Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Ground Chicken are a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought nuggets. By using ground chicken, you can control the ingredients and the cooking process, resulting in a juicy and flavorful snack that's perfect for kids and adults alike. These homemade nuggets are also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and spices, making them a nutritious option for a quick meal or snack. With a little creativity and some basic cooking skills, you can create a variety of flavors and textures to suit your taste preferences.
Recipe: Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Ground Chicken
Ingredients:
* 1 pound ground chicken
* 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small nuggets, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size. You should end up with around 12-15 nuggets.
4. Place the nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each nugget to allow for even cooking.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the nuggets and gently toss to coat.
6. Bake the nuggets for 15-18 minutes, or until they're cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. Flip the nuggets halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
7. Remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or condiment.
Tips and Variations:
* To add extra flavor and moisture, you can mix in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
* For a spicy kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
* Experiment with different seasonings, such as dried herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano) or spices (e.g., cumin, coriander), to create unique flavor profiles.
* If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can coat the nuggets with additional panko breadcrumbs or some grated cheddar cheese before baking.
* For a gluten-free option, replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Other Version Ideas:
* Korean-style nuggets: Add some chopped kimchi and a drizzle of Gochujang sauce to the mixture for a spicy and savory flavor.
* Italian-style nuggets: Mix in some chopped Italian parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of dried oregano for an Italian-inspired flavor.
* Mexican-style nuggets: Add some diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy and tangy flavor.
* Greek-style nuggets: Mix in some crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and a pinch of dried oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
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