Name: Simple Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 - 2 pounds Chicken Tenderloins (About 12 pieces.); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme; 2 teaspoons Paprika; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 tablespoon Butter (Melted.)

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The Simple Chicken Nuggets recipe holds a special place in my heart. I remember the excitement in my house whenever I announced that we were having chicken nuggets for dinner. It was a surefire way to bring smiles to the table. The kids would gather around, their eyes sparkling with anticipation as they helped mix the ingredients. The aroma of freshly baked nuggets wafting through the air would make everyone’s stomach growl. This recipe isn’t just about making dinner; it’s about creating memories and bonding over something so simple yet so delightful.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Simple Chicken Nuggets Hits Different

1. Easy and Quick to Prepare

One of the best parts about the Simple Chicken Nuggets recipe is how incredibly easy it is to whip up. With just a few ingredients, you can have delicious nuggets ready in no time. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids absolutely love chicken nuggets, and this recipe is no exception. It’s an interactive cooking experience where children can help cut chicken tenderloins and dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture. Watching them get involved is heartwarming and creates lasting memories. Plus, they’re more likely to eat something they helped make!

3. Customizable Flavors

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily customize the flavors to suit your preferences. Want to add some spice? Consider introducing cayenne pepper or even a pinch of garlic powder. The versatility of the Simple Chicken Nuggets allows for creativity in the kitchen!

4. Perfect for Any Meal

These nuggets can be enjoyed at any meal – lunch or dinner. You can serve them with a side of veggies, fries, or a fresh salad. They also make a fantastic party appetizer, and everyone will appreciate their crispy, golden goodness.

5. Healthier Alternative

When you make your own chicken nuggets, you control the ingredients, making them a healthier option than store-bought varieties. You can use fresh chicken and whole ingredients, which is a great way to ensure a wholesome meal that everyone can enjoy without guilt.

Key Ingredients for Simple Chicken Nuggets

For the Simple Chicken Nuggets, the ingredients work in harmony to create a crispy and flavorful treat. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken tenderloins to the aromatic spices that provide depth to every bite. When combined, they create a delightful balance of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

Chicken Tenderloins: 1 and a half to 2 pounds of tender chicken, about 12 pieces. Chicken tenderloins are ideal for nuggets due to their tenderness and ability to cook quickly.
All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup. This is used to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy outer layer once baked.
Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Adds a lovely herbal note that brightens the flavor of the chicken.
Paprika: 2 teaspoons. This spice imparts a mild sweetness and gorgeous color to the nuggets.
Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon. Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: 1 tablespoon, melted. This adds richness and helps the coating crisp up beautifully.

How to Assemble Simple Chicken Nuggets

Assembling the Simple Chicken Nuggets is a straightforward process that brings joy to home cooks. It’s all about combining the right elements to create something everyone will love. Let’s dive into the steps to make these delightful nuggets.

First, preheat your oven to 425º F. This ensures that the nuggets will bake evenly and become beautifully golden. You want to create that perfect crunch, and a well-preheated oven is key!
Next, in a medium bowl, mix together the flour, thyme, paprika, and kosher salt. This is where the magic begins. The combination of the spices will create a flavorful coating that clings wonderfully to the chicken.
Now, cut the chicken tenderloins into 1-inch to 2-inch pieces. The size can depend on your preference, but keeping them uniform will help with even cooking. Don’t worry about perfection; just aim for similar sizes.
Take a baking dish and spray it with a butter-flavored non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the nuggets from sticking and allow them to crisp up nicely. Then, pour the melted butter into the bottom of the baking dish.
Next, dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. It’s essential to shake off any excess so that your nuggets do not become too heavy or doughy.
Once they are coated, place the nuggets into the prepared baking dish. Ensure they’re arranged in a single layer, giving space for heat to circulate around them.
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. About halfway through, be sure to turn the nuggets gently, so they brown evenly. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color that signals they’re ready to be devoured.
After 25 minutes, check for doneness. The nuggets should be crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Trust your senses; the wonderful aroma will guide you!
Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and make them easier to handle.

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the right chicken: Make sure to use tenderloins or boneless breast for the best texture.
Adjust seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different spices like cayenne for heat or garlic powder for added depth.
Baking vs. frying: Baking is healthier, but if you prefer a deep-fried version, feel free to fry them in hot oil.
Make ahead: These nuggets can be prepared in advance and frozen for a quick dinner option later.

Tips and Variations

When it comes to making the Simple Chicken Nuggets, there are always ways to enhance your experience. Here are some great tips and variations you might consider:

Storage: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore that crispy texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked nuggets on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when you need a quick meal.
Pairing: These nuggets pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch.
Fresh herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the coating for an extra flavor kick.
Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Spicy twist: Add some chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy version that packs a punch!

Accompaniments for Simple Chicken Nuggets

Serving the Simple Chicken Nuggets can be just as fun as making them! Here are some delightful accompaniment ideas to elevate your meal:

Fries: Serve with classic fries or sweet potato fries for a satisfying crunch.
Salad: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the nuggets and add a healthy touch.
Dipping sauces: Set out a variety of sauces to cater to all tastes, from sweet to tangy.
Perfect for parties: These nuggets make excellent finger food, perfect for birthday parties or family gatherings.
Lunchbox treat: Pack them in your child’s lunchbox with some fruit and a small container of dipping sauce.
Game day snack: They’re also great for watching the game with friends, served alongside chips and salsa.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare your Simple Chicken Nuggets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Additionally, you can freeze the uncooked nuggets. Just lay them out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them directly from frozen. They make for a quick and easy meal!

There are plenty of delicious dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with Simple Chicken Nuggets. Traditional options include honey mustard, ranch, and barbecue sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try spicy mayo or a tangy aioli. The key is to choose sauces that complement the crispy texture and flavorful coating of the nuggets.

While tenderloins work best in this recipe for their tenderness, you can certainly use boneless chicken breasts as an alternative. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Feel free to experiment with other cuts as well, but remember that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.

To store leftover Simple Chicken Nuggets, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven for the best texture. This will help restore their crispiness and make them taste almost as good as fresh!

Conclusion

The Simple Chicken Nuggets recipe brings joy to the dinner table with its delicious flavors and crunchy texture. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal, as it’s sure to become a favorite!