Chicken Nuggets Recipe (Grill or Stovetop)

Craving something crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious? Well, I’ve got just the thing for you! Chicken nuggets are a family favorite and so easy to make at home.

Trust me, these homemade nuggets are way better than anything you’ll find in a box. They’re super juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside – just how I love them!

You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make them from scratch. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

So, grab your apron and let’s get started! You won’t believe how easy and tasty these chicken nuggets are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Tender: These chicken nuggets have the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and juiciness on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser every time.
• Quick and Easy: With a simple preparation and cooking time, this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to make them gluten-free or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love chicken nuggets, and these homemade ones are healthier than store-bought versions, with no preservatives.
• Perfect for Dipping: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic ketchup to honey mustard or even BBQ sauce.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes about 20 chicken nuggets—enough for 4 people if served as a main dish. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd.

Difficulty:
This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring only a few simple steps. It’s easy enough for kids to help with, too!

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you get started, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of spices and other ingredients.
• Frying Pan or Grill: To cook the chicken nuggets, choose either a stovetop pan or grill for crispy results.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To easily flip the nuggets or remove them from the pan/grill.
• Baking Sheet (optional): If you prefer to bake the chicken nuggets in the oven.

Ingredients for Chicken Nuggets

To make these crispy chicken nuggets, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs of 93% lean ground chicken: This lean ground chicken helps keep the nuggets tender without being too greasy.
• 2/3 cup frozen cauliflower rice: A low-carb alternative to regular rice, cauliflower rice adds texture and helps bind the mixture together.
• 1 large egg (beaten): The egg helps bind the chicken mixture and gives the nuggets their shape.
• 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or gluten-free seasoned crumbs): Breadcrumbs provide the coating for a crispy exterior. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work for those with dietary restrictions.

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Adds flavor and enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild, savory flavor to the nuggets.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives the nuggets a delicious depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the seasoning.

Optional Dipping Sauces:

• Ketchup
• Honey mustard
• Buffalo sauce
• BBQ sauce
• Special sauce (a mixture of mayo, ketchup, and a hint of mustard)

Variations for Chicken Nuggets

• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
• Add Extra Spices: Try adding paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Nuggets: Add some grated cheese to the chicken mixture for a cheesy surprise inside the nuggets.
• Baked Chicken Nuggets: If you prefer to bake the nuggets instead of frying or grilling them, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Dipping Sauce Variety: Experiment with different sauces like ranch dressing or creamy sriracha sauce for extra flavor.

How to Make Chicken Nuggets Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, frozen cauliflower rice, and the beaten egg. Stir in the seasoned breadcrumbs along with the spices: kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined. Be sure not to overmix, as that could make the chicken nuggets tough.

2. Shape the Chicken Nuggets

Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape your nuggets. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Then, gently flatten them with your hands into nugget shapes. If you’d like a more uniform size, you can use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to measure out the portions. Place the shaped nuggets onto a plate or tray to keep them ready for cooking.

3. Cook the Chicken Nuggets

Stovetop Directions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to prevent the nuggets from sticking.
2. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the shaped chicken nuggets into the pan. Be sure to leave some space between each nugget so they can cook evenly.
3. Cook the nuggets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Grill Directions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 375°F (190°C). Clean and lightly oil the grill grates.
2. Place the chicken nuggets on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Flip them gently using tongs or a spatula to avoid breaking them.
3. Grill until they are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken nuggets are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve your chicken nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or buffalo sauce, for extra flavor.
• Side Dishes: Pair the chicken nuggets with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Nuggets

Storing Chicken Nuggets

If you have any leftover chicken nuggets, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To ensure they stay fresh and maintain their flavor, make sure to let the nuggets cool completely before storing them. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

• Freezing: To freeze the chicken nuggets, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the nuggets to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the nuggets using one of these methods:
  • Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken nuggets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
  • Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, microwave the chicken nuggets for 1-2 minutes. However, they won’t be as crispy as when reheated on the stovetop or in the oven.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the chicken mixture, avoid overmixing as it can make the nuggets tough.
• Use Lean Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken (93%) is ideal for this recipe as it’s flavorful and juicy without being too greasy.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be mixed into the chicken mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
• Try Air Frying: If you have an air fryer, it’s an excellent option for cooking these nuggets with less oil. Simply preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the nuggets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving – 5 nuggets)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Protein	22g
Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	1g

(Note: Nutrition information may vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities used.)

Chicken Nuggets FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
While ground chicken is preferred for its texture, you can use finely chopped or ground chicken breast. Just be sure it’s ground finely for the best results.

Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape the nuggets in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook them. You can also freeze them for future use.

How can I make these nuggets spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also dip them in spicy buffalo sauce.

Conclusion

These homemade chicken nuggets are a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought versions. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and plenty of room for customization, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you prefer them grilled or cooked on the stovetop, these chicken nuggets are crispy, juicy, and perfect for dipping into a variety of sauces. Make a batch today for a fun, delicious meal that everyone will love!