What To Know
- Omit the salt and pepper from the chicken and breading mixture for a milder flavor.
- With a little practice, you’ll be able to make McDonald’s-style chicken nuggets that taste just as good as the real thing.
- Yes, you can store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Craving those golden-brown, crispy chicken nuggets from McDonald’s? You don’t have to drive to the nearest drive-through anymore. With our step-by-step guide, you can now recreate the iconic flavor and texture of McDonald’s chicken nuggets right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Nuggets:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Create the Breading Mixture
- In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3: Dip and Coat
- Dip the chicken pieces into the breading mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Fry the Nuggets
- Carefully drop the breaded chicken nuggets into the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
- Remove the chicken nuggets from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Nuggets
- Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying to prevent the nuggets from steaming instead of crisping.
- Cook the nuggets until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Serve the chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Nuggets: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breading mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the breading mixture for a cheesy twist.
- Kid-Friendly Nuggets: Omit the salt and pepper from the chicken and breading mixture for a milder flavor.
Final Note
With a little practice, you’ll be able to make McDonald‘s-style chicken nuggets that taste just as good as the real thing. So next time you’re craving those crispy, golden-brown nuggets, skip the drive-through and make them yourself at home.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cutting and breading them.
Q: What dipping sauces are good with chicken nuggets?
A: Popular dipping sauces for chicken nuggets include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce.
Q: How can I make my chicken nuggets extra crispy?
A: To make your chicken nuggets extra crispy, double-coat them in the breading mixture. Dip them in the egg wash, then coat them in the breading mixture again before frying.
Q: What should I do if my chicken nuggets are not cooked through?
A: If your chicken nuggets are not cooked through, return them to the hot oil and continue frying until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I store leftover chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
