canned chicken nuggets

These keto canned chicken nuggets are the perfect solution. Crispy, flavorful, and packed with protein, they offer a satisfying snack or quick meal without the carbs. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe will become a regular in your meal rotation.

Why We Love These Keto Canned Chicken Nuggets

There’s so much to love about this recipe that it’s hard to know where to start.

• Quick and hassle-free: Using canned chicken means you skip the cooking and shredding steps, saving valuable time.
• Low in carbs, high in protein: Each nugget is packed with the nutrients you need to stay full and energized, without the carb crash.
• Customizable flavors: You can tweak the seasoning to your liking, making this recipe versatile for all taste buds.
• Meal prep-friendly: These nuggets are easy to make in large batches and store for later, ensuring you always have a snack or meal on hand.
• Kid-approved: Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist the crispy, cheesy goodness of these nuggets.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an appetizer for a gathering, or a simple dinner idea, these nuggets check all the boxes.

Ingredients for the Best Keto Canned Chicken Nuggets

To make these nuggets, you’ll need the following:

• 1 can (12.5 oz) canned chicken (drained thoroughly)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Avocado oil or olive oil spray for frying or baking

These pantry staples come together beautifully to create nuggets that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan not only binds the nuggets but also adds a cheesy depth of flavor that you’ll love.

How to Make Keto Canned Chicken Nuggets

Making these nuggets is straightforward, even if you’re not an experienced cook. Follow these detailed steps to ensure they come out perfect every time:

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Start by draining the canned chicken thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the nuggets fall apart, so use a paper towel to press out any remaining liquid. Shred the chicken finely with a fork or pulse it in a food processor for a smoother texture.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, egg, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, almond flour, and seasonings. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive dough-like mixture.

2. Shape the Nuggets

Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Flatten it slightly to form a nugget shape. Continue shaping the mixture until it’s all used up.

3. Cook the Nuggets

You can choose to fry or bake your nuggets, depending on your preference:

• Frying: Heat a skillet with avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the nuggets in small batches. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the nuggets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the nuggets evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp.

4. Cool and Serve

Allow the nuggets to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Perfect Nuggets

Even the simplest recipes can be elevated with a few expert tips. Here’s how to make sure your nuggets turn out amazing every time:

Drain, drain, drain: Properly draining the canned chicken is key to achieving the right texture. Too much moisture can lead to soggy nuggets.

Chill the mixture: If your mixture feels sticky or hard to handle, refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes. This firms it up and makes shaping easier.

Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying, cook in small batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and can make the nuggets greasy.

Use parchment paper for baking: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Experiment with spices: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a herby twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To save you from frustration, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: The chicken is mild on its own, so the right blend of spices is essential for flavor.

Using too much oil: When frying, too much oil can make the nuggets greasy. A light coat is all you need.

Overmixing: Stir the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the nuggets dense and tough.

Forgetting to flip when baking: Flipping the nuggets halfway ensures they crisp up evenly on both sides.

Serving Suggestions

One of the greatest things about these keto-canned chicken nuggets is their versatility. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner, a game-day snack, or a quick and satisfying lunch, these nuggets can easily adapt to the occasion. Here’s how you can elevate them to suit your meal plans:

Dip Heaven: Pair these crispy canned chicken nuggets with keto-friendly sauces to take their flavor to the next level. Creamy ranch dressing adds a cool, tangy element, sugar-free barbecue sauce brings a smoky sweetness, and garlic aioli provides a rich, indulgent touch. You can even experiment with spicy options like chipotle mayo or jalapeño cheese dip for those who love a kick.

Low-Carb Wraps: Transform your canned chicken nuggets into a wholesome meal by wrapping them in a low-carb tortilla along with fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. This makes for a portable and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick grab-and-go solution.

Flavorful Sides: Serve the canned chicken nuggets with hearty, keto-approved sides to create a well-rounded meal. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts bring a savory balance to the dish. Alternatively, a refreshing cucumber salad with a splash of lemon juice and olive oil offers a light and zesty complement to the crispy nuggets.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to get creative and add a twist to your keto-canned chicken nuggets, here are some exciting variations that will elevate your nuggets to new flavor heights:

Buffalo Nuggets: For those who love a little heat, toss your cooked canned chicken nuggets in a mixture of melted butter and your favorite hot sauce. The result? A fiery, tangy flavor that mimics the classic Buffalo wing taste. Serve these with a side of creamy ranch dressing or blue cheese dip to balance the spice and create the ultimate keto-friendly indulgence.

Cheddar-Stuffed Nuggets: Imagine biting into a crispy nugget only to find a gooey, melted center of sharp cheddar cheese. To create this delightful surprise, simply add a small cube of cheddar cheese to the center of each nugget before cooking. As the canned chicken nuggets bake or fry, the cheese melts perfectly, adding richness and a satisfying cheesy burst with every bite.

Herb-Infused Nuggets: Fresh herbs are a great way to introduce new flavors to your dish. Try mixing finely chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil into the chicken mixture before forming your nuggets. The herbs will infuse the canned chicken nuggets with a burst of freshness and brightness, perfect for a light, refreshing alternative to the traditional nugget flavor.

Parmesan-Crusted Nuggets: If you love extra crispy exteriors, this variation is for you. Coat your canned chicken nuggets in a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese before frying or baking. The cheese will create a golden, crunchy crust that adds a savory, umami-packed flavor to the nuggets. It’s the perfect way to make your keto canned chicken nuggets even more irresistible.

More Chicken recipes you will love!

Smoked boneless chicken thighs

Pulehu chicken

smothered chicken texas roadhouse

FAQ: All About Canned Chicken Nuggets

Here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your canned chicken nuggets:

Canned chicken nuggets

These Keto Canned Chicken Nuggets are a quick and easy snack or meal, perfect for those on a keto diet. Made with canned chicken, cheese, and almond flour, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. With customizable flavors and meal prep-friendly, these nuggets are a go-to option for anyone craving a low-carb, high-protein treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Cuisine American

Ingredients

  

• 1 can 12.5 oz canned chicken (drained thoroughly)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional, for added flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Avocado oil or olive oil spray for frying or baking

Instructions

 

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

• Drain the canned chicken thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Use a paper towel to press out any remaining liquid.
• Shred the chicken finely with a fork or pulse it in a food processor for a smoother texture.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, egg, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive dough-like mixture.

Shape the Nuggets

• Scoop about a tablespoon of the chicken mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands.
• Flatten it slightly to form a nugget shape.
• Continue shaping the mixture until all the nuggets are formed.

Cook the Nuggets

• Frying Method:
• Heat a skillet with avocado oil over medium heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add the nuggets in small batches.
• Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the nuggets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Baking Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange the nuggets evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Spray them lightly with olive oil.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Cool and Serve

• Let the nuggets cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce and enjoy!