The Crispy Homemade Recipe Everyone Loves
These homemade chicken nuggets are golden, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Made with simple ingredients and baked or air-fried, they’re a healthier, family-friendly alternative to fast food.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
- - 2 large eggs beaten
- - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
- - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- - 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray for baking/air frying
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip floured chicken into the egg, then press into the seasoned panko, coating evenly.
- Place nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray or brush with oil.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165 °F / 74 °C).
- For air fryer: Cook at 390 °F (200 °C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking basket halfway.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.