Go Back

Crispy Chicken Nuggets with Tangy Dipping Sauce

Make golden Crispy Chicken Nuggets with juicy chicken breast and crunchy panko coating.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course / Appetizer
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

For the Tangy Dipping Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ¼ cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Chicken Nuggets

  • pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt divided
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups cold water
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs crushed
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 3 large egg whites
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, barbecue sauce, yellow mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Cut the chicken breasts into approximately 2-inch pieces.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine cold water, 1½ tablespoons kosher salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until dissolved.
  • Add chicken pieces to the brine. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • In a separate bowl, combine flour, crushed panko breadcrumbs, remaining salt, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and baking soda.
  • In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until foamy.
  • Remove chicken from the brine and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  • Heat enough vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy skillet to reach about 1 inch deep. Heat oil to 350°F (180°C).
  • Dip each chicken piece into the egg whites, coating completely.
  • Transfer to the breadcrumb mixture and coat evenly.
  • Carefully place coated chicken into the hot oil in batches.
  • Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes total.
  • Transfer cooked nuggets to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  • Repeat with remaining chicken.
  • Serve the Crispy Chicken Nuggets hot with the tangy dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Serve with fries, coleslaw, potato wedges, or a fresh green salad.
  • The dipping sauce can be prepared up to one week in advance.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey.
  • For a smoky flavor, use a smoky barbecue sauce variety.