Cheese Chicken Nuggets recipe

Let’s be honest, getting dinner on the table that everyone actually loves can feel like winning the lottery. In our house, picky eaters reign supreme, and navigating the dinner battlefield often feels like a strategic mission. But then came these cheese chicken nuggets. Oh. My. Goodness. They were an instant hit! Forget the processed, freezer-aisle versions – these homemade cheese chicken nuggets are in a league of their own. Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and bursting with cheesy goodness, they disappear in minutes. Even my veggie-loving spouse sneaks a few (or maybe more than a few!). What I love most is that they are surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun weekend lunch, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer. If you’re looking for a guaranteed family pleaser that’s both delicious and (dare I say?) a little bit healthier than the store-bought kind, you absolutely must try these cheesy chicken nuggets. Prepare for smiles all around – and maybe even a request for seconds!

Ingredients: Simple, Wholesome, and Deliciously Cheesy

The magic of these cheese chicken nuggets lies in the quality of the ingredients. By using fresh, wholesome components, you elevate this classic comfort food to a whole new level. Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible cheesy delights:

• Chicken Breast (1.5 pounds, boneless, skinless): Chicken breast is the lean protein base of our nuggets. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken breast. You can also use chicken tenders for even quicker preparation.
• Cheddar Cheese (4 ounces, sharp or mild, shredded): Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for chicken nuggets, providing a wonderful melty texture and savory flavor. Sharp cheddar will give a bolder cheese flavor, while mild cheddar is more kid-friendly. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but shredding your own from a block often melts more smoothly and has a fresher flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese (2 ounces, grated): Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich depth of flavor to the nuggets. Use finely grated Parmesan for the best texture and distribution.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup, Panko or regular): Breadcrumbs are essential for the crispy coating.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are larger and flakier than regular breadcrumbs. They create an incredibly crispy and light coating. Highly recommended for superior crunch.
  • Regular Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs will also work well and are readily available. For extra flavor, you can use seasoned breadcrumbs or Italian breadcrumbs.
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Flour is used as the first layer of the breading process, helping the egg wash adhere to the chicken and creating a base for the breadcrumbs.
• Eggs (2 large): Eggs act as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and adding richness to the coating.
• Milk (2 tablespoons): Milk is whisked with the eggs to create an egg wash, thinning it slightly for easier coating.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Garlic powder adds a savory and aromatic depth to the nuggets.
• Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): Onion powder complements the garlic powder and enhances the savory flavor profile.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon, sweet or smoked): Paprika adds a touch of color and a subtle, slightly smoky flavor. Smoked paprika will enhance the savory notes.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Salt enhances all the flavors and seasons the nuggets. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best flavor.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon, freshly ground): Freshly ground black pepper provides a bolder flavor than pre-ground pepper.
• Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil (for frying): Vegetable oil or canola oil are neutral oils with a high smoke point, making them ideal for frying. You’ll need enough oil to come about ½ inch up the sides of your skillet or pot.

Optional Additions and Variations:

• Spices: Experiment with other spices to customize the flavor. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, Italian seasoning for a more herby flavor, or chili powder for a Southwestern twist.
• Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses or cheese blends for a unique flavor profile. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would all be delicious.
• Herbs: Finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano can be added to the chicken mixture or breadcrumbs for extra freshness and flavor.
• Onion: Finely minced onion or shallot can be added to the chicken mixture for a stronger onion flavor.
• Buttermilk Marinade: For extra tender and flavorful chicken, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours before proceeding with the recipe.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier, lower-fat version, these nuggets can be cooked in an air fryer. See the instructions section for air fryer directions.

Instructions: From Prep to Golden Perfection – Making Cheese Chicken Nuggets

Making these cheese chicken nuggets at home is easier than you might think! Follow these step-by-step instructions for crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious results:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Cheese Mixture

1. Cut Chicken into Nuggets: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-1.5 inches in size. Try to keep them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Combine Chicken and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well with your hands to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the chicken.
3. Season Chicken Mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the chicken and cheese mixture. Mix again to thoroughly coat the chicken with the seasonings and cheese.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. Prepare Breading Bowls: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls or dishes.
2. Bowl 1: Flour: Place the all-purpose flour in the first bowl.
3. Bowl 2: Egg Wash: In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
4. Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs: In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs (Panko or regular).

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Nuggets

1. Dredge in Flour: Take a piece of chicken and dredge it in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Dip the flour-coated chicken piece into the egg wash, making sure it is completely submerged. Let any excess egg wash drip off.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Dredge the egg-washed chicken piece in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to all sides. You want a nice, even coating of breadcrumbs.
4. Repeat Breading Process: Repeat the breading process with the remaining chicken pieces until all the nuggets are breaded.
5. Rest (Optional but Recommended for Crispiness): For extra crispy nuggets, place the breaded nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper and let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or even up to 30 minutes. This helps the breading set and adhere better during frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Nuggets

1. Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil or canola oil into a large skillet or pot until it is about ½ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a few breadcrumbs into it – they should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 15-20 seconds.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the breaded chicken nuggets to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy nuggets. Fry in batches of about 6-8 nuggets at a time, depending on the size of your skillet.
3. Fry Until Golden Brown and Cooked Through: Fry the chicken nuggets for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
4. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried chicken nuggets from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Hot: Serve the cheese chicken nuggets immediately while they are hot, crispy, and cheesy.
2. Dipping Sauces (Optional): Serve with your favorite dipping sauces (see “How to Serve” section for suggestions).
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.

Air Fryer Instructions (Healthier Option):

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly Oil Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray) to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange Nuggets in Air Fryer Basket: Place the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches.
4. Air Fry: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 5-6 minutes), or until the nuggets are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Check for Doneness: Check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
6. Serve Hot: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition Facts: A Homemade Treat with Nutritional Value

These homemade cheese chicken nuggets, while still a treat, offer a more wholesome option compared to processed, store-bought versions. Here are approximate nutrition facts per serving (estimated for a serving size of 3-4 nuggets, without dipping sauces, and based on frying method):

Serving Size: 3-4 chicken nuggets (approximately 4-5 ounces or 113-142 grams)

Approximate Values Per Serving (Fried):

• Calories: 350-450 calories (depending on size and amount of breading)
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams (primarily from frying oil and cheese)
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12 grams (from cheese and frying oil)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8-13 grams (from frying oil and chicken)
• Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
• Sodium: 400-600 mg (depending on salt added and cheese used)
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams (primarily from breadcrumbs and flour)
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 1-2 grams

Approximate Values Per Serving (Air Fried):

• Calories: 280-350 calories (significantly lower in fat)
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams (much lower than fried version)
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
• Sodium: 400-600 mg
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 1-2 grams

Key Nutritional Considerations:

• Good Source of Protein: Chicken breast provides a high amount of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Calcium from Cheese: Cheese contributes calcium, important for bone health.
• Moderate in Fat (Fried Version): Fried chicken nuggets are higher in fat, particularly saturated fat.
• Lower in Fat (Air Fryer Version): Air frying significantly reduces the fat content, making them a healthier option.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can adjust the recipe to make it even healthier by using whole-wheat breadcrumbs, reducing the amount of cheese, or using leaner cuts of chicken.

Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on the specific ingredients used, portion size, and cooking method. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use.

Preparation Time: Quick and Fun Family Cooking

While there are a few steps involved, the preparation of these cheese chicken nuggets is relatively quick and can even be a fun activity to do with kids!

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (cutting chicken, shredding cheese, setting up breading station, breading nuggets)
• Cook Time (Frying): 10-15 minutes (frying in batches)
• Cook Time (Air Frying): 10-12 minutes (air frying in batches)
• Total Time (Frying): 30-40 minutes
• Total Time (Air Frying): 30-35 minutes

From start to finish, you can have a batch of delicious homemade cheese chicken nuggets ready in under 40 minutes (even faster with air frying!). The hands-on breading process can be a great way to involve kids in the kitchen.

How to Serve: Dipping Delights and Side Dish Superstars

Cheese chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions and dipping sauce ideas to elevate your nugget experience:

Dipping Sauce Extravaganza:

• Classic Ketchup: A timeless and kid-favorite dipping sauce.
• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy classic that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herbaceous, ranch is always a popular choice.
• BBQ Sauce: Smoky, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce adds a different flavor dimension.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: For a touch of Asian-inspired sweetness and spice.
• Cheese Sauce: Double down on the cheese with a warm cheese sauce like nacho cheese or a homemade cheddar sauce.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy and garlicky aioli adds a sophisticated touch.
• Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
• Homemade Honey Sriracha Sauce: Combine honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and a touch of rice vinegar for a sweet, spicy, and savory sauce.

Side Dish Sensations:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Classic nugget companions for a complete fast-food style meal.
• Tater Tots: Another kid-friendly and delicious side dish.
• Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comfort food match made in heaven with chicken nuggets.
• Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast.
• Corn on the Cob or Creamed Corn: Sweet corn complements the savory nuggets.
• Green Salad or Caesar Salad: A fresh salad adds a healthy element and balances the richness of the nuggets.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and nutritious side options.
• Fruit Salad or Fruit Skewers: A light and refreshing fruit salad or fruit skewers provide a sweet and healthy side.
• Potato Salad or Pasta Salad: Heartier salads like potato salad or pasta salad can turn nuggets into a complete meal.
• Soup: Serve alongside a simple soup like tomato soup or chicken noodle soup for a comforting meal.

Fun Serving Ideas:

• Nugget Platter: Create a fun nugget platter with various dipping sauces and side dishes for a party or family gathering.
• Nugget Bowls: Build nugget bowls with a base of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes, topped with nuggets, vegetables, and your favorite sauce.
• Nugget Wraps or Sandwiches: Wrap nuggets in tortillas or serve them on buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
• Nugget Skewers: Thread nuggets onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini for a fun and portable appetizer.

Additional Tips for Crispy and Cheesy Chicken Nugget Perfection

Want to take your cheese chicken nuggets to the next level? Here are five essential tips for achieving crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible results every time:

1. Don’t Skip the Cheese Inside – It’s the Secret Weapon: The shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese mixed directly into the chicken is what sets these nuggets apart. It infuses the chicken with cheesy flavor from the inside out and keeps them incredibly moist and tender. Don’t be tempted to skip this step – it’s the key to “cheese chicken nuggets” and not just “chicken nuggets.”
2. Chill the Breaded Nuggets Before Frying – Crispiness Booster: Chilling the breaded nuggets in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 30 minutes) is a game-changer for crispiness. The cold temperature helps the breading adhere better to the chicken and sets the coating, preventing it from becoming soggy during frying. This step is especially important for achieving that perfect crispy crunch.
3. Maintain the Oil Temperature – Golden Brown Goodness: Maintaining the correct oil temperature (350-375°F or 175-190°C) is crucial for frying. If the oil is too cold, the nuggets will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly before the chicken is cooked through. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding and lowering the oil temperature.
4. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Maximum Crunch – Texture Matters: While regular breadcrumbs will work, Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for the ultimate crispy coating. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and flakier, creating a lighter and crunchier texture that is simply irresistible. They hold their crispness beautifully even after frying.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet or Air Fryer – Even Cooking is Key: Whether you are frying or air frying, avoid overcrowding the skillet or air fryer basket. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and prevent the nuggets from cooking evenly and becoming crispy. Cook in batches, ensuring there is enough space between the nuggets for proper heat circulation. This will guarantee golden brown, crispy nuggets every time.

FAQ: Your Cheese Chicken Nugget Questions Answered

Got questions about making these cheesy and delicious chicken nuggets? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q1: Can I bake these cheese chicken nuggets instead of frying or air frying?

A: Yes, you can bake these cheese chicken nuggets, although they won’t be as crispy as fried or air-fried nuggets. To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until cooked through and lightly golden brown. For slightly crispier baked nuggets, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Q2: Can I make these cheese chicken nuggets gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can make these cheese chicken nuggets gluten-free with a few substitutions. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular all-purpose flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs (many brands of gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs are available). Double-check all ingredient labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Q3: Can I freeze cheese chicken nuggets?

A: Yes, these cheese chicken nuggets freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. To freeze, cook the nuggets according to the recipe instructions and let them cool completely. Place the cooled nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. Once frozen solid, transfer the nuggets to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat frozen nuggets, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or air fry them at 380°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, until heated through and crispy.

Q4: Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breast?

A: While you can use ground chicken, the texture will be different. Ground chicken nuggets will be softer and less chunky than nuggets made with diced chicken breast. If using ground chicken, combine it with the cheese and seasonings, form into nugget shapes, and then proceed with the breading and cooking instructions. Ground chicken nuggets will cook faster, so adjust cooking time accordingly.

Q5: What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs? Can I use regular breadcrumbs?

A: Yes, you can definitely use regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have Panko breadcrumbs. Regular breadcrumbs will still create a crispy coating, although it won’t be quite as light and crunchy as Panko. You can also use seasoned breadcrumbs or Italian breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If using regular breadcrumbs, you may want to press them onto the nuggets a bit more firmly to ensure they adhere well.

Enjoy making and devouring these homemade cheese chicken nuggets! They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike, and a much tastier and healthier alternative to store-bought versions.

Print