Crispy crunchy chicken nuggets with honey mustard

It seems that every kid loves chicken nuggets. This version is sure to please the adults, too. Cashews add extra crunch and richness while a shot of maple syrup deepens the flavour of the honey mustard.

Prep time 15 min

Cook time 20 min

Serves 4

• 75 ml (1/3 c) Dijon mustard
• 20 ml (4 tsp) honey
• 20 ml (4 tsp) maple syrup
• 125 ml (1/2 c) all-purpose flour, divided
• 5 ml (1 tsp) garlic powder
• 5 ml (1 tsp) ground cumin
• 2 ml (1/2 tsp) onion powder
• 2 ml (1/2 tsp) salt
• 1 ml (1/4 tsp) cayenne pepper
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 350 ml (1 1/2 c) cashews, very finely chopped
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g/1 lb), cut into 10 chunks each
• 1 L (4 c) canola oil

1. Preheat the oven to 120°C (250°F).
2. Combine the mustard, honey and syrup in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
3. Combine 50 grams (1/4 cup) of the flour, the garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, salt and cayenne in a shallow bowl; mix well.
4. Place the eggs in a separate shallow bowl.
5. Combine the remaining 50 millilitres (1/4 cup) flour and the cashews in a third shallow bowl.
6. Add the chicken, a few pieces at a time, to the flour and toss to coat. Shake off the excess flour and dip in the eggs to coat. Shake off the excess egg then dip in the cashew mixture to coat. Place on a baking sheet.
7. Pour the oil in a three litre (three quart) pot and heat to 171°C (340°F) on a deep fry thermometer over medium heat. Add the chicken, 10 pieces at a time, and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about four minutes. Transfer to a paper towel–lined baking sheet to drain. Keep warm in the oven. Make sure the oil has returned to temperature before frying the next batch of chicken.
8. Serve with the mustard sauce for dipping.

If you're not a fan of honey mustard, try this: mix together 50 millilitres (1/4 cup) buttermilk, 50 millilitres (1/4 cup) sour cream and 45 grams (three tablespoons) chopped fresh chives. Or use a creamy salad dressing like blue cheese or ranch. Even onion dip will work in a pinch.