Keto chicken nuggets are a total game changer, right? I can’t count how many times I’ve craved drive-thru nuggets and just sat there staring at the menu, knowing I shouldn’t. If you’ve ever eyed those crispy little bites but worried about low-carb goals, you’re not alone. Trust me, you CAN have your favorite comfort food the keto way. I found a recipe at Simply Keto Recipes that honestly fixed all my nugget cravings in one go, and now, well, I make them way too often. Check out this keto chicken nuggets recipe if you’re impatient like me and want the shortcut.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
So why am I actually obsessed with these keto chicken nuggets? Let me count the ways, or at least try. First, they taste absolutely incredible. Not even joking, these are crunchy on the outside and juicy inside, just like the fast food spots. I never miss the drive-thru now, that’s for sure.
Second, these are FAST. I’m talking minimal ingredients you likely already have stashed in your kitchen. That’s something I love — no weird flours or eleven kinds of cheese. It’s all straightforward.
And here’s my opinion, probably controversial: homemade nuggets are way more fun. You can play around, snack while you cook, even let the kids help with the coating part (mine always want to, though it gets messy, fair warning). Plus, you’ll feel a little like a five-star chef with zero stress.
Honestly, after you do these once, you’ll get why I’m saying they fix your nugget cravings and keep it keto. Seriously.
“Thought I’d never find a decent keto nugget that made the whole family happy. These did. Haven’t looked back since.” – Jamie L.
Top Tips
Alright, don’t make the rookie mistakes I did at the start. Here’s how to get your keto chicken nuggets crispy and tasty every single time. The biggest tip? Use bite-size chunks of chicken breast or thigh. Basically, stay away from giant pieces. They cook unevenly, which, trust me, isn’t what you want.
For the coating, almond flour is usually my go-to, but sometimes a bit of crushed pork rind (yep, pork rinds) gives you this extra-level crunch. Season it up! Garlic powder, a little paprika, salt, and pepper. Don’t skimp or the nuggets can taste kind of bland and… blah.
When frying, get the oil hot enough before dropping in your nuggets. Too cool, and they soak up oil like a sponge — too hot, and you’ll burn the outside. I usually test it with a little piece of the coating first. Don’t crowd the pan because then you’ll get soggy results, and no one wants that disappointment.
Final tip? Serve immediately! These keto chicken nuggets have the most satisfying crunch straight off the stove or out of the oven. Get some good dipping sauce ready (more on that soon).
Variations
Bored with plain? Me too, sometimes. The awesome thing about keto chicken nuggets is you can switch things up so easily. Swapping out spices changes the whole vibe. If you love heat, a bit of cayenne or buffalo sauce in the egg wash does wild things (in a good way). Sometimes I’ll mix in grated parmesan with the almond flour — makes each bite cheesy and next-level. Want another twist? Dip in sugar-free BBQ before the coating for a tangy crust.
If you’re dairy-free, just skip the cheese. Not kidding, these still hold together and taste great. I’ve even tried a coconut flour variation which was (to be honest) a bit sweeter, but not bad at all. Oh, and kids really love the mini versions. Tiny nuggets, big fun. For other keto chicken ideas with different flavors, check out amazing recipes like easy keto chicken enchilada casserole.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces for Keto Chicken Nuggets
Okay, let’s get into the good stuff. Here’s how I usually serve my keto chicken nuggets so the whole bunch (even picky eaters) get excited:
- Classic ranch or blue cheese – you can’t beat creamy dips with that crispy nugget crunch.
- Sugar-free ketchup (or spicy mayo) – not gonna lie, tastes practically like the “real thing.”
- With a fresh green salad – make your meal look five-star and get some veggies in, too.
- Paired with keto chicken tortilla soup if you’re extra hungry, try keto chicken tortilla soup.
Sometimes I pile the nuggets on a platter with a bunch of different sauces, let everyone go to town. Makes weeknight dinners feel special.
Storage
Honestly, these keto chicken nuggets are best fresh, but leftover? Still tasty. After you finish the meal, just pop any extras in an airtight container and stick them in the fridge. They usually keep three days or so (if they last that long!). If you want to re-crisp, throw them into an air fryer or hot oven for a few minutes. The microwave is super convenient but, heads up, will make them a little softer.
If you’re the planning type, you can freeze uncooked coated nuggets on a tray, then transfer them to a bag. Pull out what you need for easy last-minute meals. Not that I ever plan that far, but hey, maybe you’re more organized than me.
Common Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Definitely. Bake at around 400°F until crispy, turning halfway so every side gets a bit of crunch.
What’s the best oil to use for frying?
I love avocado oil. It holds up to high heat and doesn’t leave a weird aftertaste.
Can I use chicken thigh instead of breast?
Sure thing! Thighs come out juicier and are sometimes cheaper, too.
Do these taste like traditional nuggets?
Honestly, yes. They scratch that fried chicken itch with none of the guilt.
Are these nuggets gluten free?
Yep, absolutely. As long as your ingredients are keto-safe and gluten free, you’re good to go.
Ready to Snack Like a Pro
So! That’s the rundown on my favorite crispy keto chicken nuggets, the ones that keep me from raiding the kid’s fast food leftovers. If you get creative with your seasonings and try tricks like pork rinds, you’ll never get bored. Don’t forget there are even more ideas over at Low Carb Chicken Nuggets – Hungry Happens and another take from Keto Chicken Nuggets – Grumpy’s Honeybunch. You can also peep Easy Keto Chicken Nuggets – Beauty and the Foodie for more inspiration. Seriously, just try these nuggets tonight and see if you’re not completely hooked by tomorrow. Happy crunching!
Keto Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
For the chicken nuggets
- 1 lb chicken breast or thigh Cut into bite-size chunks.
- 1 cup almond flour For coating.
- 1 large egg For the egg wash.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1 tsp paprika For seasoning.
- to taste salt and pepper To season the nuggets.
- oil for frying avocado oil or preferred oil For frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into bite-size chunks and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg.
Cooking
- Dip chicken pieces into the egg and then coat with the almond flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a frying pan until hot.
- Fry the chicken nuggets in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes each side.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.