This quick and flavorful lemon pepper chicken nugget recipe transforms simple frozen nuggets into a tangy, buttery dish inspired by classic Atlanta-style lemon pepper chicken. It’s easy, fast, and perfect for busy weeknights or game-day snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes everyday frozen chicken nuggets and elevates them with a vibrant lemon-pepper butter sauce. It requires minimal prep, uses common ingredients, and delivers a punchy, bright flavor. The nuggets come out juicy, zesty, and irresistibly coated in a savory lemon pepper glaze—ready in just minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
16 oz frozen chicken nuggets
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Zest of 1/4 lemon
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne
Directions
Cook the frozen chicken nuggets according to the package directions or in an air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until crisp.
While the nuggets cook, combine the butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, onion powder, ground cayenne, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat.
Heat the mixture until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is hot, stirring to blend all ingredients.
Add the cooked chicken nuggets to the saucepan and toss or stir until each piece is evenly coated in the lemon pepper sauce.
Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: approximately 317 kcal
Variations
Swap the cayenne for paprika to make the dish mild while still adding warmth.
Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweet-and-tangy glaze.
Use homemade chicken bites instead of frozen nuggets for a scratch-made version.
Add extra black pepper for a bolder, sharper finish.
Stir in a teaspoon of fresh parsley or dill for a bright herbal touch.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover lemon pepper chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or in the oven at 375°F for about 8 minutes. Reheating in a microwave is possible but may reduce crispness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chicken nuggets?
Yes, homemade nuggets work perfectly—just cook them first before tossing in the lemon pepper sauce.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and use a larger pan for tossing.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has mild heat from the cayenne. Reduce or omit the cayenne for a non-spicy version.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with nuggets.
What type of chicken nuggets work best?
Any lightly breaded chicken nuggets are great, but choose your preferred brand or homemade option.
How do I make the coating extra lemony?
Increase the zest or add an extra squeeze of lemon at the end.
Can this be made dairy-free?
Use a plant-based butter alternative to create a dairy-free version.
What can I serve with these nuggets?
They pair well with salads, roasted vegetables, rice, or macaroni dishes.
Can I air fry the nuggets with the sauce?
No, the sauce should be added after cooking. Air frying with sauce will prevent crisping.
Conclusion
These fast lemon pepper chicken nuggets take simple ingredients and turn them into an irresistibly bright, buttery, and tangy dish. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for quick meals, parties, or satisfying cravings for classic lemon pepper chicken. Enjoy them fresh and hot for the best experience.
Fast Lemon Pepper Chicken Nuggets are a quick, flavorful upgrade to frozen nuggets, tossed in a buttery lemon-pepper sauce inspired by classic Atlanta flavors. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
16 oz frozen chicken nuggets
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Zest of 1/4 lemon
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne
Instructions
Cook the frozen chicken nuggets according to the package directions or in an air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until crisp.
While the nuggets cook, combine the butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, onion powder, ground cayenne, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat.
Heat the mixture until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is hot, stirring to blend all ingredients.
Add the cooked chicken nuggets to the saucepan and toss or stir until each piece is evenly coated in the lemon pepper sauce.
Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
For a milder version, omit or reduce the cayenne pepper.
