Cheese Chicken Nuggets – Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible! 🧀🍗

If you love classic chicken nuggets, wait until you try this homemade Cheese Chicken Nugget recipe! Each bite delivers a crispy golden crust, juicy seasoned chicken, and a melty mozzarella center—pure nugget perfection. Whether you’re making them for kids, game night, or a satisfying snack, these cheesy nuggets are quick, easy, and way better than store-bought!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside – The perfect bite!
✔️ Simple & Quick – Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep.
✔️ Customizable – Air fry, bake, or fry to suit your preference.

Ingredients for Cheese Chicken Nuggets

For the Chicken Mixture:

500g ground chicken thighs (for extra juiciness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups shredded mozzarella (or block cheese for a richer texture)

For Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs

For Frying:

1 cup canola oil (or any vegetable oil)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1️⃣ In a bowl, mix ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
2️⃣ Take 1-1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Flatten slightly.
3️⃣ Place a small amount of mozzarella in the center, then roll it back into a ball, sealing the cheese inside. Set aside and repeat.

2. Coat the Nuggets

1️⃣ In separate bowls, set up flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs.
2️⃣ Dip each chicken ball first in flour, then in egg, and finally roll it in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

3. Fry to Perfection

1️⃣ Heat canola oil in a deep pot or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Once the oil is hot, gently add the nuggets and fry until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
3️⃣ Drain on a paper towel and serve immediately with your favorite sauces!

Baking & Air Frying Instructions

Prefer a healthier version? No problem!

➡️ Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place nuggets on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
➡️ Air Fry: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place nuggets in a single layer, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.

What to Serve with Cheese Chicken Nuggets?

Classic French Fries 🍟
Mac & Cheese 🧀
Fresh Veggies & Dip 🥕🥒
Homemade Coleslaw 🥬
Dipping Sauces: Mayo-Ketchup, BBQ, Honey Mustard

💡 Feeling adventurous? Use these nuggets in sandwiches, wraps, or salads!

Storage & Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked nuggets for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Air fry or bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

🔹 Why is my chicken nugget dry?
Overcooking or using chicken breast can make nuggets dry. Stick to chicken thighs for juicier results!

🔹 Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Try cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a fun twist.

🔹 Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and freeze the nuggets, then fry or bake when ready to eat.

These Cheese Chicken Nuggets are quick, delicious, and packed with flavor. Try them today, and let me know how they turn out! 😋✨