Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets feature tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a bold, crispy seasoned breading, delivering a perfect combination of fiery flavor and crunchy texture.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Sheet tray/wire rack
- Meat thermometer
- Slotted spoon or skimmer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tray or platter for serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures tender, juicy bites that absorb the buttermilk marinade and hot sauce evenly for maximum flavor. Combining both all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the breading creates an extra crispy coating that holds the bold spices well. Measuring spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes accurately is essential to achieve the authentic fiery heat reminiscent of Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets. Your frying oil must be heated to the right temperature to cook the nuggets through without becoming greasy or soggy. These copycat nuggets deliver the same bold seasoning and crunchy texture that make Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets a spicy fan favorite.
Instructions
- Cut chicken breast into nugget-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Add chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, kosher salt, white pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Preheat oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken pieces from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge marinated chicken pieces in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
- Place coated chicken on a sheet tray or wire rack.
- Using tongs, carefully place chicken pieces in hot oil in batches.
- Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning if necessary, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- Remove nuggets with a slotted spoon or skimmer onto a wire rack or paper towels to drain.
- Serve hot on a tray or platter.
Substitution
Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets copycat recipe replicates the iconic crunchy and spicy flavor that fans love, using a well-seasoned breading and tender chicken. You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for breasts to add extra juiciness and richness. If buttermilk is unavailable, a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar works well as a marinade to tenderize the chicken. For frying, maintaining oil temperature between 350degF to 375degF ensures a crispy exterior without sogginess. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165degF to guarantee safe cooking.
Tips
Make sure to marinate your chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor absorption. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. When dredging, press the flour mixture firmly to create a thick, crispy crust that holds during frying. Be cautious with oil temperature, keeping it steady at 350degF (175degC) to avoid greasy nuggets and ensure even cooking.
Nutritions
Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets provide a rich source of protein, primarily from the boneless, skinless chicken breast, which supports muscle repair and growth. The buttermilk and egg marinade adds moisture and some additional nutrients, such as calcium and vitamins, while the spicy breading combines paprika, cayenne pepper, and other spices that offer antioxidants and metabolism-boosting compounds. Frying in vegetable oil introduces fats, contributing to the calorie count, so moderating portion size is important for maintaining balanced nutrition. When preparing your own, monitoring the internal temperature to 165degF ensures the nuggets are safely cooked while preserving their juicy texture.
Storage
To store Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate your nuggets within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth, and consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container, and reheat them thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
To vary the flavor profile of your spicy chicken nuggets, substitute buttermilk with Greek yogurt for a tangier marinade that tenderizes the chicken effectively. You can replace cayenne pepper with smoked paprika to add a subtle, smoky heat without overwhelming spice, enhancing complexity. Instead of deep frying, try oven baking at 400degF (200degC) on a wire rack for 20-25 minutes to reduce oil absorption while maintaining crispiness, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC). Consider tossing the cooked nuggets in a homemade buffalo sauce for an extra layer of spicy, tangy flavor that complements the seasoned breading.
Allergies
Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets contain common allergens such as eggs and wheat from all-purpose flour, which can trigger reactions in individuals with egg or gluten allergies. The seasoning blend includes spices like garlic and onion powder that might cause sensitivity in some people with spice or food intolerances. You should review ingredient details carefully if you have known food allergies or sensitivities before consuming this product.
Why this recipe?
Wendy's Spicy Chicken Nuggets are beloved for their perfect balance of fiery seasoning and crispy texture, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. These nuggets feature a unique blend of spices that elevates the classic chicken nugget experience, appealing to those who crave a bold and zesty snack. Creating a copycat version of this menu item allows you to customize the heat level and ingredients while saving money and enjoying a fresh, homemade taste. Your homemade spicy nuggets can capture the addictive crunch and spice that fans repeatedly seek at Wendy's.