Crispy Homemade Mayonnaise Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Homemade Mayonnaise Chicken Nuggets are the ultimate crowd-pleasing comfort food—golden on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside. Made with real chicken breast, eggs, mayo, cheese, and fresh dill, these nuggets are perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even game-day snacks. No processed meat, just wholesome ingredients packed into irresistible bites.

What Are Chicken Nuggets?

Chicken nuggets are bite-sized pieces of chicken that are typically breaded and deep-fried until golden and crispy. While many associate them with fast food, homemade chicken nuggets offer a healthier, fresher version using real chicken breasts and customizable seasoning. They first gained popularity in the U.S. in the 1950s and have since become a staple in American comfort food culture.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crispy outside, tender inside—every bite delivers a satisfying crunch.
• Made from scratch with real chicken, cheese, and herbs—so much better than store-bought!
• Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
• Ready in minutes after chilling—just scoop, fry, and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Nuggets

1. Chill the mixture for at least 2 hours—this helps the batter firm up for easy scooping.
2. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to form consistent nuggets.
3. Fry over medium-high heat so the outside crisps without burning before the inside is done.
4. Try air frying for a lighter alternative—just spray with oil and cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
5. Add paprika or garlic powder for a flavor twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Chicken Nuggets in the Air Fryer?

Yes! Spray or brush each formed nugget with oil and cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Chopped Breast?

Absolutely. Ground chicken will give you a more uniform texture, similar to store-bought nuggets.

Do I Need to Bread the Nuggets?

Nope! This version skips breadcrumbs entirely. The batter forms a crisp outer layer during frying.

Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?

Yes, place the nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Is It Okay to Skip the Dill?

Sure! You can omit the dill or swap it for parsley, chives, or Italian seasoning.

How Can I Make These Gluten-Free?

Just substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking mix.

How to Freeze Chicken Nuggets

Let the cooked nuggets cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

To reheat, bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or air fry until heated through and crisp.

You can also freeze the raw mixture: portion onto a lined tray, freeze until solid, then bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frying.

How to Store Chicken Nuggets

Once cooked and cooled, store the nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture crunchy.

How To Make Chicken Nuggets

Step 1

Step 1

Cut chicken breasts into slices, then small pieces. Transfer to a large bowl. Add eggs, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, flour, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up.

Cut chicken breasts into slices, then small pieces. Transfer to a large bowl. Add eggs, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, flour, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up.

Step 2

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Use a spoon to scoop the mixture and gently flatten into nugget shapes directly into the hot oil.

In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Use a spoon to scoop the mixture and gently flatten into nugget shapes directly into the hot oil.

Step 3

Step 3

Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and cooked through.

Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4

Step 4

Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!