Skip the store-bought varieties and make the most delicious Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets easily at home.
Today, convenience is a factor for many people. I get it. I, too, looked for shortcuts when my kids were growing up. Okay, let’s face it, I still look for shortcuts today, since I’m only cooking for myself most of the time. Take, for example, gluten-free chicken nuggets. With the abundance of gluten-free brands and products available today, mealtime is made easier. However, easier isn’t always better, as any savvy label reader can tell you.
On a recent trip to the grocery store, I decided to read the labels of all the GF nuggets and tenders there were. Now, so you know, I typically make my own at home because I enjoy experimenting with different spices and seasonings. However, sometimes a BOGO (buy one, get one free) sale is too good to pass up. It had been a long time since I read the nugget labels, and I will say I was astonished at how many of them contained added sugar. That’s not something I want in my chicken nuggets.
And, with this recipe, I don’t have to worry about ingredients like flax meal, xanthan gum, cornstarch, and unwanted fillers. Many of these products take about 25 to 30 minutes to bake, which is about the same amount of time it takes to make them from scratch without those useless ingredients. Besides, when you make these nuggets, they are bursting with savory flavor thanks to the garlic and onion powders, Italian seasoning, paprika, and chili powder. You can also adjust the seasonings to your tastes. I like to use smoked paprika (a hot variety can replace cayenne pepper for those who like their nuggets a bit on the spicy side).
These nuggets don’t need oil for frying. A simple spray of avocado oil (or olive oil spray) is all they need. You can also make these nuggets in your air fryer set to 390°F. Cook them in an oil-sprayed basket for six minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If convenience is your thing, meal prep a few pounds of these nuggets at one time and freeze them for future quick and easy meals.
Take your gluten-free chicken nuggets international
To make gluten-free chicken nuggets suitable for various cuisines, adjust the seasonings slightly to suit different tastes. For an Italian meal, omit the chili powder and add half a teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. You can also add some grated Parmesan for a cheesier taste. Italian-style chicken nuggets are great served with fries or over a bowl of pasta covered in tomato sauce.
Don’t let your creativity end there. Go south of the border by swapping cumin for the Italian seasoning. Increase the chili powder to a teaspoon and add a tablespoon of lime zest to bring the flavors to life. Create five-spice Asian chicken nuggets using a teaspoon of each of the following seasonings: Chinese five-spice, ground coriander, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Let your culinary imagination guide you as you create exciting new flavor combinations. You can also try this recipe for Crispy Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders for another delicious option.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow leftover gluten-free chicken nuggets to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold or warmed in the oven, air fryer, or microwave. You can also freeze chilled nuggets in freezer-safe containers or zippered bags for up to 3 months. Defrost them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving suggestions
There are countless ways to serve your gluten-free chicken nuggets, so let’s explore a few of them. You can go the traditional route with Homemade French Fries, Texas BBQ Sauce, and this Southern Coleslaw Recipe. Or, you can take your meal to the next level with Butternut Squash Fries, Mexican Coleslaw, and this White BBQ Sauce Recipe. Make some Gluten-Free Lemon Bars or Almond Flour Sugar Cookies and serve them with Fruit Kabobs for dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons water
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
- Avocado oil spray
- Preferred gluten-free dipping sauce for serving
Instructions
- Pat the chicken pieces dry and season with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, water, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, combine the almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Dip each chicken piece first in the egg mixture, then dredge in the almond flour mixture until well coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with avocado oil spray. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding and cook the chicken nuggets for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked nuggets to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite healthy dipping sauce.
- For extra crispiness, place the cooked nuggets in a preheated 400°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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