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McDonald's Chicken Nuggets Copycat

Homemade McDonald's Chicken Nuggets Copycat You’ll Crave

This McDonald's Chicken Nuggets Copycat recipe redefines crispy, tender nuggets that you can make at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Freezing Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Nuggets
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Freshly ground for best texture
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Acts as a binding agent
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning
  • 1 cup Cornstarch For crispy coating
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Helps lock in moisture
  • 1/4 cup Water For batter consistency
For the Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds depth to flavors
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Imparts a smoky flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances aroma and taste
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Introduces sweetness and complexity
For Frying
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil Ideal for frying; can substitute with canola oil

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • deep skillet or pot
  • thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg yolk, and salt. Mix thoroughly until slightly sticky.
  2. Take about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture and roll it into a nugget shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Sprinkle cornstarch over each nugget, gently turning to create a light coating. Set aside.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a whole egg until achieving a thick batter.
  5. Dip each cornstarch-coated nugget into the batter, then freeze them on the baking sheet for about 1-2 hours.
  6. Heat vegetable oil to around 350°F (175°C) in a skillet. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  7. Add the frozen nuggets in batches to the hot oil, frying for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Remove the nuggets using a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 3nuggetsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 15gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Serve the nuggets immediately for best taste; they can sit out for up to 2 hours unrefrigerated. Refrigerate leftovers and reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.

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