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Grilled Nuggets Recipe

Chicken nuggets are a delicious and convenient classic. But who says healthy can’t be fun and flavorful, too? Today, we’re ditching the drive-thru and firing up the grill for a homemade, more nutritious version of this childhood favorite.

What Is Grilled Nuggets?

Grilled nuggets are pieces of meat, usually chicken, cooked by grilling rather than frying. They are a healthier substitutes to traditional fried chicken nuggets because grilling involves cooking without added oils or breading, resulting in a leaner and often lower-calorie dish.

Ingredients:

Chicken: 1-1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders

Marinade (Optional):

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Breadcrumbs (Optional):

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Oil: Olive or vegetable oil for greasing the grill

Instructions:

Prep The Chicken:

  • Cut the chicken breasts or tenders into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch cubes.
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade or breadcrumbs adhere better.

Marinate (Optional):

  • Combine the lemon juice, olive oil, spices, and herbs in a large bowl for the marinade.
  • Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat evenly.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for extra flavor.

Prepare The Breadcrumbs (Optional):

  • Combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper in a dish.
  • You can add other seasonings like paprika or dried herbs to customize the flavor.

Heat The Grill:

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat on the stovetop.
  • Lightly brush the grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.

Cook The Nuggets:

  • If using breadcrumbs, remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
  • Alternatively, you can simply coat the chicken with a thin layer of olive oil.
  • Place the chicken nuggets on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • To check the internal temperature, use a meat thermometer. Which should be 165°F (74°C).

Serve:

  • Once cooked, remove the nuggets from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve them warm with your preferred dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

Tips:

  • Soak the skewers: If using skewers to thread the chicken, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to stop them from burning.
  • Control the size: To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are similar in size.
  • Don’t overcrowd the grill: Leave space between the nuggets for proper heat circulation and to prevent them from sticking together.
  • Don’t overcook: Chicken can dry out quickly. Watch it closely and remove it from the grill once cooked.
  • Get creative with flavors: Experiment with different marinades and breadcrumb combinations to create unique flavor profiles.
  • For extra cheesy goodness, you can use spices like chili powder, cumin, or Italian seasoning or add grated cheese to the breadcrumbs.
  • Leftovers: Leftover grilled nuggets can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven until well cooked.  

What To Serve With

Side Dishes:

  1. Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the grilled flavor of the nuggets.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables, like asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes, simply seasoned and roasted, add color and nutrition to the dish.
  3. Steamed or Grilled Corn: Corn on the cob or grilled corn kernels with butter and herbs make a simple yet flavorful side dish.
  4. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs, nuts, and dried fruits adds texture and richness to the meal.
  5. Potato Salad: Creamy or vinaigrette-based potato salad with herbs and crunchy vegetables offers a satisfying contrast to the grilled nuggets.
  6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing provides a refreshing crunch.

Sauces And Dips:

  • Honey Mustard Sauce: A classic dipping sauce that complements the grilled nuggets well.
  • BBQ Sauce: Adds a smoky flavor and tanginess to the nuggets.
  • Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli enhances the grilled flavor and adds richness.
  • Tzatziki: A yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and herbs, perfect for a Mediterranean twist.

Bread Or Rolls:

Whole Grain Rolls: Serve grilled nuggets with whole grain rolls or bread for a more substantial meal.

Beverages:

  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing choices that go well with grilled dishes.
  • Beer or Wine: A light beer or a crisp white wine can be a nice pairing, depending on the occasion.

Desserts:

  • Fruit Salad: A combination of fresh seasonal fruits for a light and sweet ending.
  • Grilled Pineapple: Grilled pineapple slices with a slice of cinnamon or a scoop of ice cream ( vanilla).

Health Benefits

  • Lower in Calories: Grilling chicken nuggets reduces the amount of added fats and oils compared to frying. This decreases calorie count per serving, making grilled nuggets a better choice for people limiting their calorie intake.
  • Reduced Fat Content: Grilling allows excess fat to drip away from the chicken as it cooks. This lowers the overall fat content of the nuggets compared to frying, which often requires submerging the meat in oil.
  • Lean Protein Source: Chicken is a lean protein, and grilling preserves its nutritional value without adding unhealthy fats. Protein is important for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
  • Less Processed Ingredients: Grilled nuggets typically involve minimal seasoning and are cooked simply, avoiding the additional breading and frying oils used in traditional fried nuggets. This reduces the intake of processed ingredients and potential additives.
  • Healthier Cooking Method: Grilling is considered a healthier cooking method because it preserves more nutrients than frying, which can degrade some vitamins and minerals due to higher temperatures and prolonged exposure to oils.
  • Lower Risk of Health Issues: Consuming less fried food, often associated with higher levels of trans fats and unhealthy oils, can reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health issues.
  • Versatility in Cooking: Grilled nuggets can be used in different dishes such as salads, wraps, sandwiches, or served with vegetables, providing a versatile and nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Grilled nuggets are a game-changer for anyone who loves classic chicken but wants a healthier, more flavorful option. They’re surprisingly easy to make, customizable to your taste preferences, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

More Meat Recipes:

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