Homemade Ground Chicken Nuggets

Homemade Ground Chicken Nuggets are tender, flavorful, and easy to make. Ground chicken is seasoned and coated in a Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, then baked or air fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or snack!

Easy and perfectly golden brown homemade chicken nuggets

These crispy breaded chicken nuggets are a classic comfort food that everyone will love. Ground chicken is seasoned, coated in a flavorful Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, and cooked until golden and perfectly crispy. The result? Tender, juicy chicken nuggets with a satisfying crunch on the outside. They taste delicious on their own but are also perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. Great for kids, but adults will love them too! Pair with sweet potato fries for the perfect classic duo, or go with some side veggies for some extra nutrients.

Ingredients used to make homemade ground chicken nuggets

These chicken nuggets use an easy mix of ingredients! Though there are two parts, most of the ingredients are used in both, keeping the item list short. Below is everything you’ll need.

Nuggets

• Chicken: These homemade chicken nuggets begin with a base of 1 lb of ground chicken.
• Parmesan cheese: Next, 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese adds a delicious savory flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs help the chicken nuggets bind together properly. The breadcrumbs also contribute to the texture.
• Seasonings: Finally, add flavor to the nuggets by including 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, 1/2 tsp of onion powder, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper.
• Cooking spray: Nonstick cooking spray will be used during baking. I prefer avocado oil spray.

Breading

• Eggs: 2 eggs will be used to help the breading process and will contribute to creating a nice crisp coating.
• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of bread crumbs will form the crunchy outer layer of the nuggets.
• Parmesan: An additional 1/4 cup of grated parmesan adds extra flavor and helps the breading brown beautifully.
• Seasonings: More seasonings will help create a delicious flavor. Use 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, 1/2 tsp of onion powder, 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of pepper.

Tools used to make chicken nuggets from scratch

This chicken nuggets recipe keeps the list of required tools pretty simple. Below is everything you’ll need, along with measuring cup sizes.

• Baking sheet or air fryer
• Parchment paper
• Nonstick spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Small mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl

To measure out ingredients, you will need the following sized measuring cups: 1/4 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1/4 cup, and 1 cup.

How to make these easy homemade ground chicken nuggets

Follow these easy steps to bread and cook the chicken nuggets to crispy golden perfection.

To begin preparing this recipe, preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Alternatively, preheat an air fryer to 400°F and spray the basket with nonstick spray.

In a large mixing bowl, mix all of the nugget ingredients until everything is well combined. Form the mixture into nugget shapes. You should end up with about 16 nuggets. Freeze for at least 10 minutes to help them keep their shape.

While the nuggets are in the freezer, whisk two eggs in a small mixing bowl. In another medium bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

After ten minutes, coat each nugget on both sides in the egg wash, and then immediately in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the nuggets into the breadcrumb mixture until they’re evenly coated. Place each one on the baking sheet (or in air fryer if air frying).

Spray the nuggets with nonstick baking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, flip + spray, and bake for another 8 minutes, or until golden. If air frying, fry for 6 minutes, flip + spray, and fry for another 6 minutes, or until golden.

Serve with ketchup, mustard, bbq sauce, or buffalo sauce, or toss to coat!

Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to eat, I recommend air frying them to restore their crispiness.

What should I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs are an important part of making these chicken nuggets. However, if you find that you don’t have any on hand, you can try using crushed crackers or pulsed rolled oats. Almond flour also works, especially if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

What is the secret to making chicken tender?

One way to get the perfect level of tenderness is to avoid overcooking. Be sure to bake or air fry just until golden. The eggs and salt will also help prevent dryness.

If you liked this recipe, you’ll want to try these!

Looking for some more chicken dishes? From skillets to lasagna and everything in between, there are so many chicken recipes to explore! Here are some favorites.

• Creamy Chicken Skillet
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
• Chicken Enchilada Skillet
• French Onion Chicken

Recipe by Erin Antoniak and Photos by Bake and Bacon