Crispy Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe - Made with Corn Flakes and Honey Mustard

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

Introduction

Crispy Chicken Nuggets are a popular and delicious snack or meal option that is loved by both kids and adults alike. These crunchy and flavorful chicken bites are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a fun party with friends.

History

Chicken nuggets were first introduced in the 1950s by the fast-food chain, McDonald's. Since then, they have become a staple in many households and are enjoyed by people all over the world. This homemade version of crispy chicken nuggets offers a healthier and more flavorful alternative to the store-bought variety.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) skinless and boneless chicken breasts
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp prepared mustard
2 cups corn flakes, crushed
1 tsp ground black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Cut the chicken into 1-inch chunks.
In a small bowl, use a fork to combine the egg, honey, and mustard.
In a medium-sized bowl, add the crushed cornflakes and toss them with the pepper.
Dip the chicken pieces in the egg mixture, then roll them in the cornflakes until they are fully covered.
Place the chicken on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Optional step: Serve with low-fat dipping sauce.

Variations

You can use different types of cereal or breadcrumbs for the coating.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the cornflake mixture for extra flavor.
Try using different seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Crushing the cornflakes finely will help create a crispier coating for the chicken.

- For extra flavor, you can add your favorite herbs and spices to the cornflake mixture.

- To make the nuggets even crispier, you can spray them with cooking spray before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy chicken nuggets can be served with a side of vegetables, a salad, or your favorite dipping sauce. They also make a great addition to a sandwich or wrap.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken nuggets in the oven helps to create a crispy coating without the need for frying. This method is healthier and less messy than traditional frying techniques.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cornflakes on hand, you can use breadcrumbs or panko crumbs as a substitute. You can also use chicken thighs or tenders instead of chicken breasts.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken nuggets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the crispy chicken nuggets on a platter with colorful garnishes such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or fresh herbs. You can also arrange them in a basket for a fun and casual presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Crispy chicken nuggets pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese. They also go well with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of crispy chicken nuggets contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of crispy chicken nuggets contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of crispy chicken nuggets contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Crispy chicken nuggets are a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and wheat (from the cornflakes), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Crispy chicken nuggets are a balanced meal option that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. However, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Crispy chicken nuggets are a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home. With a crunchy coating and tender chicken inside, these nuggets are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main course for a tasty and wholesome meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was visiting my friend Martha, who was a renowned chef in the town. She had invited me over for a cup of tea, and as we sat in her cozy kitchen, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe book from her shelf.

"Have you ever tried making crispy chicken nuggets, my dear?" Martha asked, a twinkle in her eye.

I shook my head, curious. I had always been a fan of chicken nuggets, but the idea of making them at home seemed daunting. Martha, however, reassured me that it was a simple and delicious recipe that I must try.

She handed me the recipe book, pointing to the page that detailed the steps for making the crispy chicken nuggets. The ingredients were simple enough - chicken breast, flour, bread crumbs, eggs, and a mix of spices. But it was Martha's secret seasoning blend that truly made the dish special.

As I read through the recipe, Martha shared with me the story of how she had learned to make the crispy chicken nuggets. It was a recipe that had been passed down to her from her grandmother, who had learned it from her own mother. Over the years, Martha had perfected the recipe, adding her own twist to it.

With Martha's guidance, I set out to make the crispy chicken nuggets for the first time. I carefully seasoned the chicken breast, dredged it in flour, dipped it in beaten eggs, and coated it in bread crumbs. I then fried the nuggets to a golden crisp in a pan of hot oil.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating - a mix of savory spices and the sizzle of frying chicken. Martha and I couldn't resist sneaking a few nuggets before they were even fully cooked. The crispy coating gave way to tender and juicy chicken inside, and the flavors were simply divine.

As we sat down to enjoy our homemade crispy chicken nuggets, Martha shared with me more stories of her culinary adventures. She told me about the time she had traveled to France and learned to make croissants from a master baker in Paris. She spoke of the exotic spices she had discovered on a trip to Morocco and how she had incorporated them into her dishes.

Listening to Martha's tales, I realized that cooking was more than just following a recipe - it was a journey of exploration and discovery. Each dish had a story behind it, a history that connected us to different cultures and traditions.

From that day on, I became obsessed with trying out new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients. I would spend hours in the kitchen, whisking, chopping, and sautéing, eager to create dishes that would delight and surprise my family and friends.

The crispy chicken nuggets became a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I would make for special occasions and lazy Sunday afternoons alike. And each time I made them, I would think of Martha and the joy of cooking that she had instilled in me.

Years passed, and Martha's kitchen became a distant memory. She had moved away to pursue new culinary adventures, leaving behind a legacy of delicious recipes and cherished memories. But the crispy chicken nuggets remained a constant in my life, a reminder of the day when I had first discovered the magic of cooking.

As I sit here now, penning down this story for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile at the thought of passing on the recipe for crispy chicken nuggets to them. Perhaps one day, they too will experience the same sense of excitement and wonder that I felt when I first saw that recipe in Martha's kitchen.

And so, I leave you with this simple yet delicious recipe, dear grandchildren. May it bring you joy and inspiration in your own culinary adventures, just as it did for me. Happy cooking!