Did you grow up munching on those unforgettable crown-shaped nuggets from Burger King? There’s something about those crispy edges and juicy chicken centers that sparks instant childhood nostalgia. Sadly, they disappeared from restaurant menus, but now you can bring them back with this copycat Burger King Crown Nuggets recipe—right from your own kitchen!
Homemade means better control over quality and flavor, plus you can tailor them to your taste. Whether you crave a fun weeknight dinner or want to surprise your family with a blast from the past, these nuggets deliver the perfect bite every time. Don’t forget to check out more fried-dish inspiration, or explore our sauces category for perfect dips sauce!
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How to make Crown Nuggets
Making these iconic crown-shaped nuggets is easier than you’d expect! You’ll form tender chicken mixture into little crowns using a cookie cutter for that classic look, then double-dip and fry for ultra-crispy results. It’s nostalgic, fun, and oh-so-tasty. Mix up a batch for game day, parties, or a family night in, and watch them disappear fast.
Nutrition facts
Bite-sized delight can be part of a balanced meal when made at home. On average, a serving (about 6 nuggets) contains roughly 250 calories, 14g protein, 13g fat, and 18g carbohydrates. Customize with your preferred breading or baked method for a lighter twist—find more wholesome ideas in our baked-dishes section.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 cup breadcrumbs — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 large eggs — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 tbsp cornstarch — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tsp garlic powder — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tsp onion powder — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tsp paprika — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tsp salt — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/2 tsp black pepper — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- Vegetable oil (for frying) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
Tools you’ll need
- Mixing bowls (for dredging and coating)
- Baking sheet (as a surface for formed nuggets)
- Crown-shaped (or similar) cookie cutter
- Deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed skillet
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken Base: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, a pinch of salt, pepper, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- 2. Shape the Nuggets: Press chicken mixture about ½ inch thick onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Use a crown-shaped cookie cutter to form nuggets. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- 3. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes for flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with cornstarch and extra spices.
- 4. Bread the Nuggets: Dredge each nugget first in flour, then dip in egg, then in breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps.
- 5. Heat the Oil: Pour oil into deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- 6. Fry the Nuggets: Working in batches, fry nuggets 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature).
- 7. Drain and Serve: Remove nuggets with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces!
What to serve with
Drinks:
- Pair these nostalgic nuggets with a chilled soda, iced tea, or a vanilla milkshake. Check out our creative homemade drinks for even more pairing ideas!
Sides:
- Classic French fries, tater tots, or onion rings
- Coleslaw or a crisp garden salad for balance
- Baked sweet potato fries for a flavorful twist
Dips:
- Honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, or classic ketchup
- Try a spicy sriracha mayo or creamy garlic aioli—find more in our sauce category
Variations
- Try ground turkey or plant-based ground for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the breading for a spicy kick.
- Swap breadcrumbs for panko for even more crunch.
- Bake instead of fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes on a wire rack for a healthier version.
- Make mini nuggets for party platters or lunchboxes.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Ground Chicken:
- Shredded cooked chicken (finely chopped)
- Ground turkey or plant-based ground protein
- Bread Crumbs:
- Panko
- Crushed cornflakes or potato chips
- All-purpose Flour:
- Whole wheat flour
- Gluten-free flour blend
- Eggs:
- Buttermilk
- Plant-based egg replacer
- Paprika:
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper (for heat)
- Cornstarch:
- Potato starch
- Rice flour
- Vegetable Oil:
- Canola oil
- Peanut oil
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until fully blended.
Press the chicken mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to about ½ inch thickness. Use a crown-shaped cookie cutter to cut out nuggets.
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with cornstarch and a pinch of paprika.
Dredge each nugget in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Fry nuggets in batches for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
