for coating the chicken. If you need a gluten-free version, try using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Both can work well.
Milk: Regular milk adds moisture, but plant-based milk like almond or oat works just as well! Just ensure it’s unsweetened, so it doesn’t alter the taste.
Seasonings: Besides garlic and onion powder, feel free to add your favorite spices, such as cayenne pepper for heat or Italian herbs for a bit of a twist. Adjust them to suit your taste!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Coated Nuggets?
Coating chicken nuggets well is key for that crispy bite. Start by soaking the chicken in milk to add flavor and tenderness. This makes a big difference!
- Use a three-step process: first milk, then flour mixture, and finally breadcrumbs.
- Make sure each piece is well-coated at every stage. The more coverage, the crunchier your nuggets will be!
- If you find the breading isn’t sticking well, you can double dip: go back to the milk and then to the breadcrumbs again.
How to Make Eggless Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Nuggets:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Cooking oil spray or 1/4 cup oil for frying
Optional:
- Dipping sauces (ketchup, honey mustard, etc.)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-30 minutes to cook, depending on whether you choose to bake or fry the nuggets. In total, you can expect around 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting your chicken breast into small pieces for easy cooking. If you want it to be even more tender, soak the chicken pieces in milk for about 15-30 minutes. This will help soften the meat and make it juicier.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
While the chicken is soaking, get your breading station ready. In a bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful coating for the nuggets!
3. Dredging the Chicken:
Once the chicken has soaked, remove it from the milk. Take each chicken piece and first dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure it’s well coated! Then, dip it into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick well. You want your nuggets crispy!
4. Cooking Options:
You have two options here: baking or frying! If you choose to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated nuggets on a baking sheet and spray or brush them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
If frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the nuggets in batches, cooking until they turn golden brown on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per side. Once fried, place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve your chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup or honey mustard. Enjoy your delicious homemade treat!
Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spice levels according to your taste. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you an even juicier nugget. Just make sure to trim off any excess fat and adjust the cooking time slightly, if necessary, to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Milk?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or don’t have milk on hand, you can substitute with any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that flavored or sweetened varieties may slightly alter the taste of your nuggets!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, to retain that crunchy texture!
Can I Freeze the Chicken Nuggets Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the nuggets! After dredging in breadcrumbs, place the nuggets on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
