Description
Crispy, golden Cheese Chicken Nuggets with juicy chicken and gooey melted mozzarella inside. These homemade nuggets are full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or quick meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
500 grams Ground chicken thighs
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
1 tablespoon Onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
1 1/2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese (or block cheese, cut into small cubes)
1 cup All-purpose flour
1 large Egg, beaten
1 cup Breadcrumbs
1 cup Canola oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Take about 1–1.5 tablespoons of the mixture, flatten slightly, place a pinch of mozzarella cheese in the center, then shape into a ball or nugget, sealing the cheese inside. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Prepare three bowls for coating: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat each nugget by rolling it in flour, dipping it in the egg, then coating it with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat canola oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, fry the nuggets in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or barbecue sauce.
Notes
Use chicken breasts for a leaner option, but thighs make juicier nuggets.
Add cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
Freeze uncooked nuggets for up to 2 months; cook directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 nuggets
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg