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Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe

If you are craving a delightful snack that bursts with bold flavors and irresistible crispiness, the Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe is just what you need. These nuggets bring together tender chicken pieces coated in a fragrant blend of traditional Indian spices, perfectly balanced to give a spicy yet comforting kick. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer or a crowd-pleasing finger food, this recipe delivers all the warmth, texture, and zest in every bite, making it an instant favorite for all ages.

Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind the Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role, whether adding spice, moisture, or the necessary crunch that makes these nuggets stand out. Let’s walk through the essentials.

  • Chicken breast (1 lb): The star protein, cut into perfect bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
  • Yogurt (2 tablespoons): Acts as a tenderizing base and helps the spices cling beautifully.
  • Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Adds a fragrant punch that wakes up the flavor profile.
  • Garam masala (1 teaspoon): A warm, aromatic spice blend essential for authentic Indian taste.
  • Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle heat that enhances without overpowering.
  • Turmeric powder (¼ teaspoon): Brings vibrant color and subtle earthiness.
  • Salt (½ teaspoon, plus ½ teaspoon for flour mix): Balances and highlights all other flavors.
  • Ground pepper (½ teaspoon): Compliments the spiciness with a sharp edge.
  • All-purpose flour (½ cup): Helps coat the chicken and creates a light crust.
  • Egg (1, beaten): Acts as a binding agent to hold the breading firmly in place.
  • Bread crumbs (1 cup): For that irresistibly crunchy texture we all love.
  • Oil for deep frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying results.

How to Make Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breast into handy 1-inch pieces that will cook evenly. In a bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Toss the chicken pieces gently to coat them thoroughly. Let them soak in these spices for 10 to 15 minutes—the short marinating time is enough to infuse the chicken with bold Indian aroma and tenderness.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt in a shallow dish. Prepare your beaten egg in another bowl, and have the bread crumbs ready in a third dish. Dip each piece of marinated chicken first into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally coat it with bread crumbs. This triple coating process is what guarantees a golden, crunchy exterior. Place the coated nuggets in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help the breading set firmly.

Step 3: Fry the Nuggets

Heat enough oil in a deep pan for frying—aim for about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add batches of the coated chicken nuggets, frying them until they turn a lovely golden brown, which should take around 4 to 5 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain the oil temperature. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the nuggets onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. The result is nuggets that are crisp outside, juicy inside, and bursting with spices.

How to Serve Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or mint leaves over the nuggets to add a fresh and vibrant contrast against the rich spices. A light dusting of chaat masala can also elevate the flavor with a tangy edge that pairs perfectly with the crispy nuggets.

Side Dishes

Serve these nuggets alongside cooling cucumber raita or a tangy tamarind chutney to balance the heat. They also go wonderfully with simple fresh salad, naan bread, or even some seasoned fries for a more indulgent snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, thread the nuggets onto skewers with colorful bell peppers and onions for a playful presentation. You can also turn them into sliders using mini buns, lettuce, and a smear of spiced mayo—perfect for parties or casual family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, keep your leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days without losing their flavor or texture, making them an easy grab-and-go snack.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the fully cooked nuggets by arranging them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to a month and can be cooked directly from frozen for convenience.

Reheating

To reheat, place the nuggets on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain their crunch and fresh taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same marinating and cooking process for equally delicious nuggets.

Is it possible to bake the nuggets instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Arrange the coated nuggets on a greased baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway for an even crisp.

How spicy are these nuggets?

The spice level is moderate, thanks to the balanced usage of chili powder and garam masala. You can adjust the chili amount to your liking, making it milder or spicier as you prefer.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Definitely! Preparing the marinade a day ahead and storing it in the fridge will only deepen the flavors. Just marinate the chicken when ready to cook for the freshest experience.

What dips work best with Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe?

Mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a simple garlic yogurt dip complement the spices beautifully. You could also serve them with a classic ketchup or spicy mayo for variety.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have everything you need to whip up these flavorful bites, don’t hesitate to bring this Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe into your kitchen. It’s a recipe that promises joy in every crunchy, spicy mouthful and is sure to become a beloved staple for your family and friends. Happy cooking and even happier snacking!

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Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets Recipe


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4 from 80 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Spiced Indian Chicken Nuggets are a flavorful twist on the classic snack, featuring tender chicken marinated in aromatic Indian spices and yogurt, then coated in a crispy bread crumb crust and deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they bring a delightful combination of spice and crunch that’s sure to impress.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon ground pepper

Breading

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • Oil for deep frying


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, minced garlic, garam masala, chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and ground pepper. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Let the mixture marinate for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt. Dip each marinated chicken piece first into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with bread crumbs. Ensure every nugget is well covered to develop a crispy crust. Place the coated nuggets in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help the coating set.
  3. Fry the Nuggets: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to an appropriate temperature for frying (around 350°F or 175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken nuggets in the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes depending on size. Remove and drain the nuggets on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  4. Serve: Arrange the spiced chicken nuggets on a serving plate and serve hot with your choice of dips such as mint chutney, ketchup, or a spicy yogurt sauce for an authentic Indian snack experience.

Notes

  • Adjust the chili powder to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the nuggets from absorbing excess oil and becoming greasy.
  • Use fresh bread crumbs for the best crispy texture; panko breadcrumbs can be used as an alternative for extra crunch.
  • Marinating time can be extended to up to 1 hour for more intense flavor.
  • These nuggets can be baked instead of fried for a healthier alternative, using a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Indian

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