Description

These Chicken Donuts are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and shaped like donuts for a fun, kid-friendly take on classic chicken nuggets. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party food — and they pair amazingly with your favorite dipping sauces!

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing
Optional: shredded cheddar for cheesy chicken donuts

For Coating (Optional for Extra Crunch):

1/2 cup flour
1 beaten egg
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a donut pan or mold.
Make the chicken mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, spices, and herbs. Mix until fully combined. If using cheese, fold it in last.
Shape the donuts:
Divide the chicken mixture into equal portions and press into the wells of a donut pan (or shape by hand and form a hole in the middle). Smooth the tops.
Optional coating for extra crunch:
Dredge each shaped donut in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.

Bake or air fry:
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  - Air Fry: Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve:
  Let cool slightly, then serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, or spicy mayo.

Notes

Want it spicy? Add 1 tsp hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken mix.
Great for meal prep — freeze and reheat later in the oven or air fryer.

Use ground turkey as a swap if needed.