Homemade Chicken Nuggets: Crispy & Delicious!
Forget Frozen! How to Make Delicious Chicken Nuggets & Cutlets from Scratch
I’ve been packing my husband’s lunchbox since February 2016, and after five years, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a great lunch! To take care of his health and save money, I try to make as much as possible from scratch. That’s how I started making chicken nuggets and cutlets at home! Since they’re made with boneless chicken, my husband and kids absolutely love them. Let’s make these wonderful chicken nuggets and cutlets for our family together! ^^
Ingredients- 4 boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 large egg
- Breadcrumbs (plenty)
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the chicken tenderloins. Carefully trim off any thin membranes or protruding tendons from the chicken tenderloins for a clean presentation. Season the prepared chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. This initial seasoning will help the chicken absorb flavor better as it marinates.
Step 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and a tiny pinch of salt until well combined. Prepare two separate shallow dishes: one with 1 tablespoon of flour and another filled generously with breadcrumbs. Ensure you have enough breadcrumbs to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly.
Step 3
Now, let’s coat the chicken tenderloins. First, lightly dredge each piece in the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Gently shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully submerged. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating it completely. Press down gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere well. A good, thick coating of breadcrumbs will result in a wonderfully crispy texture.
Step 4
Your chicken pieces are now ready, coated and waiting to be cooked! Heat a moderate amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Be careful not to overheat the oil, as this can cause the outside to burn before the inside is cooked through. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the pan.
Step 5
Fry the chicken nuggets, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Cooking time will typically be around 7-10 minutes in total, ensuring the chicken is cooked through to the center. For an extra crispy finish, you can spoon some hot oil over the chicken as it fries.
Step 6
Once golden brown and cooked, transfer the chicken nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This step helps keep them wonderfully crisp and less greasy. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup or mustard. They make a fantastic addition to lunchboxes or a delightful snack!
