Description
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.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Add a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop, Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 317
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
