Name: Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); Kosher salt and ground black pepper (to taste); 2 large eggs (slightly beaten); 2 teaspoons water; 1.5 cups almond flour; 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper ((optional, for extra heat)); Avocado oil spray; Your preferred gluten-free dipping sauce (for serving)

Imagine biting into a warm, crispy chicken nugget that’s juicy on the inside and perfectly seasoned throughout. If you thought that gluten-free meant giving up your favorite comfort foods, think again! These Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets are a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish without the gluten, and they’re incredibly easy to make at home. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these nuggets are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of these golden bites that are sure to impress!

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to these Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets lies in the combination of tender chicken pieces and a flavorful almond flour coating. Almond flour not only keeps the nuggets gluten-free, but it also adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices. The crispy texture comes from the egg wash and the spray of avocado oil, which helps achieve that golden-brown finish. Plus, the seasoning blend creates a taste that’s savory and satisfying, making these nuggets a hit at any meal.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you get started, here’s a handy shopping list to gather your ingredients:

1 ½ pounds of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
2 large eggs, slightly beaten
2 teaspoons water
1 ½ cups almond flour
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Avocado oil spray
Your preferred gluten-free dipping sauce for serving

Recommended Tools

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, here are some tools you will need:

Cutting board and knife: For cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Bowls: For mixing the egg wash and combining the almond flour with spices.
Baking sheet: To bake the nuggets in the oven.
Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Cooking spray: To ensure your nuggets get that perfect crispiness.
Meat thermometer: To check if the chicken is cooked through.

How to Prepare Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season them with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Toss to ensure each piece is evenly seasoned.

Step 3: Make the Egg Wash

In a medium bowl, whisk together the slightly beaten eggs and water until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the chicken piece in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Spray and Bake

Once all the chicken pieces are coated, lightly spray the nuggets with avocado oil spray. This will help them achieve a crispy texture in the oven. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 7: Serve

Remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite gluten-free dipping sauce, and watch them disappear!

If You’re Out Of…

Running low on ingredients? No problem! Here are some substitutions:

If you don’t have almond flour, you can use coconut flour, but adjust the amount as it absorbs more moisture.
Out of eggs? Flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) work as a great vegan alternative.
No avocado oil? Olive oil can be used instead for spraying the nuggets.
Missing a spice? Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand. Paprika can be swapped with smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Pro Perspective

For extra crunch, try double-coating the nuggets. After the first egg wash and flour coating, dip them in the egg wash again, then coat them with flour once more before baking.
Experiment with different spices! Adding a pinch of curry powder or mustard powder can elevate the flavor.
These nuggets can also be made in an air fryer for an even crispier finish. Just adjust the cooking time to around 10-15 minutes at 375°F.
Pair these nuggets with a variety of gluten-free sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

These Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, place cooked nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For refrigerated nuggets, simply reheat in the oven until crispy again.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier nugget, but keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook due to their higher fat content.

Are these nuggets suitable for kids?

Yes! These Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets are a great kid-friendly option. You can even involve your kids in the coating process for some fun family cooking time!

Can I make these nuggets spicy?

Definitely! You can increase the cayenne pepper or add in some hot sauce to the egg wash for an extra kick.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these nuggets?

It really depends on your personal preference! Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy barbecue sauce. Get creative and try out different options!

Healthy-ish Favorites

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Bring It Home

These Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets are not just a meal; they’re an experience that brings the family together. Whether you’re enjoying a movie night at home or hosting a party, these nuggets are sure to impress. They’re simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit any taste preference. Plus, they’re a healthy alternative to store-bought nuggets that often contain gluten and preservatives. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking—you won’t regret it!

The joy of making your own Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets lies in the ability to control the ingredients, ensuring that you and your loved ones are enjoying a dish that is both delicious and wholesome. So grab your chicken, your spices, and your favorite dipping sauce, and let’s get started!