Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These homemade 3-ingredient chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and incredibly easy to make! With just three pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious snack, meal, or party appetizer in no time. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these nuggets are healthier than fast food and made with real chicken—no fillers or preservatives!
Whether you bake, air fry, or fry them, these nuggets are guaranteed to be a hit. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate bite-sized treat!
Ingredients
For 2-3 servings, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 large egg
Optional seasonings (for extra flavor):
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Oven Method:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Coating: Crush the cornflakes into fine crumbs (a food processor or a sealed plastic bag with a rolling pin works well). If using breadcrumbs, add optional seasonings for extra flavor.
- Dip the Chicken: Beat the egg in a bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then roll it in the crushed cornflakes until fully coated.
- Bake: Arrange the nuggets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the coated nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Frying Method:
- Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values based on ingredients used.)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 320mg
Tips & Tricks for the Best Homemade Nuggets
✔ Use Panko for Extra Crispiness: If you don’t have cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs make a great crunchy alternative.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan/Air Fryer: Cook in batches to ensure even crispiness.
✔ Make It Gluten-Free: Use crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
✔ Add Cheese for More Flavor: Mix grated Parmesan into the coating for a cheesy twist.
✔ Dipping Sauce Ideas: Serve with honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo for an extra delicious touch.
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