Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Ground Chicken

Name: Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 lb ground chicken; 3/4 cup Cheese (any kind); 1 1/2 Cup Italian Seasoned Panko Crumbs; 1 large Egg

Jessica Baker

Update : January 17, 2026

Homemade chicken nuggets with ground chicken served on a plate

why make this recipe

Homemade Chicken Nuggets are a favorite for many people, especially kids. They are easy to make with just a few ingredients, and they’re healthier than the store-bought ones. You can customize them with your favorite cheese and seasonings. Plus, they are fun to make and even more fun to eat!

how to make Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Making homemade chicken nuggets is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal or snack everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

1/2 lb ground chicken (Makes 9 Chicken Nuggets)
3/4 cup Cheese (Use any kind you like)
1 1/2 Cup Italian Seasoned Panko Crumbs
1 large Egg

Directions

In a medium bowl or large bowl, add the ground chicken, egg, and cheese. Mix everything together until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
Form your chicken nuggets. You can make them any size you prefer, but aiming for a size similar to store-bought nuggets works well.
Once you have shaped your nuggets, coat them in the Panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to cover both sides. The breadcrumbs will stick easily because the chicken mixture is very moist. If you want to add some extra flavor, sprinkle a little garlic salt on the nuggets at this stage.
For baking chicken nuggets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They are ready when they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray. Place the nuggets in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for about 18 minutes, turning them halfway to achieve a golden brown crust.

how to serve Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Serve your homemade chicken nuggets hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauces. Some popular choices include ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. You can also pair them with a side salad or some veggies for a complete meal.

how to store Homemade Chicken Nuggets

If you have leftover chicken nuggets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or air fry them for a few minutes until heated through.

tips to make Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Make sure your chicken mixture is very moist for better breadcrumb adherence.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for different flavors.
Add herbs and spices to the chicken mixture for extra flavor, like paprika or oregano.

variation

You can change the recipe by using ground turkey instead of chicken. You can also try different flavored breadcrumbs or add spices to the mixture for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I freeze these chicken nuggets?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked nuggets. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer them to an airtight container or bag. Cook them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them!

How can I make them spicier?
You can add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for an extra kick!

What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs instead, but the texture may be a bit different. Panko gives a crunchier finish.