When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like the crispy and delicious taste of homemade chicken nuggets. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Pam’s chicken nuggets, a recipe that guarantees satisfaction without the worry of recalls. Yes, you heard it right! This delightful, recall-free dish combines simplicity with flavor, ensuring that each bite is a mouthful of joy. Let’s dive into the world of homemade chicken nuggets: easy to make, enjoyable for the family, and safer than ever before.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Nuggets Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this recipe. First, it’s a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The taste is undeniably phenomenal: crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Each nugget bursts with flavor — thanks to a carefully selected blend of seasonings that make them irresistible. Beyond the taste, these nuggets are incredibly versatile, catering to various dietary needs. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or looking for a kid-friendly meal, these chicken nuggets fit the bill. Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients, ensuring nutritional benefits without compromising flavor.
Ingredients for Pam’s Chicken Nuggets
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- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- Cooking oil for frying (e.g., canola or vegetable oil)
Possible Substitutions and Variations:
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- For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Swap milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Necessary Tools
To bring these scrumptious nuggets to life, you’ll need:
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- A sharp knife and a cutting board
- Three mixing bowls
- A deep frying pan or air fryer
- A slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels for draining excess oil
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
Customize your nuggets to suit your family’s tastes. Add a touch of Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumb mix for a cheesy layer of flavor or include some finely chopped parsley for freshness. Try incorporating other spices like turmeric or cumin for an exotic twist. For the health-conscious, bake these nuggets instead of frying, using a light spray of olive oil for moisture.
How to Make Pam’s Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces is your first task. Consider adding a little salt and pepper to season these pieces before setting them aside. If you’re like me, you’ll enjoy this part — turning raw ingredients into something delicious.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Stations
In one bowl, combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Next, submerge them into the egg mixture before rolling them in breadcrumbs. Don’t rush this step!
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in your pan over medium heat. Fry the nuggets in batches, giving each enough space to crisp up beautifully. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a glorious golden brown.
Step 5: Drain and Enjoy
Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the fried nuggets and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. By this stage, your kitchen will smell irresistible!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces — honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a tangy ranch dressing work wonderfully. Partner them with a side of lightly salted fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Presentation-wise, consider a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a more charming touch.
Pro Tips & Tricks
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- Always preheat your oil to the right temperature (a small breadcrumb should sizzle immediately).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it drops the oil temperature and leads to soggy nuggets.
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk overnight.
How to Store Pam’s Chicken Nuggets
Got leftovers? These nuggets store well! Seal them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Freezing leftovers? Sure! They’ll be good for up to three months.
General Information
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- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
FAQs
Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even baking.
How do I ensure the nuggets are golden brown?
Heat the oil to the right temperature, typically around 350°F (175°C), before frying.
What if the nuggets aren’t cooked completely in the center?
A safer approach is to cut a nugget in half to check; you can also finish them in the oven.
Conclusion
There you have it — Pam’s chicken nuggets in all their glory! I hope you savor every bite of these golden delights. They’re more than just food; they’re a promise of safety and satisfaction. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so please drop a comment below! And if you’re in the mood for more, don’t miss our other exciting recipes like crispy homemade fish sticks or zesty lemon pepper chicken wings.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Enjoy high-quality protein with minimal guilt thanks to the absence of artificial additives. Swap regular flour with almond flour and try air frying for an even healthier approach.
Revel in the joy of home cooking with this tried-and-true recipe, and let’s keep our meals safe, delicious, and recall-free!
PrintPam’s Chicken Nuggets
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 People 1x
Description
Delicious homemade chicken nuggets that are a family favorite, easy to make, and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Main
- 1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip chicken pieces in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated chicken nuggets on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
For a crispier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs. These nuggets can also be fried instead of baked for a different taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 40
Keywords: Chicken nuggets, Homemade nuggets