Fast Lemon Pepper Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Introduction
Fast Lemon Pepper Chicken Nuggets are a quick and flavorful twist on a classic snack. With a zesty lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and spices, these nuggets are perfect for a tasty appetizer or a simple meal any day.
Ingredients
- 16 oz frozen chicken nuggets (see note)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- Zest of 1/4 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the frozen chicken nuggets according to the package directions until they are hot and crispy.
- Step 2: While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, onion powder, ground cayenne, and lemon zest. Stir constantly and cook until the butter is melted and the sauce is heated through.
- Step 3: Toss the cooked chicken nuggets in the lemon pepper sauce until they are fully coated. Transfer the nuggets to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, bake the chicken nuggets in the oven instead of frying before tossing in the sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
Storage
Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to help retain crispiness, avoiding the microwave if possible, as it can make the coating soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen nuggets?
Yes, you can bread and cook fresh chicken pieces and toss them in the lemon pepper sauce for a fresher alternative. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding the sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free chicken nuggets or prepare your own using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Double-check all seasoning labels to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
PrintFast Lemon Pepper Chicken Nuggets Recipe
This Fast Lemon Pepper Chicken Nuggets recipe offers a quick and flavorful twist on classic chicken nuggets. Coated in a zesty lemon pepper butter sauce with hints of garlic, cayenne, and onion powder, these nuggets deliver a tangy, savory bite perfect for a simple snack or meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken Nuggets
- 16 oz frozen chicken nuggets
Lemon Pepper Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- Zest of 1/4 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook Chicken Nuggets: Prepare the frozen chicken nuggets according to the package directions, typically by baking or frying them until crispy and fully heated through.
- Prepare Lemon Pepper Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, onion powder, ground cayenne, and lemon zest. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sauce is heated through, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Toss Nuggets in Sauce: Add the cooked chicken nuggets to the warm lemon pepper sauce. Stir or gently toss until all nuggets are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Serve: Remove the sauced nuggets from the pan and transfer them to a serving dish. Serve immediately and enjoy the tangy, buttery goodness.
Notes
- Use your preferred cooking method for the chicken nuggets as per package instructions (oven baking or frying recommended).
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper quantity depending on your desired heat level.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest add the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- This recipe works great as a quick appetizer or a light meal paired with a salad or vegetables.
Keywords: lemon pepper chicken nuggets, quick chicken nuggets, lemon butter sauce, easy snack, frozen chicken nuggets recipe
