Chicken Nuggets (McNuggets Style)

 

Chicken Nuggets (McNuggets Style): Crispy, Juicy, and Homemade

Who doesn’t love chicken nuggets? That golden, crispy exterior with tender, juicy chicken inside has been a comfort food favorite for decades. But instead of grabbing a fast-food bag, you can make McNuggets-style chicken nuggets right at home — healthier, tastier, and perfect for family meals or snack time.

This recipe recreates that iconic fast-food flavor with simple ingredients and a crispy coating that rivals anything from a restaurant.

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Why You’ll Love Homemade McNuggets

• Crunchy and golden: Extra crispy without deep-frying.

• Juicy chicken: Moist inside thanks to a light buttermilk marinade.

• Customizable: Adjust seasonings, coatings, or dipping sauces to your taste.

• Kid-friendly: Perfect for picky eaters and easy to serve with favorite sides.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

Optional: Vegetable oil for shallow frying or baking spray for oven version

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Marinate in buttermilk with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for extra tenderness).

2. Make the coating:
   In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well.

3. Coat the chicken:
   Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks.

4. Cook the nuggets:

   • Shallow Fry: Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry nuggets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

   • Oven Version: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place nuggets on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

5. Serve:
   Let nuggets rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or sweet and sour sauce.

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Tips for Perfect McNuggets

• Crispier coating: Mix equal parts flour and cornstarch; cornstarch makes the crust extra crunchy.

• Juicy chicken: Don’t skip the buttermilk soak — it tenderizes and adds flavor.

• Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

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Why Homemade Nuggets Are Better

Making nuggets at home lets you control ingredients, cooking methods, and portion size. You can enjoy that nostalgic McNugget taste without the additives or preservatives — and it’s fun to make with kids or friends.