Make crunchy homemade chicken nuggets using a double-dip breading method for extra crispiness, served with a simple sweet and tangy honey dip.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying or Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon water
Instructions
Prepare the chicken: Place the cut chicken pieces in a bowl. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Set up the breading station: Place 1 cup flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish. In a second shallow dish, place the beaten eggs. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Dredge the chicken: Take one piece of chicken and coat it completely in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off excess.
Dip in egg: Dip the floured chicken piece into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
Coat with panko: Immediately press the egg-coated chicken firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring full coverage. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to adhere well. Place coated nuggets on a plate. Repeat for all pieces.
Cook the nuggets (Frying Method): Heat oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place nuggets into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
Cook the nuggets (Baking Method): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the breaded nuggets with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Make the honey dip: While the nuggets cook, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and water in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve the hot nuggets immediately with the prepared honey dip.
Notes
For extra crispiness when baking or air frying, lightly spray the breaded nuggets with oil before cooking.
You can freeze uncooked, breaded nuggets on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for later use. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
If you prefer a tangier dip, increase the apple cider vinegar by one teaspoon.