Tired of greasy, processed chicken nuggets? Craving a healthier, homemade alternative that still delivers that satisfying crunch? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for grilled chicken nuggets offers a delicious and surprisingly easy way to enjoy this classic comfort food without sacrificing your health goals. These nuggets are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun lunchbox addition, or even a satisfying appetizer for your next gathering. Get ready to experience the best of both worlds – flavor and nutrition!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds extra tender nuggets)
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken:
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In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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In a separate shallow dish, pour the milk or buttermilk.
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In a third shallow dish, place the panko bread crumbs.
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Dredge each chicken cube in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
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Dip the floured chicken into the milk, allowing excess to drip off.
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Finally, coat the chicken in the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Grill the Nuggets:
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Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Arrange the chicken nuggets on the preheated grill, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
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Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove the grilled chicken nuggets from the grill and serve immediately. They are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Nuggets:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steaming rather than grilling, leading to soggy nuggets. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces and the heat of your grill. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Get creative with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your nuggets. Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even a simple blend of herbs de Provence would work wonderfully.
Variations:
- Spicy Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the panko bread crumbs for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Herb-Crusted Nuggets: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to the panko bread crumbs.
Nutritional Information (per nugget, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 70-80
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 3-5g
This grilled chicken nuggets recipe is a fantastic example of healthy, homemade cooking that's quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. It's a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier, more flavorful twist. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite! Enjoy!