Kids and crispy chicken – a match made in heaven! But navigating the world of processed nuggets, filled with unfamiliar ingredients and questionable nutritional value, can leave parents feeling uneasy. This recipe for homemade chicken pops offers a delicious and healthier alternative, perfect for picky eaters and health-conscious parents alike. Using simple ingredients you likely already have, you can create crispy, flavourful chicken pops that your kids will adore, without sacrificing quality or your peace of mind. They're fun to make, fun to eat, and a fantastic way to sneak some extra vegetables into their diets.
Forget the drive-thru and the long ingredient lists! This recipe delivers on flavour and texture, using readily available pantry staples and a simple breading technique that produces unbelievably crunchy results. These chicken pops are perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a fun family dinner. Ready to transform your family's mealtime? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- All-purpose flour
- Rice flour
- Ground pepper
- Seasoning powder
- Marinade (ingredients unspecified)
- Palm oil
- Tomato sauce (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate Chicken
- Remove the skin from the chicken breast, wash it, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add all the seasonings and mix well. Let it soak for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Step 2. Bread the Chicken
- Combine both types of flour, ground pepper, and seasoning powder. Mix thoroughly.
- Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. Coat the chicken pieces in the dry flour mixture.
- Dip the flour-coated chicken in water, then shake off excess water. Repeat the flour coating process once more.
Step 3. Fry the Chicken Pops
- Heat palm oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Once the chicken is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the chicken pops hot, optionally with tomato sauce.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Use medium heat when frying to avoid burning the chicken before it's cooked.
- Remove sediment from the oil between batches to maintain a nice color on the chicken pops.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cutting and breading. Pat it dry to ensure extra crispiness.
2. How do I store leftover chicken pops?
Store leftover chicken pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or air fryer for best results.
So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and healthy alternative to store-bought chicken nuggets! These crispy chicken pops are sure to become a family favorite, proving that homemade is always better. Enjoy the happy faces (and the happy tummies) at your next mealtime!