Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
When I first made Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets for my family, I didn’t expect the delightful chaos that followed. I remember my kids scurrying around the kitchen, their excitement palpable as they helped me mix the ingredients. The kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of crispy chicken, and soon enough, the nuggets were golden brown and begging to be devoured. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together, where laughter mingles with the fragrant scent of frying and baking. This dish quickly became a staple for our family movie nights and casual get-togethers. The joy of seeing my kids enjoy a crispy treat that I made from scratch—without any gluten—was truly rewarding. Each bite is not only delicious but also a reminder of those precious moments spent together in the kitchen, creating memories that we cherish. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging recipe to whip up for your family, then Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets might just become your new favorite!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
15 mins
15 mins
Medium
330 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
20 g
Skillet, Air Fryer, Oven
Why You Need This Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
Health-Conscious Choice
One of the best things about Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets is that they cater to various dietary needs. Gluten-free options are essential for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. By opting for almond flour instead of regular flour, you’re not just making a healthier choice, but you’re also adding a delightful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Versatile Meal
These nuggets are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a snack, a main dish, or even as an appetizer at parties. Whether you pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad, they fit seamlessly into any meal. You can even customize the seasoning to make them your own!
Easy to Make
Making Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets is a straightforward process that doesn’t require culinary expertise. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious nuggets ready to impress family and friends. It’s a great recipe for cooking with kids as well, allowing them to participate in the kitchen fun.
Crispy Texture
Who doesn’t love a crispy nugget? Achieving that perfect crunch is simple with the right technique. By frying or air-frying the nuggets, you ensure that each piece is crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The combination of almond flour and the cooking method creates a texture that’s simply irresistible.
Meal Prep Friendly
If you’re someone who likes to prepare meals ahead of time, Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets are ideal. They can be made in larger batches and stored for later. Just reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick and satisfying meal anytime you want. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, making them a great addition to your meal prep routine.
Kid Approved!
Finally, let’s face it—kids love nuggets! These homemade versions are not only healthier than their store-bought counterparts, but they are also much tastier. Your children will be asking for more, and you’ll feel great knowing you’re serving them a wholesome, gluten-free option.
What You’ll Need for Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
For this recipe, we focus on ingredients that work harmoniously together to create a satisfying dish. The star of the show is undoubtedly the chicken, which offers a lean source of protein. Almond flour serves as a gluten-free alternative, providing a delightful crunch. With a blend of spices like paprika and garlic powder, we elevate the flavor to new heights. Every ingredient complements one another, making these nuggets a delectable choice for everyone!
- 1-½ pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-½”-2” pieces): This lean protein serves as the base of our nuggets, providing a delicious and filling meal.
- Salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken, these ingredients enhance the overall flavor.
- 2 eggs: Used to create a binder that helps the coating stick to the chicken, contributing to that crispy exterior.
- 1 tablespoon water: This helps to thin the egg mixture slightly, making it easier to coat the chicken.
- 1-½ cups almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to regular flour, it adds a delicious nutty flavor and crispy texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This spice adds depth and enhances the savory flavor of the nuggets.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that contributes an aromatic touch to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the nuggets.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Additional seasoning to balance flavors.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: For a mild kick of heat and flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional): A little heat if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Avocado Oil Spray or Avocado Oil (for cooking the chicken): A healthier oil choice for frying, ensuring a crisp finish.
Putting Together Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
Creating Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets is easy and fun! Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a batch of golden nuggets ready in no time. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started on this delicious journey!
- Start by patting the chicken dry using a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps the seasonings adhere better. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to infuse flavor right from the start.
- In a shallow container, whisk together the eggs along with a big pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will act as the binder for your nuggets.
- In a separate shallow container, combine almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, chili powder, and if desired, a pinch of cayenne. Whisk until evenly mixed.
- Take a piece of the seasoned chicken and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it’s evenly coated. Repeat this process until all the pieces are coated.
- In a large skillet, heat up the avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the nuggets are crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- If you want to prepare the nuggets in an air fryer, preheat it to 400ºF (if necessary). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil and place the nuggets in a single layer, allowing space between each piece. Lightly spray the top of the nuggets with additional oil.
- Air fry the nuggets for about 12 to 14 minutes, turning them at the 5 and 10-minute marks. The outside should look golden and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 165ºF.
- For oven baking, preheat your oven to 400 degrees and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush the sheet with avocado oil before placing the nuggets on it. Lightly spray or brush the nuggets with more oil.
- Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. After that, flip them over and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or until they are fully cooked through and the coating is crispy.
- Serve the Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets immediately, or if you’ve made them in advance, allow them to cool for meal prep!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cook chicken thoroughly: Always ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165ºF to prevent any foodborne illness.
- Choosing the right oil: Using avocado oil is beneficial due to its high smoke point and heart-healthy fat content.
- Batch cooking: Feel free to double or triple the recipe to freeze nuggets for quick meals later on. Simply reheat in the oven or air fryer.
- Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to customize the spice blend to your liking. Adding your favorite herbs can change the flavor profile significantly.
Recipe Variations about Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
There are plenty of fun ways to mix things up with Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets. Whether you want to tweak the flavors or serve them differently, these variations can add a new twist to the classic recipe.
- Spicy Variation: Add more cayenne or even some hot sauce to the egg mixture for those who enjoy a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Incorporate a bit of your favorite gluten-free cheese into the almond flour mixture for a cheesy flavor.
- Vegetable Nuggets: Substitute the chicken with finely chopped vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
- Serving Style: Serve your nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
- Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch of nuggets and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Serving This Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
When it comes to serving Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fun ideas:
- Ideal for Lunch or Dinner: Serve these nuggets with a light salad for a refreshing lunch or pair them with some roasted vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
- Perfect for Parties: Set up a platter with nuggets and various dipping sauces. They make a fantastic finger food option for gatherings!
- Quick Snack: Enjoy them as a quick snack between meals. They’re perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up!
- Kids’ Favorite: These nuggets are great for kids’ lunchboxes. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them a perfect option for school lunches.
- Freezing Tips: Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
- Seasonal Pairing: Pair with fresh summer vegetables, or serve with warm roasted sweet potatoes in the fall.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets are a wonderful recipe to have in your culinary repertoire. They offer a delicious, crispy, and wholesome alternative to traditional nuggets, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. I encourage you to try making them for your next family meal or gathering. You’ll love how simple and satisfying they are!
Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow container whisk together eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a separate shallow container, whisk together almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, chili powder, and optional cayenne.
- Dip chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge in the almond flour mixture, ensuring even coating.
- Heat oil over medium heat in a skillet. Cook chicken in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- For the air fryer, preheat to 400ºF and prepare the basket with avocado oil. Air fry chicken for 12 to 14 minutes, turning halfway through.
- For oven baking, preheat to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets hot, or cool for meal prep.
Notes
- Originally published: This recipe was initially named Zesty Chicken Bites and has been beloved by many!
- For kids: If serving to children, consider omitting the cayenne.
