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Crispy Chicken Nuggets

Juicy, golden chicken nuggets with a shatter-crisp coating — better than anything from a freezer bag.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
marinating 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American Fast Food Copycat
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 4 cups vegetable oil

Instructions
 

  • Cut chicken thighs into 1.5-inch pieces and marinate in seasoned buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
  • Whisk flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together in a separate bowl.
  • Dredge nuggets in flour mixture, pressing to create craggy bits. Double-dredge for extra crunch.
  • Heat oil to 350°F. Fry nuggets in small batches for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  • Drain on a wire rack and serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Notes

Always drain on a wire rack, never paper towels.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Keyword crispy chicken nuggets, homemade nuggets, copycat nuggets, fried chicken nuggets