Homemade BBQ Chip Chicken Nuggets

Looking for a fun and flavorful twist on the classic chicken nugget? Homemade BBQ Chip Chicken Nuggets are a perfect choice! These crispy, crunchy nuggets are coated in a zesty BBQ-flavored chip crust, offering a unique crunch that’s both irresistible and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd, preparing a quick dinner, or looking for a new snack, these homemade nuggets are sure to become a favorite in your household.

What sets these nuggets apart is the use of BBQ-flavored chips in the breading, which gives the chicken an extra burst of smoky, tangy flavor. Combined with the tender, juicy chicken inside, you get the ultimate balance of crispy outside and succulent inside in every bite. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and they’re ready to be devoured.

Get ready to experience chicken nuggets like never before with this simple yet flavorful recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Crunchy

The BBQ chips coating gives the nuggets a satisfying, crispy crunch that’s packed with flavor, taking your typical chicken nugget to the next level.

2. Flavorful Twist

With BBQ chips in the breading, these nuggets have a smoky, tangy flavor that’s both unique and delicious. It’s a fun twist on the classic!

3. Easy to Make

This recipe comes together in no time. With minimal prep and ingredients, you can enjoy homemade chicken nuggets without the hassle.

4. Customizable Coating

Feel free to experiment with different flavors of chips to change the profile of the nuggets. You can use spicy chips, sour cream and onion chips, or even plain chips with added seasonings.

5. Kid-Friendly

These chicken nuggets are a great way to get kids excited about eating chicken. They’ll love the crispy texture and the savory BBQ chip flavor.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• BBQ-flavored chips (crushed)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Paprika (optional)
• Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Chip Nuggets: Use spicy BBQ chips or add some cayenne pepper to the flour for a fiery kick.
• Baked Version: Skip the frying and bake the nuggets in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
• Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, add grated parmesan cheese to the crushed BBQ chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sweet BBQ Nugget: Try using sweet BBQ chips or a mix of honey barbecue chips to balance the smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the breading sticks properly.

Step 2: Crush the BBQ Chips

Place the BBQ chips in a large resealable bag and crush them into small pieces using a rolling pin or your hands. You want a fine, crumbly texture, but some larger pieces are okay for added crunch.

Step 3: Set Up Your Dipping Stations

In one bowl, place the flour, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, etc.). In another bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. In a third bowl, place the crushed BBQ chips.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, followed by the crushed BBQ chips, pressing lightly to ensure the chips adhere to the chicken.

Step 5: Fry the Nuggets

Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the pan. Fry the chicken nuggets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once the nuggets are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the BBQ chip chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the nuggets in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure the nuggets cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
• Make Sure the Oil is Hot: Before adding the chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough to fry. You can test this by dropping a small piece of chicken into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Add Extra Seasoning: Feel free to add extra seasoning to the flour or the BBQ chips to make the nuggets even more flavorful. Try adding onion powder, chili powder, or a little extra garlic.

How to Serve

Serve these homemade BBQ chip chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Pair them with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad for a complete meal. Kids will love them as a party snack, and they’re great for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat the nuggets in the oven for a few minutes rather than microwaving them.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked nuggets. After coating them in the BBQ chip mixture, place the nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the nuggets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping them to ensure they crisp up evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated nuggets for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

2. Can I use any type of chips for the coating?

You can use any flavor of chips you like, but BBQ chips work best for this recipe as they provide the perfect balance of smoky and tangy flavors.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they might take a bit longer to cook. Be sure to check the internal temperature for doneness (165°F/74°C).

4. Can I make these nuggets spicy?

Absolutely! Use spicy BBQ chips, add cayenne pepper to the flour, or serve with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo.

5. How do I keep the nuggets crispy after cooking?

For the crispiest nuggets, place them on a wire rack after cooking so air can circulate around them. This helps maintain their crunch.

6. Can I freeze the cooked nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze cooked nuggets. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven for best results.

7. Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can use gluten-free chips and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

8. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can use a deep fryer. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

9. How can I make these nuggets healthier?

For a healthier option, try baking the nuggets instead of frying them. You can also use air frying to reduce the amount of oil used.

10. Can I add vegetables to the nuggets?

While the focus is on the chicken, you can add finely chopped spinach or other greens to the breading mixture for a nutritious boost.

Conclusion

Homemade BBQ Chip Chicken Nuggets are the ultimate crispy, flavorful snack or meal that everyone will love. The BBQ chip coating adds a smoky, tangy twist to traditional chicken nuggets, making them a fun and exciting choice for family dinners, parties, or just a delicious snack. Whether fried or baked, these nuggets are simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Try them today, and enjoy the perfect combination of tender chicken and irresistible BBQ chip crunch!

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