Sometimes the simplest of recipes carries the heartiest touch of home. Chicken nuggets might seem like a modern convenience, but they’ve got roots in the practical Midwest kitchen where nothing went to waste and every cut of chicken had its day. This slow cooker version takes a contemporary twist on an old favorite, giving it that tender, slow-cooked love that could only come from a kitchen like mine. Handing the reins over to the slow cooker means more time spent with family and less fussing in the kitchen, all while the comforting scent of cooking chicken fills your home.
Now darlings, no plate of chicken nuggets is complete without some classic fixings. Serve these tender bites alongside a helping of buttery mashed potatoes or a scoop of creamy macaroni and cheese. Don’t forget a bowl of coleslaw or a crisp garden salad for that perfect crunch. And for dipping, bowls of homemade honey mustard or barbecue sauce will bring smiles all around.
Slow Cooker Chicken NuggetsServings: 6
Ingredients- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray (for coating the slow cooker)
Directions1. Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will lay the foundation for flavorful nuggets that'll remind you of Sunday dinners at Grandma's.
2. Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and mix the bread crumbs with Parmesan cheese in a third. This is your breading station that’ll give those nuggets their golden coat.
3. Dip each chicken piece first in the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Take your time and make sure each piece is lovingly coated.
4. Generously coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, layer the nuggets inside. Space them out as best you can.
5. Cover and cook on high for about 2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is slightly crispy. Remember, slow cookers vary like the Midwest weather, so check in on these nuggets to make sure they’re just right.
6. Once done, transfer those golden beauties to a serving platter and watch 'em disappear quicker than fireflies at dusk.
Variations & Tips- For a gluten-free twist, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour and use crispy rice crumbs instead of bread crumbs.
- To work in some extra flavor, add a teaspoon of paprika or dried thyme to the breadcrumb mix.
- If you prefer a crunchier nugget, you could quickly brown them in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
- Remember, these nuggets hold the warmth of home best when shared. Serve them up for the little ones after a day of play, or even at your next potluck. They’re sure to conjure up stories, laughter, and a deep sense of togetherness.
