My family couldn't stop raving about how delicious these bites were. I'll prepare a larger batch next time.

Chicken nuggets are a beloved staple in American cuisine, cherished for their crispy exterior and tender interior. Originating from the fast-food industry in the mid-20th century, these bite-sized delights have become a household favorite, especially among children. Making them at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Pairing them with a homemade honey mustard sauce adds a sweet and tangy twist that elevates the dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner.

Crispy chicken nuggets pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal, or opt for classic comfort foods like French fries or coleslaw. For a more adventurous twist, try them with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad. The honey mustard sauce complements these sides beautifully, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.

Servings: 4

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it's well-coated.

Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Fry the chicken nuggets in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.

Transfer the cooked nuggets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

For the honey mustard sauce, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl.

Serve the chicken nuggets hot with the honey mustard sauce on the side.

For a healthier version, try baking the chicken nuggets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or using Italian seasoning for a herby flavor. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. The honey mustard sauce can be adjusted to taste by adding more honey for sweetness or more mustard for a tangier flavor.