3-ingredient chicken nuggets are a quick, simple, and delicious meal your kids will love. All you need are chicken, breadcrumbs, and egg to make crispy, golden nuggets that are perfect for toddlers and picky eaters. These nuggets are easy to prepare, making them an ideal option for busy parents looking for a quick snack or meal.
Whether you’re a working parent, a stay-at-home mom, or feeding a toddler, this recipe can be customized to suit your needs. You can try variations like using ground chicken, skipping the breadcrumbs for a softer nugget, or even making keto-friendly nuggets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy 3-ingredient chicken nugget recipe is perfect for your little ones and busy days. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Simple and Fast: With just 3 ingredients—chicken, breadcrumbs, and an egg—this recipe is super easy to make.
- Soft and Chewy for Toddlers: The chicken is soft and easy for little ones to eat. Perfect for toddlers who are just learning to chew.
- Quick to Cook: You can have these nuggets ready in 20 minutes in the oven or air fryer.
- Customizable: You can use ground chicken or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Kids Love It: These nuggets are crunchy and tasty, and kids love dipping them in ketchup or their favorite sauce.
- Great for Busy Parents: It’s a quick, simple meal that fits into any busy schedule.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
To make these super simple chicken nuggets, you only need 3 ingredients:
- 1 pound of chicken breast (you can also use chicken thighs)
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (you can use regular or whole wheat)
- 1 large egg
Substitutions
- Chicken: If your toddler prefers, you can swap chicken breast for chicken thighs. They’re a little juicier but taste just as good.
- Breadcrumbs: If you want to make these nuggets gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You could also use crushed cornflakes if you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand.
- Egg: If you can’t use eggs, you can substitute with applesauce or mashed banana to help the breadcrumbs stick.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Chicken Nuggets
- Take 1 pound of chicken breast (or chicken thighs) and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure they’re easy for your toddler to hold and chew.
- Crack 1 egg into a bowl and beat it with a fork.
In another bowl, put 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s fully coated. Press the breadcrumbs gently so they stick well.
- Pan Frying: Heat a little bit of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken nuggets for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Make sure to flip them carefully.
- Baking: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these yummy nuggets with a side of ketchup or yogurt dip. Add some carrot sticks or a small salad to make it even more nutritious.
How to Store
If you have leftovers or want to make these 3-ingredient chicken nuggets ahead of time, here’s how to store them:
- In the Fridge: Place the nuggets in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can quickly reheat them for another meal.
- In the Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the nuggets. Just place them on a tray to freeze for about 1 hour, then put them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To warm them up, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or use the air fryer to make them crispy again. You can also warm them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Best Tips for Success
Here are some easy tips to make your 3-ingredient chicken nuggets turn out just right:
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken breast makes the nuggets tender. You can also use ground chicken if you like.
- Coat Well: Make sure each piece of chicken is covered with egg and breadcrumbs. This helps them get crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re frying, cook just a few nuggets at a time so they cook evenly and stay crispy.
- Check the Inside: Cut one nugget open to make sure it’s fully cooked. It should be white inside, not pink.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the nuggets cool for a few minutes so they’re safe for your little one to eat.
3 ingredient chicken nuggets variations
While the classic 3-ingredient chicken nuggets are simple and delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your family’s taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a healthier, keto-friendly, or quick version, these variations make it easy to change things up without complicating the recipe.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer
Using an air fryer makes these chicken nuggets extra crispy with less oil. It’s perfect for busy parents who want a quick, healthier version of this classic snack for their toddlers.
How to Make It:
To make these nuggets in the air fryer, simply preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets in Oven
If you prefer baking your nuggets, the oven is a great choice. It’s an easy, hands-off way to cook, so you can prepare other meals for your toddler while these bake.
How to Make It:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re crispy and fully cooked.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets No Breading
If you want a simpler version of chicken nuggets, you can skip the breadcrumbs altogether. These nuggets are tender and perfect for babies or toddlers just starting to eat solids.
How to Make It:
Cut the chicken breast into small pieces and season with a little salt. Skip the breadcrumbs, dip the chicken in beaten egg, and cook in a pan or bake as usual. They will be soft and easy to chew.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets for Baby
These nuggets are a great option for babies who are ready to try soft finger foods. They’re mild in flavor and perfect for little ones who are learning how to eat solids.
How to Make It:
Cut the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. Dip the pieces in egg, then cook them in a pan with a little olive oil until golden. You can skip the breadcrumbs for a softer texture.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets Keto
For those following a keto diet, these chicken nuggets are low in carbs but still super tasty. It’s a great option for busy parents who want a healthy snack for themselves and their kids.
How to Make It:
Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb coating. Dip the chicken pieces in egg and cook in the oven or air fryer until crispy and golden.
3-Ingredient Keto Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer
Cooking your keto chicken nuggets in the air fryer makes them crispy without all the extra oil. It’s a quick, low-carb snack option that’s perfect for busy families.
How to Make It:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Coat chicken pieces in almond flour or crushed pork rinds and egg. Air fry for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets with Ground Chicken
If you have ground chicken on hand, you can easily make chicken nuggets without needing to chop or slice the meat. It’s a great option for toddlers who love soft, bite-sized foods.
How to Make It:
Mix ground chicken, egg, and a little breadcrumbs in a bowl. Shape the mixture into small nuggets and cook them in a pan or bake them in the oven until golden and cooked through.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets with Canned Chicken
Using canned chicken is a great shortcut for busy parents who want to make nuggets quickly. These are especially helpful for meal prepping or when you’re in a time crunch.
How to Make It:
Drain and shred the canned chicken. Mix it with egg and breadcrumbs. Form the mixture into nugget shapes and bake or fry until golden brown.
3-Ingredient Keto Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer No Flour
For a keto-friendly and flour-free version, you can skip the flour and breadcrumbs altogether. These nuggets are perfect for those avoiding carbs but still craving a crispy snack.
How to Make It:
Coat chicken pieces in egg and season them lightly. Use crushed pork rinds for the breading. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
4-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets
If you’re okay with adding one more ingredient to your chicken nuggets, you can make them even tastier. This version adds a bit of extra flavor without complicating the recipe.
How to Make It:
Add cheese to the breadcrumbs and egg mixture. Coat the chicken pieces and bake or fry them until golden brown. The cheese adds a yummy, cheesy taste that your toddler will love.
3-Ingredient Low Carb Chicken Nuggets
For those watching their carbs, this low-carb version is perfect. It’s a healthy, simple snack option that’s both kid-friendly and low in carbs.
How to Make It:
Use almond flour or parmesan cheese in place of breadcrumbs. Dip chicken pieces in egg and cook them in the oven or air fryer until crispy and golden.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets in Oven
Baking these chicken nuggets in the oven is a hands-off way to make a large batch for the whole family. It’s an easy method for busy parents who want to get dinner ready quickly.
How to Make It:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes. Flip halfway to get them golden on both sides.
3-Ingredient Orange Chicken with Chicken Nuggets
Combine the fun of chicken nuggets with the tangy flavor of orange chicken. This twist makes a delicious, kid-friendly meal that will keep your little ones coming back for more.
How to Make It:
Make your chicken nuggets as usual, then toss them in orange sauce made from fresh orange juice and soy sauce. Serve with steamed veggies or rice for a complete meal.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets with Rotisserie Chicken
Using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time. It’s already cooked, making it easy to turn into nuggets for your little ones.
How to Make It:
Shred the rotisserie chicken and mix with egg and breadcrumbs. Shape into nuggets and cook them in the oven or air fryer until crispy.
These variations make the recipe flexible and fun, giving you different ways to prepare 3-ingredient chicken nuggets that your kids will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions and helpful solutions for making 3-ingredient chicken nuggets, based on my experience and what other parents might face while preparing this simple recipe:
My chicken nuggets are too soft. How can I make them firmer?
To make your nuggets firmer, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to the mixture. This will help bind everything together and give the nuggets a better texture. If you’re using ground chicken, make sure to mix it well and don’t overwork it, or it might become too soft.
Can I make these chicken nuggets without breadcrumbs?
Yes, if you don’t have breadcrumbs or want to avoid them, you can use crushed cornflakes or even oats as an alternative. Both of these options will give the nuggets a nice crispy texture. For a healthier version, you could also use ground almonds as a coating.
How do I make the chicken nuggets crispy without frying?
To make crispy nuggets without frying, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also use the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they get crispy on all sides.
Can I make these nuggets for my baby?
Yes! These nuggets are soft and easy to chew, making them perfect for babies or toddlers just starting to eat finger foods. You can skip the breadcrumbs to make them even softer. Just make sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces that are safe for your baby to hold and chew.
How can I store leftovers?
To store any leftover chicken nuggets, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
My chicken nuggets turned out dry. What went wrong?
If your nuggets turned out dry, it’s possible that they were overcooked. To keep them juicy, make sure not to cook them for too long. When baking, check them around 15-20 minutes to ensure they don’t dry out. You can also try adding a little olive oil or chicken broth to the mix to help retain moisture.
How can I add more flavor to these nuggets?
You can easily add more flavor by seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a little herb seasoning. Adding these seasonings to the breadcrumbs or egg wash will help make the nuggets tastier for your little one.
3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets
Make soft 3-ingredient chicken nuggets toddlers love! Quick, healthy, and perfect for snacks, lunch, or baby-led weaning meals.
4
servings5
minutes15
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minutesIngredients
1 pound chicken breast (you can also use chicken thighs)
1 cup breadcrumbs (you can use regular or whole wheat)
1 large egg
Directions
- Take 1 pound of chicken breast (or chicken thighs) and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure they’re easy for your toddler to hold and chew.
- Crack 1 egg into a bowl and beat it with a fork.
- In another bowl, put 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
- Steps by steps instruction 3 ingredients Chicken Nuggets
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s fully coated. Press the breadcrumbs gently so they stick well.
- Pan Frying: Heat a little bit of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken nuggets for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Make sure to flip them carefully.
- Baking: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
