Recipe: Golden Wild Turkey Nuggets

by
posted on November 20, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
recipe-golden-wild-turkey-nuggets_lead.jpg

Wild turkey management has been a positive and good news story across North America. Hunters have been instrumental in supporting conservation efforts to create and maintain new populations. For many of us, turkey hunting is like an obsession, where one just can't get enough. Taking advantage of the spring and fall seasons ensures a steady supply of wild turkeys.

One reason turkey is so popular is due to the way they grace a table. Wild turkey cooked properly is outstanding. It can be challenging to cook, as it tends to dry out quickly. Cooking turkey breast in oil with high heat locks in the moisture and brings out the natural flavors of a wild bird.

Nuggets are a popular way to serve any turkey. A light breading does not detract from the bird's flavor, and most will agree there is significantly more flavor in a wild bird than a store-bought one. 

A variety of dipping sauces can be used to augment flavors without giving up any of that turkey taste. Aubrey D. hot sauces will add some kick and flair to any meal. Check out the hot sauces and dipping sauces to go with the turkey nuggets—order online for shipping across North America.

Ingredients
• 2 boneless, skinless turkey breasts
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 cup corn flour
• 1 Tbsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp seasoning salt (Bearded Butcher Original or Chipotle)
• 1 quart cooking oil (peanut, corn or canola oil)

Wild Turkey Nuggets with French Fries


Directions

1. Trim silver skins and tough connective tissue off turkey breasts and cut the breasts into 1½-inch nuggets. Do not cut smaller pieces, as they will dry out when cooking.

2. Place the turkey nuggets in a large bowl and pour buttermilk over them to cover. Refrigerate overnight (8-24 hours).

3. Combine breadcrumbs, corn flour, and spices in a bag or airtight container.

4. Drain excess buttermilk off turkey nuggets. Place 4 or 6 nuggets at a time in the breadcrumbs and shake until fully coated.

5. Add cooking oil to a 12 to 14-inch Camp Chef cast iron frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch. Preheat cooking oil to 325 to 350°F, or medium-high. Gently place nuggets one at a time in the oil to fill the pan, and cook until they are golden brown, flipping once. The total cooking time will be 4 minutes.

6. Remove nuggets from oil and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess cooking oil. Serve hot with your favorite BBQ or dipping sauces.

The Bearded Butchers, based in Ohio, makes great seasonings and sauces for wild game that are gluten and MSG-free. Their variety pack of seasonings includes Chipotle, Original, Cajun and Hot seasoning blends, which work great to season nuggets and fries.

Latest

Lede250th Anniversary Cases
Lede250th Anniversary Cases

First Look: Eylar X Brownells 250th Anniversary Rifle and Pistol Cases

Eylar has launched its 250th Anniversary rifle case and pistol case, created in partnership with Brownells to celebrate America's 250th anniversary in 2026. Featuring patriotic artwork, tan hard-shell construction and purpose-built foam interiors, the commemorative cases offer firearm owners a distinctive way to protect and transport their gear while honoring a major milestone in American history.

Hardware Review: Spandau RL Bolt Action

Based in Knoxville, Tenn., SDS Arms works with manufacturers worldwide to develop and import some of the finest firearms, many tailored to specific needs. Its latest is the RL bolt-action rifle, manufactured by Spandau. Emulating the famous bolt action of yesteryear, this rifle is capable straight out of the box, and it is compatible with nearly any aftermarket part that fits the Remington Model 700.

Divide Gun Company Launches MTN Lite Ti Suppressor

Divide Gun Company has announced the MTN Lite Ti Suppressor, delivering lightweight sound suppression to backcountry hunters and long-range shooting enthusiasts.

Cartridge Legacies: The .375 H&H Magnum Family Tree

The latest in our mini-series on famous cartridges and the chamberings they spawned. Let's take a look at .375 H&H Magnum!

New for 2026: KJI K-Series Tripods

KJI has launched an all-new K-Series tripod lineup. Replacing the original K-700 and K-800 tripods, the new K-Series represents a complete modernization of KJI's shooting support platform, offering a broader, stronger and more adaptable family of tripods built for hunting, long-range shooting, competition, photography and professional field use.

Hardware Review: Henry H17 Big Boy Deadeye Revolver

Good looks and tough construction go hand in hand with this classically styled, medium-framed wheel gun from Henry.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.