There’s nothing quite like the anticipation that fills the air while frying up a delicious batch of Fried Turkey Nuggets. As the sizzling sound of turkey meets hot oil, I can’t help but feel a sense of joy and comfort wash over me. This dish has become an easy go-to in my house, transforming ordinary turkey breast into tender, mouthwatering bites that leave everyone wanting more.
After a long week of quick meals and takeout, I was on the hunt for a homemade alternative that would get us excited about dinner again. It was a stroke of genius when I combined the classic flavors of garlic and paprika with a touch of buttermilk for a crispy coating that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. And the best part? You can whip these up in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers.
So if you’re ready to elevate your cooking game and ditch the fast food run, join me in creating these utterly irresistible Fried Turkey Nuggets that are sure to please your family and friends alike!
Why You'll Love This Fried Turkey Nuggets
- These Fried Turkey Nuggets are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
- You’ll be blown away by the burst of flavor from the garlic, paprika, and the delicious honey mustard dipping sauce that takes them to the next level.
- The versatility of this recipe allows you to serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even in a salad, catering to any occasion.
- Their golden brown, crispy exterior is not only mouthwatering but also visually appealing, ensuring that they are a hit at any gathering.
Fried Turkey Nuggets Ingredients
Get ready to create a crispy sensation!
For the Turkey
• 1 lb boneless turkey breast – The star of our Fried Turkey Nuggets, which gives you tender bites.
For the Marinade
• 1 cup buttermilk – Perfect for tenderizing the turkey and adding richness to the coating.
For the Coating
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the crispy shell that everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch – This secret ingredient helps make your nuggets extra crunchy.
• 2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses a delightful savoriness into each bite.
• 2 tsp onion powder – Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of sweetness.
• 2 tsp paprika – Provides depth and a beautiful color to the coating.
• 1 tsp salt – A must for elevating all the flavors in your Fried Turkey Nuggets.
• 1 tsp black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the mix.
For Frying
• Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil) – Choose your favorite for achieving that golden, crispy texture.
For the Dipping Sauce
• 1/4 cup honey – Offers a touch of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory nuggets.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – Gives a tangy contrast that will keep you dipping for more!
How to Make Fried Turkey Nuggets
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Cut the turkey breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. Place them in a bowl and marinate in buttermilk for at least one hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.
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Mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This seasoned blend will create a deliciously crispy coating on your nuggets.
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Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). You want the oil hot enough to achieve that perfect golden color, so use a thermometer for accuracy.
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Remove the turkey from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. Coat each piece in the dry mixture, ensuring an even coverage for maximum crunch.
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Fry the turkey in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and deliciously crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.
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Drain the cooked nuggets on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them hot, alongside a vibrant honey mustard sauce for dipping!
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Fried Turkey Nuggets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the turkey in buttermilk up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse while keeping the meat tender. Additionally, you can combine the dry coating ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to fry, simply retrieve the marinated turkey, coat it in the mixture, and fry them fresh for that crispy texture. To maintain quality, make sure to refrigerate the turkey properly and fry in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. Just follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy delicious Fried Turkey Nuggets with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Fried Turkey Nuggets
Fridge: Store leftover Fried Turkey Nuggets in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the nuggets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving them out for more than 2 hours to maintain quality and prevent any food safety issues.
What to Serve with Fried Turkey Nuggets?
Bring your meal to life with delightful sides and drinks that complement these crispy bites!
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Crispy French Fries: These golden fries add that classic comfort feel and balance the crunchy texture of the nuggets beautifully.
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Coleslaw: A zesty, fresh coleslaw provides a crisp and tangy contrast, cutting through the richness of the fried turkey for a refreshing bite.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn enhances the meal’s comfort factor, making it a delightful match for both kids and adults alike.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavors of garlic bread meld perfectly, turning your dinner into a cozy experience filled with hearty satisfaction.
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Garden Salad: A light and refreshing garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette introduces a burst of freshness and color to your plate.
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Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: For those who love to double down on flavors, serving extra honey mustard elevates each nugget, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Pair with a chilled lemonade or refreshing iced tea for a wonderfully balancing sweetness that complements the savory nuggets.
These pairings will not only enhance your dining experience but also transform any meal into a joyous occasion!
Fried Turkey Nuggets Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delicious nuggets to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tsp of cayenne pepper to the dry mixture for a fiery twist. The heat enhances the savory flavor of the nuggets, making them a fun option for spice lovers.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in 1-2 tbsp of dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breading for an aromatic lift. This will give your nuggets a delightful flavor profile that’s perfect for herb enthusiasts.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend, and use cornstarch or potato starch exclusively. You’ll still enjoy that crunchy texture without the gluten.
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Baked Option: For a healthier twist, spray the coated turkey pieces with olive oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes. You’ll get crispy, guilt-free nuggets that are just as satisfying!
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the dry mixture for a cheesy crust. This makes for an irresistible, savory bite with every nugget.
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Asian Flair: Use sesame oil for frying and add 2 tbsp of soy sauce to the buttermilk marinade. The flavor will transport you to a whole new culinary world!
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Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of a lemon or lime to the breading for a refreshing burst. This adds a zesty brightness that complements the turkey beautifully.
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Double Dipping: For an extra crunch, dip the coated nuggets back into buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again. This double dip method results in an ultra-crispy coating that’s simply delectable!
Embrace the possibilities, and let your taste adventures begin!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Fried Turkey Nuggets, ensure the turkey pieces are cut uniformly to guarantee even cooking and crispiness.
- A common mistake is not allowing enough time for the buttermilk marinade, which softens the meat and enhances flavor, so aim for at least an hour.
- For the coating, mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumps and ensure an even distribution of seasoning.
- Always monitor the oil temperature with a thermometer, keeping it around 350°F (175°C) to achieve that perfect golden brown crust without absorbing excess oil.
Fried Turkey Nuggets Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best turkey breast for Fried Turkey Nuggets?
Absolutely! When selecting a boneless turkey breast, look for pieces with a light pink color and no dark spots. The meat should be firm to the touch and have a fresh scent. Avoid any turkey that appears discolored or has a strong odor. Always check the sell-by date to ensure optimal freshness!
How should I store leftover Fried Turkey Nuggets?
Very important! Store your leftover Fried Turkey Nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, which can last for up to 2 months.
Can Fried Turkey Nuggets be frozen? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Fried Turkey Nuggets, first let them cool to room temperature. Then, place the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until they’re firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date, and they’ll stay good for up to 2 months! When ready to enjoy, cook them directly from the freezer or thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
What if my Fried Turkey Nuggets turn out soggy instead of crispy?
If your nuggets aren’t as crispy as you’d like, it could be due to a few factors. Ensure that your oil is hot enough, ideally at 350°F (175°C), before adding the turkey. Fry in small batches to avoid dropping the oil temperature too much. Lastly, let the fried nuggets drain on paper towels to rid them of excess oil, enhancing that crunchy finish. If they still don’t meet your crispy expectations, consider increasing the cornstarch in the coating mixture next time for added crunch!
Are Fried Turkey Nuggets suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Very much so! To make these Fried Turkey Nuggets gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum. Always double-check labels for any hidden gluten in your additional ingredients, such as the Dijon mustard!
Fried Turkey Nuggets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the turkey breast into bite-sized pieces. Marinate in buttermilk for at least one hour.
- Mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the turkey from the buttermilk and coat each piece in the dry mixture.
- Fry the turkey in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with dipping sauce.
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