This extraordinary chicken breast recipe transforms ordinary chicken into golden, crispy nuggets that are incredibly juicy and flavorful. The secret lies in the special batter marinade that creates a restaurant-quality coating while keeping the chicken breast amazingly tender and moist. These homemade chicken nuggets are so delicious that they rival any fast-food chain, and your family will be asking for them every day.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1kg (2.2 lbs) chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning chicken)
For the Special Batter:
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour (approximately)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
- Paper towels for draining
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into uniform pieces, approximately 5-6 cm (2-2.5 inches) in thickness. The key is to make them thin and even so they cook uniformly and remain tender. Avoid making them too thick, as this will result in uneven cooking.
Cut all four chicken breasts into these manageable pieces. You should end up with a large bowl of evenly sized chicken pieces that will cook consistently. Season the cut chicken lightly with salt, using about 1 teaspoon distributed evenly over all the pieces.
Creating the Special Batter
In a large mixing bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them lightly until just combined. Add the mayonnaise to the beaten eggs. While sour cream can be substituted, mayonnaise creates a richer, more flavorful batter that contributes to the crispy exterior.
Mix the eggs and mayonnaise together until smooth and well incorporated. This combination creates the base for our special batter that will make the chicken incredibly tender and juicy.
Adding the Seasonings
Add the Italian herbs, paprika, and dried garlic powder to the egg and mayonnaise mixture. These dry seasonings are crucial for creating the aromatic, flavorful coating that makes this recipe special. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Add the salt and mix well. The seasoning at this stage penetrates the batter and flavors the chicken from the outside in.
Incorporating the Flour
Begin adding flour one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition. Start with 3 tablespoons and mix well. The consistency should not be too thick or too thin. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons gradually, checking the consistency as you go.
The perfect batter consistency should coat a spoon but still flow easily. It should be thick enough to cling to the chicken pieces but not so thick that it becomes paste-like. Adjust with small amounts of flour if needed.
Marinating the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the batter, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Mix gently but thoroughly, making sure every piece of chicken is covered with the flavorful batter.
Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate for several hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. The longer marination time allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and results in more tender, flavorful meat.
Preparing for Frying
Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep pan or deep fryer to 175°C (350°F). You need enough oil to partially submerge the chicken pieces. While the oil is heating, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and give it one final gentle stir.
Place paper towels on a large plate for draining the cooked chicken. Have your serving plate ready as these nuggets are best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Frying the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook on medium heat to ensure the chicken cooks through while developing a golden crust.
Fry each side for approximately 1.5 minutes before turning. The key is frequent turning – flip the pieces every 1.5 minutes to ensure even browning and prevent burning. Continue this process for about 6-8 minutes total, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
Final Cooking and Serving
Remove the chicken pieces with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) for food safety.
Repeat the frying process with remaining batches. The entire kilogram of chicken should take about 15-20 minutes to cook completely.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy. These nuggets are delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutritional Information and Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 1-8 hours
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (minimum)
Servings: 6-8 people
Per Serving (approximate):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Batter Alternatives
Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor and lighter texture. For dairy-free options, use vegan mayonnaise or a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice.
Seasoning Variations
Experiment with different spice blends such as Cajun seasoning, Chinese five-spice, or Mediterranean herbs. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.
Flour Modifications
Substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with cornstarch for an extra crispy coating. For gluten-free versions, use rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.
Cooking Method Alternatives
For a healthier version, these nuggets can be baked at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While not as crispy as fried, they’re still delicious and significantly lower in fat.
Flavor Enhancements
Add grated parmesan cheese to the batter for extra richness, or include finely minced fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a gourmet touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the marinating time so important? The marinating time allows the acidic components in the mayonnaise to tenderize the chicken while the seasonings penetrate the meat. This results in incredibly juicy chicken that’s flavorful throughout, not just on the surface.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For meal prep, you can even fry the nuggets completely, then reheat them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
What’s the best oil temperature for frying? Maintain the oil temperature at 175°C (350°F). If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should be golden brown on all sides and feel firm when pressed gently. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). If you’re unsure, cut into the thickest piece to check that it’s white throughout with no pink areas.
Can I freeze these chicken nuggets? Cooked nuggets can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to freezer bags. Reheat from frozen in a 200°C (400°F) oven for 12-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
This special batter recipe creates chicken nuggets that are crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside. The combination of mayonnaise, eggs, and carefully selected seasonings creates a coating that rivals any restaurant while being simple enough to make at home. Your family will be amazed at how this simple chicken breast transforms into something so extraordinarily delicious.