Name: Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ¾ tablespoon (2¼ teaspoons) onion powder; ¾ tablespoon (2¼ teaspoons) garlic powder; ½ tablespoon (1½ teaspoons) paprika; ¾ teaspoon black pepper; ¾ cup water; Vegetable oil or other neutral frying oil

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 46 reviews

If you have ever found yourself craving the unmistakable, crispy, and tender deliciousness straight from the golden arches, then I have just the treat for you. This Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets Recipe captures that iconic flavor and texture you love, all made right in your own kitchen. The magic lies in the combination of the perfectly seasoned ground chicken nuggets dipped in a light batter and double-fried to golden perfection, delivering that addictive crunch with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging a fast food craving, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the top is a white bowl filled with raw, finely ground pink meat. Below it, a white egg sits by itself casting a soft shadow. To the right of the egg, there is a white bowl full of white flour with a slightly rough texture. Below that bowl, there is another white bowl filled with a powdery, white substance. To the left at the bottom, a white plate holds four small piles of spices: bright red, pale beige, light gray, and a sandy beige. To the right of this plate is a clear glass filled with water and next to it, a small white dish filled with salt. The whole arrangement is simple and clean, with sharp shadows creating depth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but thoughtfully chosen to recreate that classic McDonald’s nugget experience. Each plays an essential role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and crunch you’re after.

1 pound ground chicken: The base of the nuggets, perfectly lean and tender for juicy results.
1 egg: Acts as a binder, helping the nuggets hold their shape while adding richness.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite savory and satisfying.
½ cup cornstarch: Creates a crispy outer layer that makes the nuggets irresistibly crunchy.
¾ cup water: Used to thin the batter for a smooth, even coating on the nuggets.
¾ tablespoon onion powder: Boosts the savory depth with a subtle sweet and pungent kick.
¾ tablespoon garlic powder: Adds warm, fragrant notes essential for that signature seasoning.
½ tablespoon paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky flavor and lovely color to the batter.
¾ teaspoon pepper: Brings a hint of heat and balance to the seasoning mix.
½ cup flour: Provides body for the batter, ensuring it clings well and crisps beautifully.

How to Make Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Start by combining the ground chicken, egg, and kosher salt in a bowl until everything is evenly mixed. This ensures the nuggets are flavorful from the inside out. Then, shape the mixture into tablespoon-sized nuggets for that authentic bite-sized experience. Lightly coat each nugget in cornstarch to set the stage for that irresistibly crispy crust.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and water until you have a smooth batter without lumps. This batter will give your nuggets that distinct golden glow and a crunchy texture that perfectly mimics the originals.

Step 3: Coat the Nuggets

Dip each cornstarch-coated nugget into the batter using a fork. Allow the excess batter to drip off to avoid a heavy coating, which could weigh down the nuggets and make them soggy instead of crisp.

Step 4: Fry the Nuggets – First Round

Heat about two inches of oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F. Carefully place the battered nuggets into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3 minutes or until they rise to the surface and show a light golden color. This initial fry cooks the chicken through while beginning to develop the crispy exterior.

Step 5: Fry the Nuggets – Second Round

Remove the nuggets and let them rest on paper towels to drain excess oil. Then, return the nuggets to the oil for a second fry, about 2 minutes, or until they become golden brown and perfectly crisp. This two-step frying process is the key to that iconic crunchy texture everyone loves.

How to Serve Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets Recipe

A close-up photo shows a woman's hand holding a golden-brown, crisp, and textured chip that is half-dipped into a creamy, light orange sauce with small red and green specks visible. The chip has a slightly rough surface with dark seasoning dots. The white bowl holding the sauce is filled almost to the brim and sits on a white marbled surface, with another golden chip partly visible in the background. The scene is bright and clear, showing the smoothness of the sauce and the crunchiness of the chip. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your nuggets can elevate the experience. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and brightness, while a small dusting of extra paprika can enhance the smoky notes. Even a wedge of lemon on the side can bring out the flavors with a hint of citrus freshness.

Side Dishes

These nuggets shine best when paired with classic sides. Crispy French fries or a light, fresh coleslaw offer the perfect balance. For a healthier twist, try serving them alongside oven-roasted vegetables or a crunchy green salad to keep things fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Present the nuggets in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for that fast-food nostalgia. Add cute dipping stations with your favorite sauces — honey mustard, classic barbecue, or a creamy ranch all complement the nuggets splendidly. For a party, serve them on skewers with alternating veggies for a fun finger food option everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their best quality for up to three days, so you can enjoy the crispy goodness without worries.

Freezing

The nuggets freeze wonderfully for longer storage. Cool them completely, then place them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps their texture intact for up to a month.

Reheating

To reheat, skip the microwave if you want to keep that crunch intact. Instead, pop the nuggets in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes or use an air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes at 350°F. This way, your Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets Recipe taste just as fresh and crispy as the day you made them.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! You can finely chop or pulse chicken breast in a food processor to mimic the texture of ground chicken. Just keep in mind that ground chicken is more uniform and usually juicier, but fresh chicken breast can work well with the same seasoning and cooking method.

What kind of oil is best for frying the nuggets?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are your best bet. They ensure the nuggets fry evenly and get crispy without imparting unwanted flavors.

Is the double-frying really necessary?

Yes! The double-fry technique is crucial for achieving that signature crunchy exterior with a juicy interior. The first fry cooks the chicken, and the second fry crisps up the batter perfectly.

Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?

You can certainly bake the nuggets for a lighter version, but be aware they won’t get quite as crunchy as the fried ones. Baking at a high temperature with a light spray of oil can help mimic the texture somewhat.

What dipping sauces pair best with these nuggets?

Classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, and even sweet and sour sauce complement these nuggets beautifully. Experiment and find your favorite combo — it’s all about what you love!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about recreating a beloved fast food favorite in your own kitchen, and this Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets Recipe delivers all that nostalgic joy packed into crispy, flavorful nuggets. Give it a try the next time you’re craving that iconic taste—your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to share) will thank you. Homemade nuggets have never been this fun or delicious!