Sesame Chicken Nuggets
Crispy sesame chicken nuggets offer a delightful combination of tender chicken with a nutty sesame coating, perfect for casual snacking or appetizer platters. Their golden exterior and flavorful interior make them a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike, served with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash chicken and cut into cubes approximately 1 to 2 inches in size.
- Set aside to drain on paper towels.
- Mix beaten egg, milk, salt, and sesame seed in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add chicken to the egg mixture and coat well.
- Coat each piece of chicken with self-rising flour.
- Heat shortening on medium until ready to fry.
- Add nuggets a few at a time to the hot shortening to prevent sticking, turning them 2 or 3 times until they are tender and golden brown.
- Remove nuggets from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with sauces such as barbecue, honey mustard, or sweet-and-sour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and garlic before coating. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder. To achieve a crunchier texture, double-dip the chicken pieces in the egg mixture and flour. Keep an eye on the oil temperature to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame chicken nuggets hot as a delightful appetizer or main dish. They pair beautifully with sauces like barbecue, honey mustard, or sweet-and-sour. For a complete meal, consider serving with steamed rice or a fresh salad. These nuggets also make a great addition to a platter alongside recipes such as Easy Chicken Hawaiian.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sesame 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, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Chicken Nuggets contains roughly 527 calories, with 14g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% 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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while the recipe calls for chicken, you can also use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins may require varying times to cook through.
What can I do if I don't have sesame seeds?
If you don't have sesame seeds, you can either omit them or substitute with breadcrumbs for a different texture. Alternatively, try using crushed nuts like almonds or peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make sesame chicken nuggets healthier, consider baking instead of frying. Simply coat the chicken as instructed, then place it on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
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).