If you’re on a carnivore or keto diet and you miss biting into crispy, juicy chicken nuggets, then this carnivore chicken nuggets recipe is for you. Unlike traditional chicken nuggets that are breaded with flour or breadcrumbs, these are made entirely from animal-based ingredients, making them perfect for those who want to keep things strictly carnivore.
Packed with protein, full of flavor, and fried to crispy perfection, these nuggets are an ideal way to enjoy a comforting treat while staying true to a low-carb, high-protein lifestyle. Whether you need a quick snack, a meal for the whole family, or something to add to your weekly meal prep, these carnivore-friendly nuggets have you covered.
Why You’ll Love These Carnivore Chicken Nuggets
- Pure Carnivore Ingredients: These nuggets are made without any plant-based ingredients or fillers—just meat, eggs, and pork rinds.
- Crispy and Flavorful: Achieving a crispy texture on a carnivore diet can be challenging, but using crushed pork rinds creates a perfect crispy coating.
- Simple and Quick: Made with minimal ingredients, these nuggets are easy to prepare and cook, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients for Carnivore Chicken Nuggets Recipe
For the Nuggets:
- 1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed pork rinds (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional, depending on strictness of carnivore)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds extra crispiness and flavor)
For Cooking:
- Beef tallow, lard, or ghee (for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Carnivore Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks, about 1-2 inches in size. This will allow for even cooking and ensure every nugget has that juicy, tender center.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Station
In one bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In a separate shallow bowl, add the crushed pork rinds, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and extra crunch. Mix the coating ingredients well.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Nuggets
Working in batches, dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll the chicken in the crushed pork rind mixture until evenly covered. The pork rind crumbs will act like breadcrumbs, giving the nuggets a crispy texture when fried.
Step 4: Heat the Fat for Frying
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat beef tallow, lard, or ghee over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough fat to create about a 1/4-inch layer in the pan, which will help achieve that crispy, golden crust. The fat should be hot but not smoking before adding the chicken—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal.
Step 5: Fry the Nuggets
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot fat, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess fat. Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Carnivore Chicken Nuggets
These carnivore chicken nuggets are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Classic Dipping Sauce: Serve with carnivore-friendly dipping sauces like melted ghee, hollandaise, or even a cheese sauce made from heavy cream and grated cheese.
- Simple Sides: Pair with crispy bacon strips or serve alongside a portion of scrambled eggs for a complete, protein-packed meal.
- Carnivore Salad: Serve on a bed of crispy bacon bits and top with crumbled blue cheese for a unique carnivore salad option.
Tips for Perfect Carnivore Chicken Nuggets
- Use Fresh Pork Rinds: Make sure the pork rinds are fresh and crispy before crushing them, as stale pork rinds won’t give you the desired texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the nuggets in batches so that they have enough space to cook evenly and get crispy. Overcrowding lowers the temperature of the fat, leading to soggy nuggets.
- Monitor the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat level. If the fat is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through. Conversely, if the fat isn’t hot enough, the nuggets will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Variations of Carnivore Chicken Nuggets
- Cheesy Chicken Nuggets: Add more grated Parmesan or even cheddar cheese to the pork rind mixture for a cheesy crust that enhances both flavor and texture.
- Spicy Chicken Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper to the pork rind coating for a spicy kick. This is great for those who enjoy a little heat.
- Baked Version: For a healthier version, bake the nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. While they won’t be as crispy as the fried version, this is a good option if you want to avoid frying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great for this recipe and often result in juicier nuggets due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to trim off any excess fat or skin before cutting into pieces.
What’s the best way to crush pork rinds? To crush pork rinds, place them in a zip-lock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into a breadcrumb-like consistency. You can also pulse them in a food processor if you prefer a finer texture.
How do I store leftover nuggets? Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I freeze these chicken nuggets? Yes, these nuggets freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until hot and crispy.
What dipping sauces are carnivore-friendly? If you’re following a strict carnivore diet, consider sauces like melted ghee, bacon grease, or a cheese-based sauce made with heavy cream and cheese. For a less strict version, you could use mustard or sugar-free mayonnaise.
Conclusion
These carnivore chicken nuggets are a tasty, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food. With minimal ingredients and a simple frying method, they offer a crisp, golden crust and juicy interior—everything you want from a nugget, without the carbs.
Perfect for anyone on a carnivore or keto diet, these nuggets are not only delicious but also highly satisfying, making them ideal for family dinners, party appetizers, or even meal prepping for the week.
So next time you’re craving a classic, reach for this carnivore-friendly chicken nugget recipe and enjoy the crispy, juicy, and utterly satisfying results!
