Name: Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 400 g Chicken Breast; 20 cl Liquid Cream; 1 whole Egg White; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 200 g Flour; 4 whole Eggs; 4 tbsp Oil; to taste Salt; 200 g Breadcrumbs; 5 g Powdered Cumin; 1 litre Peanut Oil; 100 g Gouda; 10 cl Milk

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It’s a classic comfort food that never fails to bring back memories—Homemade Chicken Nuggets. When I think about my childhood, I remember the excitement of having friends over for movie nights, and my mom would whip up a batch of these golden nuggets. The crunchy exterior and tender, juicy inside made each bite a delightful experience. I can still hear the sizzle as they cooked in the skillet, filling the house with an irresistible aroma. There’s something about the ease and simplicity of making Homemade Chicken Nuggets that makes it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or a fun family gathering. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve added my own twist to the classic recipe with a creamy gouda sauce that takes these nuggets to a whole new level. Whether dipping them or drizzling, it’s a combination that guarantees satisfaction.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Large Pot, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl

Why This Homemade Chicken Nuggets Hits Different

Homemade Goodness

When you make Homemade Chicken Nuggets, you know exactly what goes into them. This recipe is all about wholesome ingredients, and you can feel good serving them to your family. Unlike store-bought versions, these nuggets are free from preservatives and artificial flavors. You can customize them with your favorite spices and flavors, making each batch uniquely yours.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These nuggets aren’t just for kids; they bring joy to adults, too. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a game day snack, or a party appetizer, Homemade Chicken Nuggets fit the bill. Pair them with a fresh salad, some veggies, or just a good old-fashioned dipping sauce, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love.

Easy to Make

If you think making nuggets is complicated, think again! This recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible for anyone, even those who don’t consider themselves expert cooks. With just a few steps and basic ingredients, you can create delicious nuggets that rival any restaurant.

Endless Variations

What I love most about these nuggets is how versatile they are. You can easily tweak the spices or add different herbs for varied flavors. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some cheese or chopped veggies to the mix. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrition while keeping the taste amazing.

Family-Friendly Fun

Get the kids involved! Making Homemade Chicken Nuggets can be a fun family activity. They can help with washing and preparing the ingredients, or rolling the nuggets in breadcrumbs. It’s a great way to bond over cooking and teach them some kitchen skills along the way.

Recipe Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the perfect nuggets. Each component plays a significant role in achieving that crispy texture and rich flavor. The main players in this recipe are fresh chicken and creamy gouda, complemented by a selection of spices and pantry staples that bring everything together.

400g Chicken Breast – The star of the dish, use fresh chicken breast for tender and juicy nuggets.
20cl Liquid Cream – Adds creaminess to the stuffing, enhancing the overall flavor.
1 Egg White – Helps bind the mixture, giving it the right texture.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
Pepper – Adds a little kick to the flavor profile.
200g Flour – Used for the first coating, contributing to that crispy outer layer.
4 Eggs – Combined with oil and salt for the second coating, ensuring the breadcrumbs stick well.
4 tbsp Oil – Used in the egg mixture for added richness.
200g Breadcrumbs – Provides the crunchy coating that makes these nuggets irresistible.
5g Powdered Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the nuggets.
1 Litre Peanut Oil – For frying, ensuring a crispy texture.
100g Gouda – The secret ingredient for the creamy sauce that elevates this dish.
10cl Milk – Used to melt the gouda, creating a smooth dipping sauce.

Recipe Steps for Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Cooking these Homemade Chicken Nuggets is a fun journey from start to finish. Each step builds anticipation as you create these delightful bites. Let’s dive into the cooking process that will lead to your new family favorite.

Begin by cutting 100g of chicken breast into small cubes. Set these aside as we prepare the stuffing. The size will help them mix well with the other ingredients.
Next, in an electric mixer, combine 300g of chicken breast, liquid cream, and the egg white. Mix until very finely blended, creating a smooth mixture. This is where the magic begins, as the smooth texture helps in binding the nuggets.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this delicious stuffing into a salad bowl, where we’ll later mix in the diced chicken. This is a crucial step for flavor, and a good mix ensures every bite is delicious.
Add the diced chicken to the bowl and mix well. This ensures the chicken cubes are evenly coated and integrated into the stuffing, promising a delightful texture in each nugget.
Now, take about 25 cm of cling film and lay it flat on your worktop. Spoon some of the stuffing onto the film. This is the base for forming our chicken rolls.
Using the cling film, roll the stuffing into a cylinder about 3 cm in diameter. Tightly roll the cling film around it, twisting the ends to seal. This step is key to shaping the nuggets while keeping them moist during cooking.
Repeat this process until all the stuffing is used up. You should have several rolled chicken mixtures ready. This technique not only gives them shape but also retains their juicy interior.
Bring a pan of water to a simmer (not a boil) and cook the chicken rolls for about 25 minutes. It’s essential to keep the water temperature low to prevent the rolls from bursting open.
After cooking, let the rolls cool for a few moments, then unwrap them from the cling film. Cut each roll into slices about 1 cm thick and set aside in the fridge. This chilling step helps firm them up for frying.
Prepare three soup plates: one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, mixed with oil and salt, and the third with breadcrumbs mixed with cumin.
Take each nugget slice and roll it first in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Repeat this for a double coating, which adds extra crunchiness. Set the breaded nuggets aside as you prepare for frying.
In a separate saucepan, melt the gouda with milk over low heat, stirring until smooth. Be careful not to boil it; we want a creamy sauce that complements the nuggets, not a mess.
Heat the peanut oil in a pan. Once hot, plunge the breaded nuggets into the oil in batches. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Watch closely as they cook to avoid burning.
Once cooked, drain the nuggets on absorbent paper to remove excess oil. This final step keeps them crispy and not greasy.
Serve the nuggets hot, accompanied by the melted gouda cream for dipping. It’s a treat that everyone will love to soak these crispy nuggets in a rich and creamy sauce!
As a variation, you can also brown the nuggets in a frying pan with a knob of butter for an added richness. This little tip gives them a beautiful golden color and flavor.
Tip: The nuggets are easier to form with a firm stuffing, so don’t hesitate to place the mixture in the freezer for about 30 minutes before you start shaping them.

Things Worth Knowing

Watch the Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the nuggets can become soggy instead of crispy.
Chill the Rolls: Chilling the chicken rolls helps them hold their shape during frying, leading to perfectly formed nuggets.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the nuggets in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can result in uneven cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and cream make all the difference in flavor; don’t skimp on quality!

Recipe Tips about Homemade Chicken Nuggets

To make the most of your cooking experience with Homemade Chicken Nuggets, here are some tips to consider. They will help you achieve the best results and make the process smoother.

Storage: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked nuggets before frying. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in cling film and placed in a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
Pairing: Serve your nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs in the gouda sauce or even add spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist.
Meal Prep: Consider making a large batch ahead of time. You can cook them all at once or freeze half for later use. This is a great way to have a quick meal ready anytime.

Serving Ideas for Homemade Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to serving Homemade Chicken Nuggets, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to make your meal more exciting and enjoyable:

Perfect Pairings: Serve the nuggets with crispy French fries or a fresh garden salad to balance the meal.
Kid-Friendly Dinners: Homemade Chicken Nuggets are great for kids’ parties or casual family dinner nights.
Game Day Snacks: These nuggets are perfect for serving during sports events; just prepare a variety of dips for a fun finger food spread.
Weekend BBQs: Grill the nuggets outside for a smoky flavor and serve them with a homemade dipping sauce.
Lunchbox Treats: Pack some nuggets in your child’s lunchbox with a side of veggies and a small container of sauce for dipping.
Seasonal Themes: During holiday gatherings, make mini nuggets for an appetizer platter that impresses guests. They fit perfectly into any festive meal plan!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the nuggets ahead of time and freeze them before frying. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in cling film and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, you can fry them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

To achieve that perfect crunch, be sure to double coat your nuggets in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Additionally, frying them at the right temperature is crucial. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your nuggets may become soggy instead of crispy. Always ensure the oil is preheated before adding the nuggets.

These nuggets are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with classic sides like French fries or a fresh salad. Dipping sauces also enhance the experience—try ketchup, ranch, or even a homemade honey mustard. They are perfect for lunch boxes or as party appetizers!

Yes! While gouda adds a rich creaminess, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Each cheese will give a different flavor profile to the sauce, so feel free to get creative!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Homemade Chicken Nuggets are a delightful way to bring comfort food into your home. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they are sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try making them—once you do, you may never want to go back to store-bought again!