Description
These Chicken Nuggets are a healthier homemade alternative to classic fast-food nuggets, featuring lean ground chicken mixed with cauliflower rice and seasoned with a blend of spices. Perfectly crispy and golden when baked or air fried, they offer a delicious, protein-packed snack or meal that pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs 93% lean ground chicken (organic preferred, not breast only)
- 2/3 cup frozen cauliflower rice
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or gluten-free seasoned crumbs*)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dipping Sauces
- Ketchup
- Honey mustard
- Buffalo sauce
- BBQ sauce
- Special sauce
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, frozen cauliflower rice, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Nuggets: Shape the mixture into 30 round, flat nuggets, each approximately 25 grams.
- Bread Nuggets: Dip each nugget into the beaten egg, then thoroughly coat with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Preheat and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Spray a baking sheet with oil and place the breaded nuggets evenly spaced on the sheet.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake the nuggets for 10 minutes, then flip each nugget and bake for an additional 6 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Spray with oil as needed to maintain crispiness.
- Alternative Air Fry Method: Place the nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray with oil. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8-9 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying with oil again, until nuggets are golden brown and fully cooked.
Notes
- You can substitute seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free seasoned crumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Spraying the nuggets with oil ensures they become crispier during baking or air frying.
- Ensure nuggets are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Cauliflower rice adds moisture and slight texture while keeping nuggets lean and nutritious.
- Use your choice of dipping sauces to suit your flavor preferences.
