Chicken Parm Nuggets Recipe

Total Time: 50 minutes

 

Yield: 16-18 pieces

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1.5” x .5” pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup canned or jarred tomato sauce
• Minced parsley for garnish

 

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
2. Cut each chicken tender crosswise in half. Using a paring knife, cut a pocket into each piece lengthwise. Gently insert a finger into the pocket to expand it without tearing it. Push a stick of mozzarella into the pocket until it's completely enclosed with chicken. Repeat until all nuggets are stuffed.
3. Season nuggets with more salt and ground black pepper. Dredge each piece in flour and tap off excess, then dip in egg, then dredge in bread crumb mixture.
4. In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil over high heat until almost smoking. Add chicken nuggets, 6 at a time, and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Heat tomato sauce in a medium saucepan until simmering.
6. Garnish nuggets with parsley and Parmesan. Serve with sauce on the side for dipping