Best Ever Homemade Chicken Nuggets & A Crowd-Pleaser!

These homemade chicken nuggets are not only a crowd pleaser but also toddler approved. My 2.5-year-old can be the fussiest eater of all time, but he can’t resist these chicken nuggets! He won’t even eat nuggets from McDonald’s, so that says a lot!

There’s something magical about these chicken nuggets that makes them irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Maybe it’s the perfectly crispy coating or the juicy, tender chicken inside, but whatever it is, these nuggets have become a staple in our household. They are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. This recipe doesn’t involve any complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for busy parents who want to whip up a quick and nutritious meal.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve these chicken nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces to keep things interesting. My little one loves to dip them in ketchup, but they’re also fantastic with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a homemade ranch dressing. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, you can serve them with a side of carrot sticks or cucumber slices. These nuggets are also great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch, freeze them, and then heat them up whenever you need a quick meal or snack. They reheat beautifully in the oven, retaining their crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s a fun cooking activity to do with kids. My son loves helping me in the kitchen, and making chicken nuggets is one of his favourite tasks. He enjoys dipping the chicken pieces into the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. It’s a wonderful way to get kids involved in cooking and to teach them about different ingredients and cooking techniques.

In addition to being a hit with my toddler, these nuggets have also impressed guests at our family gatherings. They disappear quickly at parties and potlucks, often leaving people asking for the recipe. It’s always a joy to see people’s faces light up when they take that first bite and experience the deliciousness for themselves.

If you’re looking for homemade fried chippies too, check out this recipe here!

Cut the raw chicken in bite size pieces.

You’ll need three bowls – plain flour, egg and panko breadcrumbs.

Panko Crumbs, Flour, Whisked Egg in Bowls
Raw chicken nuggets in a fry pan

After the chicken bites are coated, throw them on the pan.

Cook until a nice golden colour forms.

Chicken nuggets frying in a pan

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store and reheat leftover chicken nuggets?

To store leftover chicken nuggets, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the nuggets on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps retain their crispy texture.

Can I freeze these chicken nuggets?

Absolutely! After cooking the chicken nuggets, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the nuggets to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes.

Can I bake these chicken nuggets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake these chicken nuggets for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the coated chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through.

What dipping sauces go well with these chicken nuggets?

These chicken nuggets pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce. Feel free to get creative and try different sauces to find your favourite combination!