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Homemade Turkey Nuggets photo

Turkey Nuggets

These Turkey Nuggets are crispy, flavorful, and a healthier alternative to traditional chicken nuggets!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces turkey breast tenderloins cut into 1" cubes
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

Instructions

  • Start by cutting the turkey breast tenderloins into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
  • In three separate bowls, set up your dredging station: In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour mixed with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick.
  • Coat each turkey cube in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the turkey cube in the panko mixture until fully coated. Repeat with all the turkey cubes.
  • In a large frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles and browns quickly, it’s ready.
  • Carefully place a few turkey nuggets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the nuggets and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  • Serve your crispy turkey nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces, like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

Equipment

  • Frying pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowls
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper Towels

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the turkey cubes in buttermilk and spices for a few hours before dredging.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy nuggets.
  • If you prefer baking, you can place the coated nuggets on a baking sheet and spray them lightly with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.