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Homemade Extra Crunchy 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 guide to make homemade chicken nuggets with an extra crunchy coating, achieving a texture similar to popular fast-food versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes (optional, for extra crunch)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for air frying)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss the cut chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until coated.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish.
  3. In the second dish, whisk the eggs and water together.
  4. In the third dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes, if using.
  5. Take one piece of seasoned chicken and dredge it thoroughly in the flour, shaking off excess.
  6. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
  7. Coat the chicken completely in the Panko mixture, pressing the breading firmly onto the surface. For extra crunch, repeat the egg wash and breading steps (double dip).
  8. Place the breaded nuggets on a wire rack while you finish the remaining pieces.
  9. To fry: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the nuggets in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F or 74°C).
  10. To air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the nuggets with cooking oil. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  11. Remove nuggets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the juiciest interior, use chicken thighs instead of breast meat.
  • If baking, place nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • The double-dipping method is the secret to achieving the thickest, crunchiest exterior layer.

Nutrition

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