📖 Instructions

1. Get Started: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, taco seasoning, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, and salt. Really get in there with your hands (clean, of course!) to mix everything until it's all evenly distributed. You want that taco flavor in every single bite, ya know?
2. Shape the Nuggets: Now, grab a small amount of the mixture – about a tablespoon – and form it into a nugget shape. They don't gotta be perfect, just nugget-esque! Place each one on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps 'em from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. Nobody likes scrubbing burnt bits off a pan.
3. Prep for Cooking: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk. In another dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. This is your dredging station. One by one, dip each nugget into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered for maximum crispiness.
4. Choose Your Cooking Method:
5. Frying: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking!), carefully place the nuggets in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd it. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they're golden brown and cooked through. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Because nobody likes a soggy nugget.
6. Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren't touching. You might have to cook them in batches. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy. I tell ya, air fryers are where its at these days!
7. Baking (if you must): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown and cooked through. This method will give you the least crispy results, but hey, its still an option!
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve these bad boys immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, salsa, sour cream, or even a spicy mayo would be awesome. I like to throw 'em in a taco salad sometimes too!
9. Clean Up: Wipe down your counters, put away your ingredients, and admire your handiwork. You just made some killer taco-seasoned nuggets!
10. Don't forget to share these with your friends or family. They'll def appreciate your efforts!