18 Spicy Catfish Nugget Recipes Delight

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with our roundup of 18 Spicy Catfish Nugget Recipes Delight! Perfect for home cooks looking for quick, flavorful meals that pack a punch, these recipes are your ticket to turning simple catfish into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you’re craving something crispy, saucy, or downright fiery, we’ve got a dish that’ll make your taste buds dance. Dive in and discover your next favorite meal!

Crispy Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets

Crispy Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets

Get ready to dive into the ultimate comfort food with these Crispy Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets – golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, soak the catfish nuggets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F.
  4. Remove the catfish nuggets from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  5. Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

The secret to these nuggets’ irresistible crunch? The perfect blend of cornmeal and flour in the coating, creating a texture that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of spicy remoulade or hot sauce.

Spicy Cajun Catfish Nuggets

Spicy Cajun Catfish Nuggets

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these Spicy Cajun Catfish Nuggets, a quick and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, soak the catfish nuggets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to 375°F.
  4. Remove catfish from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing to adhere.
  5. Fry nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning once. Drain on paper towels.

The magic of these nuggets lies in their crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior, with just the right kick of heat. Perfect for a lively weeknight meal or game day snack.

Tip: For an extra crispy coating, let the breaded nuggets sit for 5 minutes before frying.

Garlic Butter Catfish Nuggets

Garlic Butter Catfish Nuggets

These Garlic Butter Catfish Nuggets are a crispy, flavorful twist on a Southern classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper. Dredge the catfish nuggets in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  3. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tbsp chopped parsley.
  4. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the fried catfish nuggets and toss gently to coat.

The magic of this recipe lies in the garlic butter sauce, which adds a rich, aromatic depth to the crispy catfish nuggets, making them irresistibly good.

Tip: For an extra crunch, double dredge the nuggets by dipping them in beaten egg after the first flour coating, then back into the flour mixture before frying.

Lemon Pepper Catfish Nuggets

Lemon Pepper Catfish Nuggets

These Lemon Pepper Catfish Nuggets are a crispy, zesty delight that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer, they’re sure to impress with their bold flavors and tender texture.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. In another shallow dish, beat the egg with the milk.
  3. Dip each catfish nugget into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  4. Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
  5. Fry the nuggets in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

The combination of cornmeal and lemon pepper gives these nuggets an irresistible crunch and a bright, peppery kick that’s perfectly balanced by the tender catfish inside.

Tip: For an extra zing, sprinkle a little extra lemon pepper seasoning over the nuggets right after frying.

Smoky BBQ Catfish Nuggets

Smoky BBQ Catfish Nuggets

Get ready to elevate your seafood game with these Smoky BBQ Catfish Nuggets, a perfect blend of Southern charm and smoky sweetness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a shallow bowl, mix together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  2. Toss the catfish nuggets in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated catfish nuggets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
  4. Reduce heat to low and pour 1/2 cup BBQ sauce over the nuggets. Stir gently to coat and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the sauce is slightly thickened and the nuggets are fully cooked.

The magic of these nuggets lies in the smoky paprika and BBQ sauce combo, creating a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful bite that’s irresistibly good.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try using a hickory or mesquite-flavored BBQ sauce.

Herbed Parmesan Catfish Nuggets

Herbed Parmesan Catfish Nuggets

These Herbed Parmesan Catfish Nuggets are a crispy, flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dip each catfish piece into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan mixture.
  4. Place the coated catfish nuggets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden and crispy.

The combination of Parmesan and herbs creates a crust that’s irresistibly crunchy, while the catfish stays tender and flaky inside.

Tip: Serve these nuggets with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Hot Honey Glazed Catfish Nuggets

Hot Honey Glazed Catfish Nuggets

These Hot Honey Glazed Catfish Nuggets are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making them an irresistible weeknight dinner or game-day snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Dredge the catfish nuggets in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the nuggets for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, honey, and melted butter. Brush the mixture over the nuggets.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and the catfish is cooked through.

The magic of this recipe lies in the sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a finger-licking good crust.

Tip: For an extra kick, drizzle a little extra hot sauce over the nuggets before serving.

Blackened Catfish Nuggets with Mango Salsa

Blackened Catfish Nuggets with Mango Salsa

Spice up your dinner routine with these Blackened Catfish Nuggets topped with a fresh Mango Salsa – a perfect blend of heat and sweetness that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss the catfish nuggets in the spice mix until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the catfish nuggets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until blackened and cooked through.
  3. While the catfish cooks, combine the diced mango, 1/4 cup red onion, minced jalapeño, 2 tbsp cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice in a bowl to make the salsa.
  4. Serve the blackened catfish nuggets hot, topped with the mango salsa.

The contrast between the smoky, spicy catfish and the sweet, tangy mango salsa creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. It’s a quick dish that feels gourmet.

Tip: For an extra kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch more cayenne to the spice mix.

Sweet and Sour Catfish Nuggets

Sweet and Sour Catfish Nuggets

These Sweet and Sour Catfish Nuggets are a delightful twist on a classic, offering a perfect balance of tangy and sweet with a crispy exterior that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp ginger powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, toss the catfish nuggets with cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly for 2 minutes.
  4. Add pineapple chunks and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return the catfish nuggets to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
  6. Sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the crispy catfish nuggets enveloped in a glossy, vibrant sauce that’s packed with flavor and texture contrasts.

Tip: For an extra crunch, double coat the catfish nuggets in cornstarch before frying.

Buffalo Style Catfish Nuggets

Buffalo Style Catfish Nuggets

Spice up your dinner routine with these Buffalo Style Catfish Nuggets, a crispy, flavorful twist on a Southern favorite that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
  • Celery sticks, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Dip each catfish nugget into 1/2 cup buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F. Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup hot sauce and 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter. Toss the fried nuggets in the sauce until evenly coated.
  5. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks on the side.

The magic of this recipe lies in the double crunch—first from the golden fry, then from the bold Buffalo sauce that clings to every nook and cranny.

Tip: For an extra crispy coating, let the dredged nuggets sit on a wire rack for 5 minutes before frying.

Asian Glazed Catfish Nuggets

Asian Glazed Catfish Nuggets

These Asian Glazed Catfish Nuggets are a delightful twist on the classic, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory with a crispy exterior that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes to create the glaze.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish nuggets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  3. Pour the glaze over the nuggets in the skillet, stirring gently to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the glaze thickens and coats the fish evenly.
  4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the glaze’s ability to cling to each nugget, creating a glossy, flavor-packed coating that’s irresistible. Serve over rice for a complete meal that’s both quick and satisfying.

Tip: For an extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for a minute before sprinkling over the dish.

Coconut Crusted Catfish Nuggets

Coconut Crusted Catfish Nuggets

These Coconut Crusted Catfish Nuggets bring a tropical twist to your dinner table, offering a crispy, flavorful bite that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
  2. Place the beaten eggs in another shallow dish. In a third dish, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each catfish nugget in the flour mixture, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F. Fry the nuggets in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

The combination of crispy coconut and tender catfish creates a delightful contrast in textures, while the hint of cayenne adds just the right amount of heat.

Tip: For an extra crispy coating, let the coated nuggets sit for 5 minutes before frying.

Jerk Seasoned Catfish Nuggets

Jerk Seasoned Catfish Nuggets

Spice up your dinner routine with these Jerk Seasoned Catfish Nuggets, a quick and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp jerk seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the catfish nuggets with olive oil, jerk seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss until the nuggets are evenly coated.
  3. Spread the seasoned catfish nuggets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

The jerk seasoning gives these catfish nuggets a bold, spicy kick, while the lime juice and cilantro add a fresh, zesty finish that balances the heat perfectly.

Tip: For an extra crispy texture, broil the nuggets for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Old Bay Seasoned Catfish Nuggets

Old Bay Seasoned Catfish Nuggets

These Old Bay Seasoned Catfish Nuggets are a crispy, flavorful twist on a Southern classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. In another shallow dish, whisk together 1 egg and 1/2 cup milk.
  3. Dip each catfish piece first into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the flour mixture.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to 375°F.
  5. Fry the catfish nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

The combination of crispy coating and tender catfish, all spiced up with Old Bay, makes these nuggets irresistibly good. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Tip: For an even crispier texture, let the coated nuggets rest for 5 minutes before frying.

Maple Mustard Glazed Catfish Nuggets

Maple Mustard Glazed Catfish Nuggets

These Maple Mustard Glazed Catfish Nuggets are a sweet and savory twist on a Southern classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels a little special.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well combined.
  3. Toss the catfish nuggets in the maple mustard glaze until evenly coated, then spread them out on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

The magic of this recipe lies in the glaze—it transforms simple catfish into a dish with layers of flavor, from the sweetness of maple to the tang of mustard, all with a hint of smokiness.

Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the nuggets for the last 2 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Curry Spiced Catfish Nuggets

Curry Spiced Catfish Nuggets

These Curry Spiced Catfish Nuggets are a quick and flavorful way to bring a little excitement to your weeknight dinner routine, with a spice blend that’s warm but not overwhelming.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
  2. In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and 1/4 cup milk.
  3. Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
  4. Dredge each catfish piece first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the catfish nuggets in batches for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

The magic of these nuggets lies in the double coating, which ensures each bite is perfectly crunchy on the outside while keeping the catfish tender and flaky inside.

Tip: Serve these nuggets with a side of mango chutney or a simple yogurt dip to complement the curry spices.

Panko Crusted Catfish Nuggets

Panko Crusted Catfish Nuggets

These Panko Crusted Catfish Nuggets are a crispy, flavorful twist on a Southern favorite, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Place the flour in a second shallow dish and the beaten eggs in a third.
  3. Dredge each catfish nugget in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the eggs, then coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

The panko breadcrumbs give these catfish nuggets an extra crunch that’s irresistible, while the simple spice blend adds just the right amount of warmth.

Tip: Serve with a side of tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing.

Chili Lime Catfish Nuggets

Chili Lime Catfish Nuggets

Spice up your dinner routine with these Chili Lime Catfish Nuggets, a zesty and crispy delight that’s sure to please any seafood lover.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
  • Lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
  2. In another bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey.
  3. Dip each catfish nugget into the lime-honey mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  6. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro before serving.

The combination of spicy chili and tangy lime creates a flavor explosion that’s perfectly balanced by the crispy exterior of the catfish.

Tip: For an extra kick, add an additional 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.

Conclusion

With 18 spicy catfish nugget recipes to choose from, there’s something for every taste and occasion! We hope this roundup inspires your next kitchen adventure. Don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious flavors!

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