Chicken McNuggets from McDonald's feature tender, bite-sized pieces of seasoned white meat chicken, coated in a crispy golden batter, delivering a juicy and crunchy snack perfect for dipping.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking tray
- Cooling rack
- Food thermometer
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Ensure the chicken breast is cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and a consistent texture. Use cold water and milk when preparing the batter to create a light, crispy coating that clings well to the chicken. Measuring ingredients accurately, especially the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder, is essential for achieving the signature crunch. Maintaining the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF using a food thermometer helps prevent greasy nuggets and ensures a golden exterior. Your homemade Chicken McNuggets from McDonald's copycat recipe will be perfectly juicy inside with a satisfyingly crunchy coating.
Instructions
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces using a chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a mixing bowl.
- Set up a dredging station with flour in one bowl.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, baking powder, eggs, cold water, and milk to make the batter.
- Preheat the deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C); check with a food thermometer.
- Dredge seasoned chicken pieces in flour.
- Dip floured chicken pieces into the batter, coating evenly.
- Carefully lower battered chicken into hot oil with tongs or a slotted spoon.
- Fry chicken nuggets in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 3–4 minutes); check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove nuggets with a slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack set over a baking tray to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces.
Substitution
Chicken McNuggets from McDonald's copycat recipes use tender white meat coated in a crispy golden batter that mimics the original's juicy texture and crunch. If you don't have cornstarch, potato starch or rice flour can be effective substitutes that maintain the crispiness of the coating. When frying, ensure the oil temperature stays around 350degF (175degC) for even cooking without sogginess or burning. Use a food thermometer to confirm the internal chicken temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. Your choice of seasoning can be adjusted to taste, allowing for variations like smoked paprika or cayenne for added flavor.
Tips
Ensure your deep fryer oil stays at a consistent 350degF (175degC) to achieve a crispy, golden exterior without sogginess or undercooking. Properly dredge each chicken piece first in flour, then coat evenly with the batter to create the iconic crunchy texture. Use a food thermometer to confirm the internal temperature of chicken nuggets reaches at least 165degF (74degC) to guarantee safety and juiciness. Rest cooked nuggets on a cooling rack over a baking tray to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness before serving.
Nutritions
Chicken McNuggets provide a source of lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and maintenance. The golden, crispy batter contains carbohydrates from flour and cornstarch, offering quick energy for your body. Each serving includes a moderate amount of fat from the vegetable oil used in frying, contributing to overall calorie intake. Keep in mind that the frying process increases the calorie density, so enjoy your nuggets in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken McNuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator at or below 40degF (4degC) to maintain freshness for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place nuggets on a baking tray and warm in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause sogginess, and make sure your nuggets reach an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before consuming.
Variation or Alternatives
You can vary the coating by substituting panko breadcrumbs for the cornstarch to achieve a crunchier texture. Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk or seasoned yogurt for at least 30 minutes before dredging to enhance tenderness and flavor. For an alternative cooking method, bake the nuggets on a greased baking tray at 400degF (200degC) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, to reduce oil usage while still achieving a crispy exterior. Using a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix can add a subtle smoky heat to your nuggets.
Allergies
Chicken McNuggets contain common allergens such as eggs and milk, both present in the batter mixture, which may trigger reactions in individuals with egg or dairy allergies. The use of wheat flour introduces gluten, posing a risk for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Your sensitivity to any of these ingredients should be considered before consumption to avoid allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Chicken McNuggets from McDonald's are beloved for their crispy golden exterior and juicy, tender chicken inside, delivering a consistent and satisfying bite every time. The distinctive blend of spices used in the batter creates a memorable flavor profile that appeals to a wide audience looking for quick, delicious comfort food. Creating a copycat recipe allows you to recreate that iconic taste at home, customizing the seasoning and dip options to suit your personal preferences. Your ability to enjoy this classic snack without leaving your kitchen makes experimenting with a homemade version both fun and worthwhile.