Print

Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

Print Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Nuggets are the ultimate bite-sized snack for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors. These crispy, golden nuggets are coated in a flavorful batter, fried or baked to perfection, and then tossed in a tangy, buttery Buffalo sauce. Whether served as an appetizer, game-day snack, or quick meal, these nuggets pack a punch with every bite. Pair them with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for the perfect balance of heat and coolness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • ½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a slight sweetness)
  • Oil for frying (if frying)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed, chicken breasts make these nuggets juicy and tender.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These create an extra-crispy coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Hot Sauce: The base of Buffalo sauce, giving the nuggets their signature spicy kick.
  • Butter: Blended with hot sauce for a rich, smooth coating that sticks perfectly to the nuggets.
  • Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken while also binding the breading for a better crunch.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Nuggets:

  1. Prep the Coating Stations: In one bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using). In a second bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
  3. Prepare for Cooking: If frying, heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cook the Nuggets:

  1. Fry or Bake:
    • Frying Method: Fry the nuggets in batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
    • Baking Method: Place nuggets on the baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
    • Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Toss in Buffalo Sauce:

  1. Make the Buffalo Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, then whisk in the hot sauce and honey (if using). Remove from heat.
  2. Coat the Nuggets: Place the cooked nuggets in a

Nutrition

Find it online: https://herbites.com/buffalo-chicken-nuggets/