Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Tangy Honey Mustard Sauce

Keyword: homemade chicken nuggets

Cooking up a storm in your kitchen? Homemade chicken nuggets might just be the perfect go-to recipe for you! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, or an exciting weekend treat, these crispy and savory nuggets are sure to satisfy everyone's taste buds. The tangy honey mustard sauce adds the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making them delightful to eat.

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
3 large eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
Peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying
For the honey mustard sauce:

½ cup honey
¼ cup Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 tablespoons water
A few dashes of hot sauce (optional)
Additional seasoning to taste: salt and pepper.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: Serves 4-6 people

Preparation Steps for Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces, making sure to pat dry with a paper towel before proceeding.

Next, make the flour mixture by combining the all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a shallow dish or bowl. Beat the eggs in another shallow dish or bowl until well combined.

In a third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs. This will serve as the coating for the chicken nuggets once they’ve been dipped into both the seasoned flour and beaten egg mixture.

Coating Process

Take each piece of chicken and first roll it in the seasoned flour, ensuring all sides are coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour before dipping them into the beaten eggs, making sure that they get thoroughly covered. Finally, press them against the panko breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.

Frying Process

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully place the coated chicken nuggets into the hot oil and fry for approximately 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Assembly

Once fried to perfection, transfer the cooked nuggets onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve them immediately with the tangy honey mustard sauce on the side.

To make the honey mustard sauce, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding more water or honey according to your preference.

Optional Garnishes

Chopped parsley for extra color and flavor.
Additional hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dip.
Freshly grated cheese like Parmesan can be sprinkled on top of the nuggets.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Nuggets

To ensure the best results, make sure your chicken is completely dried before coating it. This helps the breading adhere better and gives you a crispy exterior. Also, consider using an instant-read thermometer to check if the oil reaches the right temperature. Overcooking can lead to tough nuggets.

Storage & Leftovers

If there are any leftovers after serving, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to reheat, simply place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F until they're heated through and crispy again.

Healthier Option

If you are watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy chicken nuggets, consider using air frying instead of deep frying. Air fryers use less oil while achieving a similar texture, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or crunchiness.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Tangy Honey Mustard Sauce not only save you money compared to buying them from restaurants but also allow you to control the ingredients and portion sizes. Try experimenting with different types of seasonings or sauces to find your perfect combination! Enjoy delicious, crispy chicken nuggets as a family favorite or impress friends with this easy yet impressive recipe.