When it comes to quick and easy meals, few things beat a plate of crispy, juicy chicken nuggets. But why settle for the same old boring recipe when you can mix and match flavors and ingredients to create something truly unique? Whether you’re a fan of spicy, savory, or sweet, we’ve got you covered with 20 tasty chicken nugget recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these mouthwatering morsels are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy, juicy, and flavorful chicken nuggets, perfectly seasoned with a hint of buttermilk and spices. A perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Soak the floured chicken in the buttermilk for 10-15 minutes.
4. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture again, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the chicken nuggets for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including soaking time.
Baked Parmesan Herb Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful chicken nuggets, infused with the warmth of parmesan cheese and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or after-school treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, basil, and parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful air-fried chicken nuggets smothered in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the honey-mustard mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Panko Crusted Chicken Nuggets
A crispy and flavorful twist on classic chicken nuggets, made with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
4. Roll in gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Ranch Stuffed Chicken Nuggets
Get ready to elevate your chicken nugget game with these mouthwatering BBQ Ranch Stuffed Chicken Nuggets! Tender and juicy, these bite-sized morsels are packed with a flavorful punch of BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small nugget pieces
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and ranch dressing.
3. In a separate bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Stuff each chicken piece with about 1/4 teaspoon of the BBQ-Ranch mixture.
5. Place stuffed chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and creamy chicken nuggets infused with the flavors of jalapeños and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick bite or as a fun twist on traditional appetizers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and mayonnaise.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Shape into small nuggets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Honey Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Sriracha Honey Chicken Nuggets that combine the sweetness of honey and the heat of sriracha sauce. Perfect for a quick bite or as a flavorful addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is cooking, mix together honey and sriracha sauce in a small bowl.
7. Remove chicken from oven and brush with the spicy honey mixture.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Blue Cheese Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these spicy and savory Buffalo Blue Cheese Chicken Nuggets. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dip chicken pieces in the flour mixture, then panko breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and hot sauce.
5. Dip breaded chicken in the egg mixture, coating evenly.
6. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over the top of each nugget.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Breaded Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful chicken nuggets smothered in garlic butter and breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together garlic and butter.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the garlic butter mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with this easy and flavorful recipe for Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Nuggets!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the chicken into nugget-sized pieces. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the lemon pepper mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: With your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing!
Maple Dijon Glazed Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Maple Dijon Glazed Chicken Nuggets! A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is a twist on the classic chicken nugget.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. If desired, dip chicken in Panko breadcrumbs to coat.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Nuggets
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken nuggets! This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of teriyaki sauce, all wrapped up in crispy chicken goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Dredge marinated chicken pieces in panko breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Fry nuggets for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory nuggets, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smokiness of paprika. Perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon smoky paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Crusted Curry Chicken Nuggets
Transform your snack game with these crispy and flavorful Coconut Crusted Curry Chicken Nuggets! This recipe combines the sweetness of coconut flakes, the warmth of curry powder, and the juiciness of chicken to create a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, shredded coconut, and curry powder.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the nuggets and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Nacho Cheese Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious chicken nuggets! Perfect for a quick indulgence or party appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
– 1 egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced jalapeños, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs and grated cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, ranch seasoning, and egg.
4. Dip chicken pieces into the wet mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Fry coated chicken for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and serve warm with nacho cheese sauce and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these creamy and savory Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Nuggets! Fresh basil and mozzarella add a delightful twist to classic chicken nuggets.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
– 1 ball of mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil leaves, and pesto sauce.
3. Stuff each chicken piece with a small amount of mozzarella cheese.
4. Coat each chicken piece with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Glazed Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your chicken nugget game with this sweet and savory Sesame Ginger Glazed recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken nuggets to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken nuggets in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of each nugget.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ranch Bacon Cheddar Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these indulgent Ranch Bacon Cheddar Chicken Nuggets, packed with flavors of creamy ranch, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together ranch seasoning and crumbled bacon.
3. Dip each chicken piece into beaten eggs, then coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with melted butter (optional).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each nugget and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 17-23 minutes
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these tender and flavorful Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Nuggets. With a balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sweet chili sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, sugar, lime juice, honey, sweet chili sauce, and paprika.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with a little vegetable oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with this tangy and savory recipe that combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the crunch of chicken nuggets. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a fun appetizer, these marinated bites are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Optional: your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., honey mustard, ranch dressing)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 tasty chicken nugget recipes! From crispy buttermilk fried chicken to baked parmesan herb, air fryer honey mustard, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try gluten-free panko crusted or BBQ ranch stuffed for a flavorful twist. Spice things up with spicy Sriracha honey or Buffalo blue cheese, or go sweet with maple Dijon glazed or teriyaki pineapple. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, cheesy, or smoky, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
