Low Sodium Homemade Chicken McNuggets

Recreate the fast food favorite with a healthier twist using these Low Sodium Homemade Chicken McNuggets! Crafted from tender chunks of boneless, skinless chicken breast, each nugget is coated in a flavorful blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and panko breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden crunch—without the added salt. This recipe offers a guilt-free way to enjoy chicken nuggets by air frying or baking instead of deep frying, making it perfect for anyone seeking a heart-healthy alternative without compromising flavor. Ready in just 35 minutes, these nuggets are ideal for busy weeknights or family-friendly meals, and pair beautifully with your favorite low-sodium dipping sauces. Indulge in a wholesome, homemade version of this classic comfort food today!

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breast
• 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup Cornstarch
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 large Egg
• 2 tablespoons Water
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (unsalted if possible)
• 0 as needed Olive oil spray

Directions

Step 1

Cut the chicken breast into nugget-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 3

In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.

Step 4

Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a third bowl.

Step 5

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring it is well-coated, then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.

Step 6

Finally, roll each nugget in the panko breadcrumbs until completely coated.

Step 7

Place the coated nuggets on a plate or tray, ready for cooking.

Step 8

Preheat an air fryer to 400°F (200°C) or set your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.

Step 9

Lightly spray the air fryer basket or a baking sheet with olive oil spray.

Step 10

Arrange the chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the baking sheet without crowding.

Step 11

Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with olive oil spray.

Step 12

Air fry the chicken nuggets for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. For baking, cook for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring to flip halfway.

Step 13

Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 14

Serve warm with your favorite low-sodium dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(731.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1501.9

Total Fat 25.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g
Cholesterol 563.8mg	0%
Sodium 435.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 152.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.6g	0%
Total Sugars 4.4g
Protein 151.0g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 153.0mg	0%
Iron 9.9mg	0%
Potassium 1349.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 15.9%

Protein: 41.9%

Carbs: 42.2%