DIY Chicken Tenders and Nuggets: The Ultimate Guide

Making your own chicken tenders or nuggets is a straightforward and rewarding process! Here’s a simple recipe for both, including the batter and frying method, that will satisfy even the pickiest palates. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or preparing for card games with friends, these recipes are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast cut into strips for tenders or bite-sized pieces for nuggets

For the Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for color and flavor)

For the Wet Mixture

1 cup buttermilk or regular milk with a splash of vinegar 1 large egg

For Breading

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch is a great option)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

- Cut the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Make the Wet Mixture

- In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.

Prepare the Dry Mixture

- In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat it in the dry flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Finally, dip it back into the wet mixture and then coat it with breadcrumbs. This double-breading technique gives a crunchy texture.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to about 350°F (175°C). You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve

Enjoy your homemade chicken tenders or nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces!

Tips for Extra Flavors

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the buttermilk for a few hours or overnight. Experiment with different spices in the batter to customize the flavor to your liking. Baking is an alternative to frying if you prefer a healthier option: bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

This method will yield delicious chicken tenders or nuggets that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside! Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a quick snack, these homemade chicken tenders and nuggets are sure to please.

Conclusion

Creating your own chicken tenders or nuggets at home is not only fun but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. From the choice of spices to the technique of breading and frying, every step contributes to a perfect end result. With these simple tips, you can impress your friends and family with your cooking skills, or even perfect your recipe for future parties and get-togethers. Happy cooking!