When the afternoon cravings strike, there’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a nugget—especially one that fits within my low-carb lifestyle. These Low Carb Chicken Nuggets deliver that irresistible texture and flavor without the guilt of typical fast food. Picture this: golden-brown, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, each bite bursting with savory goodness.

Whether you’re in need of a quick snack, a satisfying protein boost, or planning for a family dinner, these nuggets effortlessly check all the boxes. Made with wholesome ingredients and free from gluten and flour, they cater perfectly to keto and low-carb diets. Plus, they’re quick to whip up and even more fun to customize with your favorite spices and herbs.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your snack game with a healthy twist on a classic favorite, grab your ground chicken and let’s get cooking!

Why are Low Carb Chicken Nuggets a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of Parmesan and spices creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Health-conscious option: With low carbs and high protein, they align perfectly with keto and gluten-free diets.
Versatile servings: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and customize with your favorite sauces.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Even picky eaters will adore these nuggets, making them ideal for family meals. Don’t forget to check out additional tips for delicious low-carb dipping sauces to elevate your serving experience!

Low Carb Chicken Nuggets Ingredients

For the Nugget Mixture
• Ground Chicken – a lean protein that forms the base of these delicious nuggets.
• Eggs – binds the ingredients together, ensuring a perfect texture without flour.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – adds a depth of flavor and ensures a crispy texture.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – enhances moisture and chewiness for a satisfying bite.
• Garlic Powder – brings out the savory notes to elevate your nuggets.
• Onion Powder – adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Paprika – infuses a smoky taste and vibrant color; feel free to add more!
• Salt – essential for balancing the flavors; adjust according to your preference.

For the Coating
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – forms a golden, cheesy crust that adds crunch.
• Potato Starch – provides the necessary crispness without gluten; consider using crushed pork rinds for added flavor!
• Dried Parsley – offers a pop of freshness and makes the nuggets visually appealing.

Cooking Essentials
• Olive Oil Spray – crucial for achieving that desired crunch when baking or air frying.

These Low Carb Chicken Nuggets come together seamlessly, making them the ultimate guilt-free snack or meal!

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Nuggets

Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, eggs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Mix until just blended—don’t overwork the meat!
Shape Nuggets: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small nuggets—aim for about one tablespoon each. This will help them cook evenly and fit perfectly in your bites.
Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, potato starch, dried parsley, and a pinch of paprika. This mixture will provide that crispy outer layer!
Coat Nuggets: Roll each nugget in the coating mixture, ensuring they’re well-covered. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes, helping the coating adhere better.
Bake or Air Fry:
For Baking: Place the nuggets on your prepared baking sheet, spray lightly with olive oil, and bake for 15 minutes. After flipping, bake for another 10 minutes until they’re golden brown.
For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange nuggets in a single layer, spray with olive oil, and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce!

Optional: Serve with garlic aioli or spicy ketchup for an extra flavor kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Low Carb Chicken Nuggets Variations

Elevate your chicken nugget experience and tailor them to your taste buds with these delightful twists!

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for an unforgettable heat that ignites your palate.
Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a vibrant flavor explosion that complements the chicken beautifully.
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the mixture for a rich, melty bite that’s totally indulgent.
Smoky Flavor: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to infuse a depth of flavor, taking your nuggets to a whole new level.
Coconut Flour Coating: For a unique twist, replace potato starch with coconut flour, providing a subtle sweetness and added health benefits.
Zesty Citrus: Grate some lemon or lime zest into the mixture for a refreshing citrus note that brightens every bite.
Pesto Delight: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of your favorite pesto into the nugget mixture for an Italian flair that’s irresistible!
Nutty Crunch: For a gluten-free alternative, coat your nuggets in crushed almonds or pecans, adding a nutty flavor and extra crunch.

Embrace your creativity and enjoy these Low Carb Chicken Nuggets in delicious new ways!

How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Chicken Nuggets

Fridge: Store any leftover Low Carb Chicken Nuggets in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.

Freezer: Cool cooked nuggets completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen nuggets directly from the freezer in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or bake at 425°F (220°C) until heated through.

Tip: For a fresh taste, try sprinkling with a bit of olive oil before reheating to reinvigorate that crispy texture!

Expert Tips for Low Carb Chicken Nuggets

Choose Lean Chicken: Select lean ground chicken to reduce fat and maintain a healthier profile in your Low Carb Chicken Nuggets.
Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix until just blended to avoid tough nuggets; tenderness is key!
Experiment with Coating: For extra crunch, try crushed pork rinds or almond flour in place of potato starch—this adds flavor and texture!
Proper Resting: Allow the coated nuggets to rest for 5 minutes before baking or air frying; this helps the coating stick better.
Nutrition Boost: Customize your Low Carb Chicken Nuggets with different herbs and spices for added nutrition and flavor—consider Italian seasonings or chili flakes!
Storage Savvy: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they’re ready for a quick reheat!

What to Serve with Low Carb Chicken Nuggets?

These delightful bites are not just a snack; they can inspire a beautifully balanced meal to please the whole family.

Garlic Aioli: A fluffy, creamy dip that pairs perfectly by adding a punch of flavor to your crispy nuggets.
Spicy Ketchup: For those who love a little kick, this sweet and spicy condiment makes each bite more exciting.
Crispy Green Salad: Packed with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette, this adds a crunchy contrast to the tender nuggets.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, they provide a colorful and nutrient-rich side option that complements the nugget’s savory profile.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative packed with fiber that serves as a light and fluffy base for your nuggets.
Zucchini Fries: Crispy, baked, or air-fried, these fries offer a healthy crunch alongside your chicken nuggets.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, keeping your meal light and invigorating.
Chia Seed Pudding: For a sweet ending, this healthy dessert offers a creamy texture with fruity toppings to round out your meal.

Let your imagination run wild with these pairings; each side dish is crafted to highlight the flavors and texture of your Low Carb Chicken Nuggets while creating a fulfilling dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Low Carb Chicken Nuggets are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week with ease! You can prepare the nugget mixture, shape the nuggets, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply mix the ground chicken, eggs, Parmesan, and spices, then form them into nuggets, placing them in an airtight container. For the coating, you can mix the Parmesan and potato starch in advance as well. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake or air fry as directed, and you’ll have delicious, crispy nuggets on the table in no time! This way, your busy weeknights just became a whole lot easier!

Low Carb Chicken Nuggets Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ground chicken?
Choose lean ground chicken to keep your nuggets healthy! Look for meat that has minimal visible fat and is a light pink color. Avoid ground chicken with dark spots, as they can indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover Low Carb Chicken Nuggets?
Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.

Can I freeze Low Carb Chicken Nuggets?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cool the cooked nuggets completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheating directly from frozen is best—air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or bake at 425°F (220°C) until heated through.

What can I do if my nuggets stick to the baking sheet?
If you find your nuggets sticking, make sure you use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. You can also spray the baking sheet with olive oil to create a non-stick surface. If you’re air frying, ensure they are spaced out adequately and not touching!

Are there any allergy concerns with these nuggets?
This recipe is gluten-free, but always check the packaging for cross-contamination if you have a gluten allergy. For dairy allergies, consider substituting nutritional yeast for the cheese components.

Can I customize the flavors of my Low Carb Chicken Nuggets?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the nugget mixture or coating. Adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate it to your taste preferences instantly. The more the merrier!