Ground Turkey Nuggets Recipe

why make this recipe

This recipe makes crispy, tasty turkey nuggets that kids and adults like. They cook fast in an air fryer and use simple ingredients. They are a lighter choice than fried chicken nuggets but still very satisfying.

introduction

These Ground Turkey Nuggets use ground turkey, spices, eggs, and gluten-free bread crumbs for a crunchy outside and soft inside. For another easy turkey idea, try the ground turkey meatloaf healthy recipe for a family meal.

how to make Ground Turkey Nuggets

You mix the turkey with spices and some crumbs, shape small balls, then coat them in egg and breadcrumbs. Air fry the nuggets until they reach 165°F inside. The steps below show the full process.

Ingredients :

• 1 pound ground turkey (✅ )
• 1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, divided (✅ )
• 1 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, divided (✅ )
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (✅ )
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free bread crumbs, divided
• 2 large eggs, whisked

Directions :

• ⭐️ Blend the ingredients. In a medium-sized bowl, add the ground turkey, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 3 tablespoons of bread crumbs. Mix together using clean hands blending until well mixed.
• Prepare the egg and breadcrumb coating. Add the whisked eggs to one of the shallow bowls and the remaining bread crumbs to the other. Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the bread crumbs. Stir.
• ⭐️ Coat the nuggets. Using a cookie scoop or spoon scoop about 2 tablespoons of ground turkey mixture. Place the ball into the breadcrumb mixture then coat. Coat it in the egg wash then place it back into the breadcrumbs. Form coated nugget into a chicken nugget shape. Place onto air fryer tray. Repeat for all chicken nuggets. Makes 16 large nuggets or 20 smaller-sized nuggets.
• ⭐️ Preheat air fryer then bake. Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Spray chicken nuggets with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 8 minutes. Using a flipper carefully flip nuggets, spray with nonstick cooking spray, then bake an additional 7-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 165°F. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

how to serve Ground Turkey Nuggets

Serve warm with dipping sauces like barbecue, ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch. Add a side of carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or small salad for a full plate. They also work well in a wrap with lettuce and sauce.

how to store Ground Turkey Nuggets

Cool the nuggets to room temperature, then place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place on a tray to flash-freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes from chilled or 10–12 minutes from frozen.

tips to make Ground Turkey Nuggets

• Use cold hands to mix and shape so the meat does not get sticky.
• Do not pack the nuggets too tight; keep them light so they cook evenly.
• Spray the nuggets with oil spray before air frying for a crisp outside.
• Check the internal temp with a meat thermometer to be sure it reaches 165°F.
• If you want smaller nuggets, reduce to 1 tablespoon per nugget and cut cook time slightly.

variation (if any)

• Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan to the meat mix for extra flavor.
• Swap chili powder for smoked paprika for a mild smoky taste.
• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of gluten-free crumbs if you do not need gluten-free.
• Make spicy nuggets by adding 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce to the mix.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
A: Yes. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place nuggets on a lined baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes, flip, then bake another 8–10 minutes until internal temp is 165°F.

Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
A: Yes. Ground chicken works the same way. Keep the same seasoning and cook until the inside reaches 165°F.

Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you use gluten-free bread crumbs. The recipe lists gluten-free bread crumbs as an ingredient.

Q: Can I make the mixture ahead and freeze uncooked?
A: You can form and freeze the coated nuggets on a tray, then bag them once frozen. Cook from frozen and add a few minutes to the cook time.

Q: How do I know when they are done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. Nuggets are safe when they reach 165°F inside. They should also be golden and firm outside.

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