Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets

Cut chicken into about 1 to 1 1/2- inch pieces; add to the bowl of a food processor. Add breadcrumbs, salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, and the 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the food processor, and pulse on and off until mixture is finely ground, but not yet a smooth puree.

Scoop 2 tablespoon-sized portions onto a sheet pan, making 24 total. Cover and chill for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, shake self-rising flour and cornstarch together in a bag, and set aside (if using all-purpose flour, add in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda).

Using slightly damp hands, shape each portion into a ball; add 5 to 6 at a time to the flour mixture in the bag. Toss to coat, shake off excess, and place back on the sheet pan. Once coated, form each into the nugget shape of your choice. A ball shape works well for deep frying; if pan-frying, a flat nugget works best.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, or until ready to fry. Nuggets can be made a day ahead. 

While nuggets chill, whisk mayonnaise, honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and Sichuan pepper together in a bowl; cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Deep fry nuggets until no longer pink at the center and golden brown on the outside, about 4 minutes. An instant read thermometer inserted near the center should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C. Alternately, heat oil as needed in a skillet over medium-high heat, and shallow fry until cooked as above, 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Transfer cooked nuggets to a mixing bowl, and add half the sliced green onions. Pour in about 1/2 cup sauce, and toss to coat. Extra sauce can be served alongside, or used for other applications—as sandwich spread or as a dip. 

Transfer to a serving platter, top with more Sriracha and remaining green onions. Serve immediately.

John Mitzewich

From the Editor

Nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of  breading ingredients. The actual amount of breading consumed will vary. We have determined the nutritional value of oil for frying based on a retention value of 10% after cooking. The exact amount will vary depending on cooking time and temperature, ingredient density, and specific type of oil used.