Parmesan Chicken Bites

I am a huge fan of Chick Fil-A because well, there chicken nuggets are just incredible! Seriously they are, if you have eaten there then you know what I am talking about. They have to be the juiciest chicken nuggets in existence, but unfortunately I can't afford to eat there that often. You see feeding a family of 7 is rather costly at home let alone when going out to eat. When we take our entire family out for fast food it will cost us up to $40 or more, depending on what we let our children order.

So, that leaves me to find alternatives. The recipe I am going to share with you today is just one of those alternatives. Though they are not Chick Fil-A's yummy chicken nuggets they are just as tender, crunchy and juicy!

Now I usually don't fry much food, but for this recipe I made an exception. Of course you can make these in the oven, just make sure to drizzle the chicken with olive oil or cooking spray so that they brown easier.

Parmesan Chicken Bites                                             

5 Chicken Breasts, cubed
3 Cups Panko Italian Bread Crumbs
1 Tbsp. Kosher Salt
1 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese (or you could use a blend of Italian cheeses)
3 Eggs
2 Cups Canola Oil for Frying

In large skillet, I prefer non-stick, preheat oil over medium heat. In one gallon size Ziploc bag beat 3 eggs and set aside, in another gallon size bag place panko bread crumbs, salt and Parmesan cheese and mix together, set aside. You don't have to do this in bags, but it makes for easier clean up. Place about 1/4 of the cubed chicken in eggs, coat then place them in the panko bread crumb bag and shake, make sure chicken is coated well. Once oil is hot, you can test this by sprinkling in a pinch of flour or panko if it bubbles the oil is ready; add chicken one at a time, ensuring to leave space between each piece to allow for better cooking. See photo above. Once chicken is golden brown on one side turn. Each side will probably cook for about 3-4 minutes. If you have an internal thermometer this will make your life easier, just cook the chicken until they reach a temperature of about 160 degrees and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes, which will allow them to come up to the proper serving temperature of 165 degrees. Remove from oil and place on cooling rack with paper towels underneath to catch any residual oil. Repeat until all chicken is cooked.

I like mine with fresh lemon juice, so while they are cooling I squirt fresh lemon juice over the chicken. You don't have to do this, but it does add another layer of flavor!

So, what are you cooking?

"Devouring worlds, one book and recipe at a time."