Almond Chicken Nuggets With Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
Crispy almond-coated chicken nuggets with a sweet honey mustard dipping sauce, perfect for a flavorful snack or appetizer that appeals to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, mix together vegetable oil, lemon juice, and soy sauce.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade.
- Toss the chicken to coat evenly.
- Marinate for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat oil for frying.
- Coat marinated chicken with finely ground almonds and Oriental seasoning mix.
- Deep fry the coated chicken until golden and cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, mix honey mustard, honey, and orange juice to prepare the dipping sauce.
- Serve the chicken nuggets hot with honey mustard sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs mixed with the finely ground almonds. If you don't have soy sauce, tamari is a great gluten-free substitute. For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the almond coating. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that desired golden color.
Serving Suggestions
These almond chicken nuggets pair beautifully with the honey mustard dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer or snack. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad, such as the Orange Cauliflower Salad, and some crispy sweet potato fries. They can also be a fun addition to a party platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which helps retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Chicken Nuggets With Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce contains roughly 1076 calories, with 3g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 835mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's important to thaw them completely before marinating. This ensures even flavor absorption and proper cooking during frying. Plan ahead to allow ample time for thawing in the refrigerator.
What oil should I use for frying?
Peanut oil is a great choice for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can also use vegetable or canola oil. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and may impart an unwanted flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure that your Oriental seasoning mix is also gluten-free, as some products may contain wheat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).