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Crispy Chicken Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip

A stack of golden brown, crispy chicken nuggets served with a side of bright yellow honey mustard dip.

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Make homemade chicken nuggets with an extra crispy coating and serve them with a simple, tangy honey mustard dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking/air frying)
  • For the Dip: 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • For the Dip: 1/4 cup honey
  • For the Dip: 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • For the Dip: 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Set up the dredging station: Use three shallow dishes. In the first, place 1 cup flour mixed with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. In the second, place the beaten eggs. In the third, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge the chicken: Take each chicken piece and coat it first in the seasoned flour (Dish 1), shaking off excess. Dip it completely in the egg (Dish 2). Finally, press it firmly into the panko breadcrumbs (Dish 3) to ensure full coverage. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and panko step (double-dredge). Place coated nuggets on a tray.
  4. Cook the nuggets: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place nuggets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
  5. Alternatively, for baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray nuggets with cooking spray and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  6. Alternatively, for air frying: Preheat air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Cook in a single layer for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  7. Make the dip: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
  8. Serve the crispy nuggets immediately with the honey mustard dip.

Notes

  • For the crispiest result when frying, maintain the oil temperature strictly between 340°F and 350°F.
  • If baking or air frying, a light coating of cooking spray on the panko before cooking helps achieve better browning.
  • You can substitute chicken breast with tenderloins for slightly smaller, uniform nuggets.

Nutrition