Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. 1. Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Ensuring uniformity in size will help them cook evenly.

1. 1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they are well-coated.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

3. 3. Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.

3. 3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

5. 5. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere properly.

5. 5. Rest the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken pieces on a plate or baking sheet and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating set and results in a crispier texture when cooked.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Nuggets

7. 7. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.

7. 7. Fry the Nuggets: Carefully add the chicken nuggets to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

7. 7. Drain the Nuggets: Once cooked, remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

10. 10. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, honey, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the ingredients are well blended.