Chicken Nuggets (6 Pcs) Recipe

Prepare chicken

Trim any fat from the chicken breast and thigh. Cut into 6 equal bite-size pieces (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches each). Pat dry with paper towels.

Marinate

Place the cut chicken pieces in a bowl. Add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp paprika and 1/4 cup buttermilk. Toss to coat, cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours). This tenderizes and seasons the nuggets.

Make breading mix

In a shallow bowl combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cup bread crumbs, 1 tsp grated Parmesan (if using), 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper and 1/8 tsp garlic powder. Mix well so the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Make egg wash

In a separate bowl whisk 1 egg with 1 tbsp cold water until slightly frothy.

Coat the nuggets

Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and then press into the breadcrumb mixture (double-coating gives a crunchier crust). Place coated pieces on a wire rack for 5 minutes to set.

Frying

Pour about 1/2 cup vegetable oil into a skillet to reach roughly 1/4 inch depth and heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a small breadcrumb sizzles on contact. Fry the nuggets in batches (do not overcrowd) for about 2.5–3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate or wire rack.

Grilling (alternative)

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high and brush nuggets lightly with neutral oil. Place nuggets on the grill and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until grill marks form and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Note: grilled nuggets will be less uniformly crispy than fried ones.

Rest

Let the cooked nuggets rest for 2 minutes to redistribute juices before serving.

Whisk together 1 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp lemon juice and a pinch (1/16 tsp) of salt until smooth. Adjust honey or mustard to taste. Serve in a small ramekin alongside the nuggets.