Healthy Homemade Chicken Nuggets in Under 30 Minutes
Crispy, golden homemade chicken nuggets made with real chicken breast and a crunchy corn flake coating. Ready in just 27 minutes with no deep frying required! These protein-packed nuggets are perfect for picky eaters, meal prep, and busy weeknight dinners. Better than any frozen or fast food version, with ingredients you can feel good about.
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Ingredients
- 2 Chicken Breasts about 1 pound
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 Cups Corn Flakes
- Spray Oil olive or avocado
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into small cubes and add to a food processor along with the 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Process for 30 to 45 seconds until the chicken is completely ground and the spices are evenly distributed.
- Take a small ball of ground chicken (about 2 tablespoons) and shape into a nugget by alternating between flattening it with your palm and pushing the sides in with your fingers to create even, rounded edges. Repeat with remaining chicken mixture.
- Place the 2 cups corn flakes in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin or your hands until broken into small bits. Transfer the crushed corn flakes to a shallow bowl and coat each shaped nugget completely, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
- Arrange the coated nuggets in a single layer in your air fryer basket and spray lightly with oil on all sides.
- Air fry at 390°F for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the outside is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Oven Method: Bake at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through.
Pan Method: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook nuggets for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Spice Variations: Customize the seasoning by adding onion powder, cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian seasoning for different flavor profiles.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked coated nuggets on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding 3 to 5 minutes to the cook time.
Nutrition
Calories: 48kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 7gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 217mgPotassium: 121mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 109IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 1mg
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