How to make Crispy Fried Chicken Nuggets

Ingredients

For the Chicken Nuggets:

• 2 pounds (about 900 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Coating:

• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Preparation

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-1.5 inches in size.
2. In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will be your coating mixture.
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Then, roll each piece in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated. Place the coated nuggets on a baking sheet or tray.
5. Heat about 2 inches of cooking oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or frying thermometer to monitor the temperature.
6. Carefully add the chicken nuggets to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 4-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the nuggets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Continue frying in batches until all the chicken nuggets are cooked.
8. Serve your homemade crispy fried chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.