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Extra Crunchy Homemade Chicken Nuggets

A pile of golden brown, extra crunchy homemade Crispy Chicken Nuggets Homemade Extra Crunchy on a white plate.
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Follow this detailed recipe to make homemade chicken nuggets with an exceptionally crispy and crunchy coating, similar to fast-food quality.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water
  • 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes (optional, for extra crunch)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for air frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating adhere.
  2. Set up the dredging station: Place flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a shallow dish and mix well. In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk/water together. In a third shallow dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes, if using.
  3. Dredge the chicken (Double Dip Method): Take a piece of chicken and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Panko mixture until fully coated. Repeat for all pieces.
  4. Chill the nuggets: Place the coated nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the coating set and prevents sogginess during cooking.
  5. Cook the nuggets: For deep frying, heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Drain on a wire rack.
  6. For air frying: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the nuggets with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  7. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Using chicken thighs instead of breast will result in a more moist interior.
  • For the crunchiest result, do not skip the chilling step; it sets the breading.
  • If baking, place nuggets on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hungryhearld.com/crispy-chicken-nuggets-homemade-extra-crunchy/