Ground Chicken Nuggets

Introduction

Ground Chicken Nuggets are a healthier, easy-to-make alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Made from lean ground chicken, these nuggets are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. They’re coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust and lightly seasoned, making them a great option for a family-friendly meal, snack, or party appetizer.

I made these for a casual dinner, and they were a huge hit with everyone—especially the kids! The best part? You can customize them to your liking. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue, or even add them to a salad for a protein-packed boost.

What’s fantastic about these chicken nuggets is how versatile they are. You can make a big batch in no time and store them for later, or enjoy them fresh out of the oven. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or for serving at a get-together. Whether you’re dipping, snacking, or adding them to a meal, these ground chicken nuggets are sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

Perfect for:

• Family meals
• Game day snacks
• Lunchboxes
• Kids’ parties
• Dipping sauce lovers

Why You’ll Love This Ground Chicken Nuggets

Here’s why Ground Chicken Nuggets will become your new favorite:

• Healthy Alternative: Made with lean ground chicken, these nuggets are a healthier option compared to traditional fried chicken nuggets.
• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these nuggets are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy days.
• Crispy and Tender: The breadcrumb coating provides a satisfying crunch, while the ground chicken inside stays juicy and tender.
• Customizable Flavor: The seasoning is simple, but you can easily adjust it to suit your tastes, adding herbs, spices, or even a little heat.
• Kid-Friendly: These nuggets are a hit with children and adults alike, making them a great go-to for picky eaters.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (about 12-15 nuggets)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Chicken Nuggets:

• 1 lb ground chicken (preferably lean)
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat or panko)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken is the key to a lighter nugget, offering a healthier alternative to traditional nuggets made from chicken breast or thigh meat.
• Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs form the crispy coating for the nuggets, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adding Parmesan enhances the flavor of the breadcrumbs, making the crust extra savory and delicious.
• Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping the ground chicken mixture hold together while cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Ground Chicken Nuggets:

Prepare the Nugget Mixture:

1. Preheat the Oven (Optional for Baking): If you prefer to bake the nuggets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. If you plan to pan-fry, skip this step.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
3. Form the Nuggets: Take small portions of the chicken mixture and shape them into bite-sized nugget shapes (about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter). Press them firmly to ensure they hold their shape while cooking.

Cook the Nuggets:

4. Pan-Fry Method:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the shaped nuggets to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
   • Fry the nuggets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
   • Transfer the cooked nuggets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
   Baking Method (Optional):
   • Place the shaped nuggets on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with olive oil spray.
   • Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve: Let the nuggets cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

How to Serve Ground Chicken Nuggets

Ground Chicken Nuggets can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve these nuggets with your favorite sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
• On a Salad: Add the cooked nuggets to a salad for a protein-packed lunch or dinner.
• With Vegetables: Pair these nuggets with roasted or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• In Wraps or Sandwiches: Use the nuggets in a wrap with some lettuce and dressing, or serve them as part of a chicken sandwich.
• As a Snack: Perfect for a quick snack, these nuggets are great for dipping and nibbling throughout the day.

Additional Tips for Ground Chicken Nuggets

Here are some tips to ensure your Ground Chicken Nuggets are perfect every time:

• Use Lean Ground Chicken: For a healthier option, use lean ground chicken, but make sure it’s not too lean to keep the nuggets moist and tender.
• Don’t Overwork the Mixture: When mixing the chicken mixture, be gentle. Overworking it can result in dense, tough nuggets.
• Chill the Nuggets (Optional): If you find the mixture too sticky to work with, chill the nuggets in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
• Try Baking for Less Fat: If you prefer a lighter version, baking the nuggets in the oven instead of frying is a great option.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add extra flavor and heat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken nuggets, use a meat thermometer to ensure they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Recipe Variations for Ground Chicken Nuggets

Here are 10 variations you can try for Ground Chicken Nuggets:

• Spicy Chicken Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheddar Chicken Nuggets: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Vegetable Chicken Nuggets: Add finely grated zucchini or carrots to the mixture for added nutrition.
• Bacon Chicken Nuggets: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Nuggets: Toss the cooked nuggets in buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy twist.
• Italian Chicken Nuggets: Add chopped fresh basil and oregano to the mixture for a herby, Italian-inspired flavor.
• Panko-Crusted Chicken Nuggets: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crispy, crunchy texture.
• Lemon Herb Chicken Nuggets: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a refreshing twist.
• Coconut Chicken Nuggets: Coat the nuggets in shredded coconut before frying for a tropical, sweet crunch.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken Nuggets: Serve with a sweet and sour sauce for a tangy-sweet flavor combination.

Freezing and Storage for Ground Chicken Nuggets

• Freezing: These chicken nuggets freeze well. To freeze, lay the cooked nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. You can bake or reheat the nuggets directly from frozen.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

Special Equipment for Ground Chicken Nuggets

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Ground Chicken Nuggets easier:

• Skillet or Pan: A large skillet or frying pan is ideal for frying the nuggets to a perfect golden brown.
• Baking Sheet (for Baking): Use a baking sheet if you prefer to bake the nuggets.
• Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop is a handy tool to ensure that each nugget is the same size for even cooking.
• Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken nuggets, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Mixing Bowls: Use a mixing bowl to combine the chicken mixture and another for the breadcrumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions for Ground Chicken Nuggets

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
   Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for chicken, and the nuggets will still turn out delicious.
2. Can I make these nuggets in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the nuggets ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook them.
3. Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying them?
   Yes, baking is a great alternative to frying. Just make sure to lightly spray the nuggets with oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
4. How do I know when the nuggets are done?
   The nuggets should be golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
   Yes, grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the mixture for extra nutrition.

Print

Conclusion

Ground Chicken Nuggets are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional chicken nuggets, offering a crispy, golden exterior and a juicy, tender interior. Perfect for any occasion, these nuggets can be enjoyed as a main dish, snack, or appetizer. They’re easy to make, quick to cook, and customizable to suit your flavor preferences—whether you’re adding spices, herbs, or dipping sauces.

Great for family meals, meal prepping, or even as a fun party snack, these chicken nuggets bring all the flavor you crave with a lighter twist. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing with loved ones, they’re sure to be a hit!

I’d love to see how your Ground Chicken Nuggets turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy cooking!