Spicy Chicken Nuggets

Chicken nuggets—they’re not just for kids. Adults will love these spicy chicken nuggets, made with a homemade seasoning blend and baked to crispy perfection. If you have kids who can’t tolerate spice, simply bread a few pieces before you add the chipotle pepper. Especially when paired with a homemade dipping sauce, spicy chicken nuggets make for a quick, delicious main dish or afternoon snack.

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Nuggets Recipe

• Panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs are lighter and crunchier than regular bread crumbs.
• Parmesan cheese: When added to the panko, Parmesan amps up the flavor of the breading.
• Ground chipotle pepper: Chipotle pepper adds a nice warmth and spice to these nuggets (you could also skip this or make a few pieces without it for kids).
• Butter: You’ll use butter to coat the chicken before breading it to ensure that the coating sticks.
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a richer, more intense flavor than other cuts.

Directions

Step 1: Make the breading

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a shallow bowl, mix the bread crumbs, cheese and (if desired) chipotle pepper. Place the butter in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Dip the chicken pieces in the butter, then in the crumb mixture, patting to help the coating adhere.

Step 3: Bake the chicken

Place the chicken in a greased 15x10x1-inch baking pan; sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until no longer pink.

Spicy Chicken Nuggets Recipe Variations

• Make them spicier: If you like spice, increase the ground chipotle pepper in this recipe or add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne. Or, lightly sprinkle the chicken thighs with hot sauce before coating them. You can also add some heat with your dipping sauce (explore the options with our ultimate guide to hot sauce).

How to Store Spicy Chicken Nuggets

You can store any leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat them, you can either pop them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes or in an air fryer on the reheat setting.

Can you freeze spicy chicken nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze these chicken nuggets. Store them in an airtight freezer bag and they’ll stay good for at least one month.

Spicy Chicken Nugget Recipe Tips

How do you cut chicken thighs into nuggets?

Use a sharp knife and cutting board designated for uncooked poultry. Cut the chicken into pieces of roughly the same size, as this allows for even cooking. After handling raw chicken, wash your hands well and reach for new cutting and cooking tools.

What else can I serve with spicy chicken nuggets?

We like serving a veggie and a starch with these chicken nuggets. Roasted broccoli or cauliflower and mashed potatoes or French fries are always good options.

What sauce pairs well with spicy chicken nuggets?

Honey, honey mustard, ranch dressing, marinara and barbecue sauce all pair nicely with spicy chicken nuggets. Consider making one of these homemade condiments to serve with your nuggets.