Chicken Nuggets

Chicken Nuggets Recipe from Pakistan with Bread Crumbs and Thyme

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken nuggets are a popular and delicious snack or meal option that are loved by both kids and adults alike. These crispy, flavorful bites of chicken are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer.

History

Chicken nuggets were first introduced in the 1950s by the fast food chain, McDonald's. They quickly became a hit and have since become a staple in many households around the world. Originally made with ground chicken meat, modern chicken nuggets are typically made with whole pieces of chicken breast.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh bread crumbs
1 tsp dried herbs, such as thyme, tarragon, rosemary (optional)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
500 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
0.25 cup vinaigrette or black olive paste
oil for frying

How to prepare

To make bread crumbs at home, use a food processor to whirr fresh bread.
If desired, season with herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.
On a cutting board, place the chicken breasts and cut them into strips about 2 inches long and 0.5 inch wide.
Transfer the chicken to a bowl.
Pour the vinaigrette over the chicken pieces.
Using your hands, rub the vinaigrette into the chicken to ensure the crumbs stick to it.
Sprinkle the seasoned bread crumbs over the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
Note that the coating may not be evenly distributed, but it does not affect the outcome.
In a pan, heat enough oil to cover the base over medium heat until it shimmers.
Add the chicken pieces to the pan and sauté them without moving until the crumbs turn golden, approximately 1 minute.
Using tongs, flip the pieces over and sauté the second side until golden, about 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and continue sautéing the chicken, turning the pieces frequently, until they are cooked through, approximately 10 minutes.

Variations

Try using different seasonings in the bread crumbs, such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs.
Use different types of chicken meat, such as thighs or tenders, for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Use a food processor to make fresh bread crumbs for a more flavorful coating.

- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken nuggets to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Pair them with a side salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the chicken nuggets in a pan for a crispy coating.

- Bake the chicken nuggets in the oven for a healthier option.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use panko bread crumbs instead of fresh bread crumbs for a crunchier coating.

- Substitute the black olive paste with pesto or sun-dried tomato paste for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken nuggets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken nuggets on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking, or arrange them on a bed of lettuce for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the chicken nuggets with a light and refreshing beer or a glass of white wine for a delicious combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken nuggets contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken nuggets contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chicken nuggets contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of chicken nuggets contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken nuggets are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Chicken nuggets contain gluten from the bread crumbs and may contain allergens such as soy and dairy depending on the ingredients used.

Summary

Chicken nuggets are a tasty and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a great option for a quick and easy meal.

Summary

Chicken nuggets are a versatile and tasty dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a crispy coating and tender chicken inside, they are sure to be a hit at any meal or gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that my dear friend had gifted me years ago. As I turned the pages, a recipe for homemade chicken nuggets caught my eye. I couldn't believe my luck - I had always been a fan of these crispy, golden nuggets but had never attempted to make them from scratch.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me. I remembered the first time I tried a chicken nugget - I must have been no more than five years old. My mother had taken me to a fast food restaurant as a special treat, and I was instantly smitten with the crunchy coating and tender chicken inside.

Over the years, I had sampled many different versions of chicken nuggets - frozen ones from the grocery store, fast food versions, and even gourmet nuggets from fancy restaurants. But there was something special about the idea of making them myself, from scratch, in my own kitchen.

I decided then and there that I would give it a try. The next day, I headed to the grocery store to pick up all the ingredients I would need. I chose the best quality chicken I could find, along with a variety of herbs and spices to season the coating. I was determined to make these nuggets as delicious as possible.

Back at home, I carefully followed the recipe, coating each piece of chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs before baking them in the oven until they were golden brown and crispy. The smell that wafted through my kitchen was absolutely divine - I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the nuggets were finally ready, I eagerly took a bite. The first thing I noticed was the crunch - it was perfect, just like I remembered from my childhood. The chicken inside was juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of seasoning. I couldn't believe how delicious they were - even better than any nugget I had ever tried before.

I immediately called my friend who had given me the cookbook and excitedly told her about my new creation. She laughed and told me that she had always known I had a talent for cooking, and she was thrilled that I had found a new recipe to add to my repertoire.

From that day on, homemade chicken nuggets became a staple in my kitchen. I made them for family dinners, potlucks with friends, and even just for myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Each time, they were met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with different variations of the recipe. I tried adding different seasonings to the coating, using different types of breadcrumbs, and even experimenting with different dipping sauces. Each new version was met with excitement and praise from my friends and family.

One day, I even entered a cooking competition at a local fair and decided to showcase my homemade chicken nuggets. To my surprise and delight, I won first place in the contest. It was a proud moment for me, and I couldn't help but think back to that lazy Sunday afternoon when I first discovered the recipe that had brought me so much joy and success.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the smells of cooking and the memories of past meals shared with loved ones, I can't help but feel grateful for that fateful day when I came across the recipe for homemade chicken nuggets. It has brought me so much happiness and fulfillment, and I know that it will continue to be a beloved dish in my family for generations to come.