Growing up in a busy household with three siblings and a working mom, dinner often needed to be quick, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing. One evening, with only a few pantry staples left, my mom pulled out a can of chicken and whipped up something magical — homemade nuggets. They were golden, crispy, and surprisingly flavorful. We devoured them in minutes, dipping into ketchup, mayo, and honey mustard. That spontaneous creation turned into a family staple.
Fast forward to today — I’ve refined her technique and added my own twists. Canned chicken nuggets are still the perfect quick-fix comfort food. Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or someone looking for an affordable and delicious protein-packed snack, these nuggets are a go-to.
Why People Love This Canned Chicken Nugget Recipe?
There are plenty of reasons why canned chicken nuggets have a devoted fan base:
- Convenient: Made from pantry-staple canned chicken.
- Fast: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Budget-friendly: Affordable without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: Easily seasoned to suit your taste.
- Kid-approved: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — kids love them!
These nuggets combine practicality with nostalgia, offering the perfect bite every time.
Ingredients for Canned Chicken Nugget Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for a basic batch of canned chicken nuggets:
- 1 (12.5 oz) can of chicken breast, drained and flaked
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for flavor boost)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
Ingredient Variation Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or hot sauce to the mix.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for gooey bites.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
- Air-Fryer Friendly: Use less oil and cook in an air fryer for a healthier version.
- Herby Flavor: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano give an earthy tone.
- Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of five-spice powder.
Cooking Process of Canned Chicken Nugget Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine drained and shredded canned chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Parmesan (if using), and seasonings. Use a fork or clean hands to mix until the mixture binds together.
Step 2: Shape the Nuggets
Scoop out small portions (about 1½ tablespoons) and form them into nugget shapes or small patties. For uniformity, use a cookie scoop.
Step 3: Prepare for Frying
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You want about ½ inch of oil depth for shallow frying. Test the heat by dropping in a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle immediately.
Step 4: Cook the Nuggets
Gently place nuggets into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Transfer cooked nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels. Let them rest for a minute before serving with your favorite dips.
Pro Tips for Perfect Canned Chicken Nuggets
- Drain thoroughly: Squeeze out extra moisture from the canned chicken to ensure the nuggets aren’t soggy.
- Chill before shaping: If your mixture feels too wet, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
- Double breading option: For extra crunch, coat the shaped nuggets in additional breadcrumbs before frying.
- Even cooking: Make sure oil is hot enough before frying to prevent oil absorption and sogginess.
- Bake or air-fry: If you want a healthier alternative, bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes.
Final Thought On Canned Chicken Nugget Recipe
There’s something deeply satisfying about turning simple canned chicken into a crave-worthy dish. These homemade nuggets strike the perfect balance between easy and indulgent. Serve them as a quick weeknight dinner, game-day snack, or even stash some in the freezer for emergencies. One bite, and you’ll realize — convenience food doesn’t have to mean boring food.
Crispy Canned Chicken Nugget Recipe
Quick, crispy, and irresistibly delicious chicken nuggets made from canned chicken. A pantry-friendly recipe that delivers comfort and crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine drained and shredded canned chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Parmesan (if using), and seasonings. Use a fork or clean hands to mix until the mixture binds together.
-
Scoop out small portions (about 1½ tablespoons) and form them into nugget shapes or small patties. For uniformity, use a cookie scoop.
-
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You want about ½ inch of oil depth for shallow frying. Test the heat by dropping in a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle immediately.
-
Gently place nuggets into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
-
Transfer cooked nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels. Let them rest for a minute before serving with your favorite dips.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 240kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14g22%
- Sodium 480mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
