Craving a piece of southern-spiced heaven? Nashville hot chicken nuggets are your taste buds’ new best friend. With their fiery blend of spices and crispy coating, these nuggets bring the beloved Nashville heat right to your own kitchen. Ready to spice up your meal plan? Let’s dive in!
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Growing up, family gatherings were never complete without a towering platter of Spicy Chicken goodness. Each nibble, an explosion of flavor; every bite, a nostalgic reminder of laughter-filled afternoons. These nuggets, inspired by those cherished times, are not just a meal; they’re a heartfelt homage to cherished moments and unforgettable flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this recipe is for you! The invigorating blend of spices will have your taste buds dancing from the first bite. They’re bite-sized, making them perfect for both hefty meals and light snacks. Plus, they’re an excellent way to spice up a get-together, seamlessly doubling as both an appetizer and a main dish.
Ingredients Notes
To ensure every bite oozes with flavor, opt for fresh chicken breast cubes. The Spice Mix, featuring cayenne pepper and paprika, can be sourced from your local grocery or a specialty store for the freshest zing. If you’re out of buttermilk, try substituting with yogurt mixed with a dash of milk—it’ll keep your nuggets tender and juicy.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer even cooking, ensure they are uniform in size.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix your buttermilk, eggs, and a hint of hot sauce. This will be your flavorful marinade. Allow the chicken pieces to soak for at least an hour to absorb all that spicy goodness.
Step 3
Combine your flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt in a separate bowl. This dry mix will form the crispy coating for your nuggets.
Step 4
Heat oil in a deep pan to about 350°F. Dredge each soaked chicken piece in the spiced flour mixture, then fry until golden brown and crispy. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan.
Step 5
As your nuggets finish frying, drain them on a paper towel. For extra heat, drizzle with additional hot sauce or use a spicy dip.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, let the nuggets cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in a preheated oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re leaning towards a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your palate. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free blend or even cornstarch. Vegetarians can swap the chicken for cauliflower florets, following the same steps for a plant-based delight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these nuggets at your next Game Day party with an array of dips—ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mayo. They’re ideal for picnic baskets or kids’ lunchboxes as well. Pair them with a light coleslaw or a crisp green salad to complement the fiery flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these nuggets in an Air Fryer? Yes, definitely! Arrange your nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re crispy and cooked through.
Can I prepare the nuggets in advance? Absolutely. Prepare up to the frying stage, then refrigerate them for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply proceed with frying or bake in a preheated oven to finish cooking and achieve that crispy texture.
What’s the secret to the perfect crispy texture? The right balance of wet and dry coatings is essential. Ensure your chicken pieces are well marinated and the flour mixture is evenly coated. Fry in a preheated pan to lock in the juices and develop that satisfying crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 lbs chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice from about 4 lemons
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
Breading
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
Dill Yogurt Dip
- 1 cup greek yogurt full-fat
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
Marination Process
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
Breading and Cooking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and black pepper.
- Dredge marinated chicken pieces in breadcrumb mixture, pressing down for an even coating.
- Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Dip Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and honey. Mix until smooth.
Serving
- Serve chicken bites immediately with dill yogurt dip on the side.
