Chicken Nuggets from Scratch

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Dipping sauces of choice (e.g., ketchup, honey mustard)

Instructions

1. Begin by setting up a breading station: in one bowl, place the flour mixed with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper; in a second bowl, beat the eggs; and in a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
2. Coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
4. Carefully add the breaded chicken nuggets to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Once cooked, transfer the nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
6. Serve the chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces.