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BBQ Chicken Nuggets Recipe

BBQ Chicken Nuggets Recipe


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4.5 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 18-23 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Description

Sizzling 20-minute skillet bbq chicken nuggets bring restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen without any fuss. Crispy, tangy bites come together faster than takeout, making dinner a breeze for hungry families craving something quick and delicious.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 18 oz skinless chicken breast
  • ½ cup bbq sauce
  • ⅓ cup whole grain breadcrumbs

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Seasoning:

  • ½ teaspoon worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Transform 18 oz. chicken breast into 1-inch uniform cubes using a sharp knife for even cooking.
  2. Combine ½ cup bbq sauce, ⅓ cup breadcrumbs, and ½ teaspoon worcestershire sauce in a mixing bowl, thoroughly coating each chicken piece.
  3. Pour 4 tablespoons olive oil into a large skillet, heating to medium-high temperature around 375°F until the surface shimmers slightly.
  4. Carefully arrange chicken nuggets in a single layer without overcrowding, allowing each piece to sear undisturbed for exactly 3 minutes.
  5. Gently flip nuggets using tongs, continuing to cook for an additional 7-10 minutes at 350°F, rotating periodically to ensure all sides turn golden brown.
  6. Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer, confirming complete and safe cooking throughout each nugget.
  7. Remove nuggets from skillet, letting them rest on a paper towel-lined plate for 2 minutes to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.

Notes

  • Dice chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the nuggets.
  • Let the chicken marinate in the BBQ seasoning for 15-20 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor absorption and tenderness.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for the best heat distribution and crispiest exterior on your nuggets.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam the chicken instead of creating a nice golden crust, so cook in batches if needed.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13-18 minutes
  • Category: One-Skillet
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3
  • Calories: 383 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 458 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 81 mg