What are Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets?

Gluten-free chicken nuggets are a prepared food consisting of bite-sized chicken pieces covered with a coating of non-wheat and non-soy products. Individuals who are allergic or sensitive to the gluten contained in wheat and soy can generally safely eat gluten-free chicken nuggets. Gluten-free chicken nuggets may be purchased as a pre-cooked food item, or made at home from various recipes.

Traditionally, most chicken nugget recipes call for a baked or fried breading that coats the outside of the meat. In many cases, the bread crumbs used for making the chicken nuggets contain wheat or wheat by-products. Some contain soy products as well. For individuals who have a gluten intolerance, this means having to abstain from consuming such ingredients. In recent times, however, increased awareness of gluten intolerance has led to creation of more gluten-free foods.

A popular food with children and adults for many years, chicken nuggets can now be enjoyed by gluten-intolerant individuals. Gluten-free chicken nuggets may be prepared in one of many ways. Most commonly, a main ingredient used in this recipe is gluten-free all purpose flour. Other ingredients may be used according to taste. Salt, pepper, and spices are typical ingredients used to enhance the flavor. An egg may also be added to the mixture to coat the chicken.

In preparing the gluten-free chicken nuggets, small cut-up pieces or slices of fresh chicken will typically be used. These may be cut into various shapes that children may prefer, or nugget-shaped. Gluten-free chicken nuggets may be baked or fried according to preference.

Some supermarkets offer gluten-free chicken nuggets in the frozen foods section. These foods are generally pre-cooked and frozen. This type of prepared food generally requires preparation in an oven or microwave as directed on the package. Some fresh gluten-free nuggets may also be available in a prepared foods section as well. These are ready to eat and simply need heating for a few minutes in a microwave.

Some people prefer to eat organic food that has been produced without chemicals or hormones. For these people, there are many gluten-free chicken nugget products that are organically grown. In many cases, chicken used for these products does not contain antibiotics of any kind. Typically prepared with natural ingredients such as rice and corn, these are considered safe for consumption by those with gluten intolerance.

Many restaurants also offer a gluten-free menu. Kids meals that consist of gluten-free chicken nuggets may be available on many restaurant menus. When gluten-free products are served at restaurants, food regulations must be strictly followed. This is because cross-contamination of other foods containing gluten may occur if not carefully monitored.