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Homemade Fried Chicken Nuggets

Crispy, golden-brown chicken nuggets made from scratch for a quick and satisfying meal.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons seasoned salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups canola oil for frying; about 1 inch deep

Instructions

  • Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise, then cut into uniform 1½ x 1½ x ½-inch chunks so they cook evenly.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and honey until combined.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley.
  • Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture; place breaded pieces on a plate until ready to fry.
  • Pour canola oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1 inch and heat over medium-high until hot but not smoking.
  • Fry the chicken in small batches without crowding the pan; cook each batch about 3 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook about 2 more minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches 165°F internally.
  • Remove cooked nuggets with tongs and drain on a plate lined with paper towels; repeat with remaining chicken, letting oil return to temperature between batches.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
  • Oven alternative: place breaded nuggets on a sheet pan, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
  • Air fryer alternative: cook breaded nuggets at 380°F for 7 minutes, flip, then cook 7 more minutes.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Paper Towels
  • baking sheet (for oven method)
  • air fryer rack or basket (for air fryer method)

Notes

  • Use a large skillet with sides deep enough for 1 inch of oil.
  • Pat chicken dry before breading to help coating adhere.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches and let oil return to temperature between batches.
  • Cooking time varies with nugget size; check for doneness.
  • Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • For oven or air fryer methods follow the alternate instructions provided.