SUPER TASTY CHICKEN NUGGEST

 Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt if you prefer)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular, adds color and a mild kick)
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds a cheesy layer of flavor)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken chunks into the bowl, making sure they are well-coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours. The buttermilk will tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavors!

Prepare the Breading:

3. In one bowl, mix the flour with a little salt and pepper.
4. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese if using (this adds a delicious cheesy crunch).
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade. Dredge each piece first in the flour (shake off any excess), then dip back into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Press the crumbs firmly onto the chicken for maximum crunch.

Cooking the Nuggets:

6. Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you drop a breadcrumb in.
7. Carefully lower the nuggets into the oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should be cooked through and juicy inside (internal temp of 165°F or 75°C).
8. Remove the nuggets with a slotted spoon and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.

Optional: Baking Method (for a healthier option):

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve your nuggets hot with a selection of dips like ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a tangy ranch dressing.
• Add a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even some coleslaw for the ultimate meal.

Enjoy your super tasty chicken nuggets—crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor in every bite.