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Crispy Chicken Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip

A mound of golden brown, crispy chicken nuggets served on a white plate next to a small bowl of honey mustard dip.

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Make restaurant-quality crispy chicken nuggets at home using a simple three-step breading process, served with a tangy and sweet homemade honey mustard dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for air frying/baking)
  • For the Honey Mustard Dip:
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. This step helps prevent soggy nuggets.
  2. Set up the dredging station: Place flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish. In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  3. Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Finally, press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat completely. Place breaded pieces on a wire rack.
  4. Cook the nuggets (Frying Method): Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add nuggets in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Cook the nuggets (Air Fryer Method): Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the breaded nuggets with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
  6. Cook the nuggets (Oven Method): Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Make the dip: Whisk together all honey mustard dip ingredients (Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder) in a small bowl until smooth.
  8. Serve the crispy chicken nuggets immediately with the homemade honey mustard dip.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness when baking or air frying, lightly spray the breaded nuggets with oil before cooking.
  • If you prefer a tangier dip, slightly increase the amount of apple cider vinegar.
  • If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Nutrition