What To Know
- Ground chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, and it makes for a delicious and budget-friendly alternative to chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken nuggets on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- If you don’t have a frying pan, you can also bake the chicken nuggets in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Chicken nuggets are a beloved snack enjoyed by people of all ages. They are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Traditionally made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken nuggets can also be made with ground chicken, or mince. Ground chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, and it makes for a delicious and budget-friendly alternative to chicken breasts.
This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step guide on making chicken nuggets using ground chicken. We will also share some tips and tricks for making the perfect chicken nuggets. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Shape the Nuggets:
- Take a small portion of the chicken mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Flatten the ball slightly to form a nugget shape.
- Repeat this process until all the chicken mixture is used up.
3. Chill the Nuggets:
- Place the chicken nuggets on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape better during frying.
4. Fry the Nuggets:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken nuggets in the pan.
- Fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain the Nuggets:
- Remove the chicken nuggets from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve:
- Serve the chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
- For extra crispy chicken nuggets, double coat them in bread crumbs.
- To make the chicken nuggets more flavorful, add your favorite herbs and spices to the chicken mixture.
- If you don’t have a frying pan, you can also bake the chicken nuggets in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
- For a healthier version of chicken nuggets, air-fry them instead of frying them in oil.
Variations
- Chicken Nuggets with Cheese: Add a cube of mozzarella cheese to the center of each chicken nugget before frying.
- Chicken Nuggets with Bacon: Wrap each chicken nugget with a slice of bacon before frying.
- Chicken Nuggets with Vegetables: Mix chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini into the chicken mixture before shaping and frying the nuggets.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat chicken nuggets, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the nuggets for 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
What to Serve with Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets are a versatile dish that can be served with various sides. Some popular options include:
- French fries
- Mashed potatoes
- Salad
- Vegetables
- Dipping sauces such as ketchup, mustard, or ranch dressing
Wrap-Up
Chicken nuggets made with ground chicken are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. So, next time you’re craving chicken nuggets, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use a food processor to make the chicken mixture?
A: Yes, you can use a food processor to grind the chicken and mix the ingredients. Just be sure to pulse the ingredients until they are combined, but not over-processed.
Q: How do I know when the chicken nuggets are cooked through?
A: The chicken nuggets are cooked through when they are golden brown on the outside and no longer pink on the inside. You can also insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken nugget. The internal temperature should read 165°F.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken nuggets before frying them?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken nuggets before frying them. To do this, place the uncooked chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
