If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances crispy goodness with a sweet and spicy kick, look no further than Hot Honey Chicken Nuggets! These mouthwatering bites are not just your average chicken nuggets; they’re a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to elevate your nugget game and discover the secret to a sensational meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup hot honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by cutting chicken breast into uniform bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are approximately 1-
- 5 inches in size for even cooking.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: first with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, second with beaten eggs, and third with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken piece first in seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C), ensuring enough oil to cover chicken pieces halfway.
- Carefully place breaded chicken nuggets into hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove nuggets using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- In a small saucepan, warm the hot honey slightly to make it more fluid for drizzling.
- Arrange cooked nuggets on a serving plate and generously drizzle with warm hot honey, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, optionally garnishing with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can cut the chicken and set up your breading station in advance. Just keep everything covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry.
- Consistent Sizes: Make sure your chicken pieces are uniform in size (about 1-
- 5 inches) to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Breading Technique: When breading the chicken, be sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the nuggets gently. This helps them adhere better and creates a thicker, crunchier coating.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb excess oil; too high, and it will burn before cooking through. Aim for 375°F (190°C) for the best results.
- Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding the pan. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures each nugget gets golden brown and crispy.
- Hot Honey Magic: Warm the hot honey slightly before drizzling to achieve a smoother consistency that coats the nuggets beautifully.
- Garnish for Flair: Consider garnishing your dish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness that complements the sweet and spicy flavors.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve your Hot Honey Chicken Nuggets with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, enhancing the flavor profile and providing a creamy contrast to the heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 160mg
