Okay, picture this: Is it when the kids are bouncing off the walls, and you’re staring into the fridge, you can’t help but stare. It’s a Friday night, your kids bounce off. What should I make for dinner? What are the best baked chicken nuggets? I can’t stop sneaking a few off the baking sheet. They’re crispy and juicy. Is it healthier to put a bag in your bag? Think of them as the gourmet, homemade version of your childhood favorite… only way better! If you like crispy chicken but hate the mess of frying, these baked chicken nuggets are a must. Is your new best friend about to become your friend?
What are baked chicken nuggets?
Baked chicken nuggets are, at their heart, bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated in a special coating. What are some good breading recipes that can be baked in the oven instead of being fried? What’s a healthier alternative to chicken nuggets? What are the things we love about fried nuggets? What are some of the best home cooking recipes? The magic lies in the breading and the baking temperature. Is it just about throwing a chicken in the oven? Is it about creating a texture that rivals (and surpasses) the fried version? Plus, you know exactly what’s going into them, which is a huge win in my book.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What’s your favorite baked chicken nugget recipe? First of all, the flavor is insane. We’re talking juicy, tender chicken with a coating that’s perfectly seasoned and irresistibly good. I use a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to give them that special flavor. What are some of the best nug Who is the star of the show? What is the secret ingredient in breadcrumbs? What is your favorite savory note? Secondly, simplicity is a huge win. Is this one of those recipes with a million steps and complicated techniques? What is a simple dredge, quick bake, and BAM! Deliciousness? What is a great dinner idea for busy weeknights? Why do we bake instead of frying? If you’re skipping all that extra oil, and you can use chicken breasts which are generally pretty good. What is the best way to get to the grocery store? What are some of the best baked chicken nuggets? What are some good dipping sauces for honey mustard? ), but they’re also great in wraps, salads or even as a topping for pizza. What are the possibilities? What I love about this recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. My kids beg me to make these, and even the adults can’t get enough. What is the best way to satisfy cravings without feeling guilty?
How do I make Baked Chicken Nuggets?
Quick Overview
How do you make baked chicken nuggets? What are some ways to cub the chicken, dredging it in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and baking it? To golden perfection. How do I get that crispy texture in my oven? Do not overcrowd the pan! We want each nugget to have its own space to crisp up. What is the best way to whip up a batch of soup in under 30 minutes?
Ingredients
For the Chicken: What is the best
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Look for chicken that’s pink and firm, not pale or slimy.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten. This helps the breadcrumbs stick!
For the Breading: What is the
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs. Pankok gives you that extra crispy texture we all crave. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they will not be quite as crispy.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This is my secret ingredient!
• 1 teaspoon paprika. Adds color and a little smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder. A must for that classic nugget taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano. Gives it a little something extra.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt. Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is best!
Optional:
I like to use olive oil cooking spray, but any kind will do.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do you remove a nugget from your hand? I always spray the parchment paper with cooking spray, just to be extra safe.
Step 2: Prepare Breading Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Serve immediately. What are the ingredients for this recipe? Garlic powder, ore Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. What is the magic of seasonings?
Step 3: Set Up Dredging Station
Place the beaten egg in a shallow dish. This is your wet ingredient that helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
How do you dip a cube of chicken into beaten egg? Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture and press firmly to coat all sides. Every nook and cranny is covered with breadcrumbs! What gives you that crispy texture?
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the breaded chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. How do you make sure your veggies aren’t touching each other? If needed, use two baking sheets.
Step 6: Bake
Is the chicken cooked through and the breadcrumbs golden brown? The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). I like to flip the nuggets halfway through baking to ensure they’re evenly browned on all sides.
Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the baked chicken cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the breadcrumbs to set and become even crispier. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
What is the best way to serve it?
Let’s talk about pairings! What are some great baked chicken nuggets?For a Classic Kid-Friendly Meal:Serve them with a side of steamed broccoli or carrot sticks. What are some good ketchup dips? My kids love mac and cheese. What are some good comfort food combos?For a Healthier Option:Pair them with a big salad with olive oil. What are some good side dishes to serve with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus? If you like a heartier meal, add brown rice or quinoa.What is a fun snack?Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce. Is there a recipe for sriracha may What are some good snacks for game day?What are some quick lunches?Make a pita bread with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. What are some good additions to a lunchbox?
How do I bake chicken nuggets?
What are some of the best baked chicken nugget recipes? What are the little things I’ve learned over countless batches that really make a difference?
Chicken Prep:Make sure your chicken is cut into equal pieces. How do you cook a chicken at the same rate? I also like to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before breading it. What are some of the best ways to make breadcrumbs stick to your finger?
What is breading adviceDon’t be afraid to press breadcrumbs into the chicken. What is the best coating for a crisp surface? I also like to toss chicken in breadcrumbs, which helps to prevent my hands from scratching. From getting messy.
Baking Tips: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the chicken in. A hot oven is key to getting that golden brown, crispy exterior. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! If needed, use two baking sheets or bake in batches. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam instead of bake.
Flavor Boosts: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture. Smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a little Italian seasoning can add a unique twist. You can also add a little grated lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
Ingredient Swaps: You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Almond flour can also be used for a lower-carb option. For a vegetarian version, try using firm tofu or cauliflower florets instead of chicken.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, let’s talk about storing and reheating these golden nuggets of goodness!
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving these out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. After that, they start to lose their crispiness and the risk of bacteria growth increases.
Refrigerator Storage: If you have leftover baked chicken nuggets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before you put them in the fridge to prevent them from getting soggy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze these nuggets. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about an hour. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Tips: To reheat refrigerated or frozen baked chicken nuggets, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy. You can also use an air fryer for even crispier results. Just cook them for a few minutes until they’re heated through and golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to recipe for crispy, delicious, and surprisingly easy baked chicken nuggets. These really are a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and I guarantee they’ll become a family favorite in no time. If you’re looking for a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought nuggets, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed! And if you’re a fan of easy and delicious chicken recipes, be sure to check out my other recipes for baked chicken tenders and crispy chicken thighs. Happy baking (or should I say, *nuggeting*)!
Baked Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breast
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 egg Egg
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
- Dip each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumbs.
- Place chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
