Easy Homemade Grilled Nuggets
Create restaurant-quality grilled nuggets at home with this simple recipe. Healthier than fried versions with all the signature flavor!
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh is best
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika for extra flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches each. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better.
- In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure each piece is fully coated.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you can plan ahead, marinating for 2-4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will take these nuggets to the next level. You can also cook these in the oven (400°F for 15-20 minutes) or air fryer (375°F for 10-12 minutes) if you don't have access to a grill.