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Baked Chicken Nuggets

Baked Chicken Nuggets
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These baked chicken nuggets are a crispy, juicy, and healthier alternative to traditional fried nuggets. Perfect for family dinners, lunchboxes, or snacks, they deliver golden crunch and savory flavor using simple pantry ingredients and baking instead of frying, making them easier and guilt-free to enjoy any time.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Breading

  • 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs (or gluten-free panko for gluten-free version)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Binder and Coating

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces ensuring uniform cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coating adhere better.
  2. Set Up Breading Stations: Place beaten eggs in one bowl for dipping. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create your flavorful coating mix.
  3. Coat the Nuggets: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks well. For extra crunch, you may dip and coat twice.
  4. Arrange and Spray: Place the coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack for even heat circulation. Lightly spray or brush olive oil on top for that golden finish.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Nuggets should be crisp and golden on the outside while juicy inside.

Notes

  • Cut chicken into similarly sized chunks for even cooking.
  • Double coating improves crispiness.
  • Use a wire rack to keep nuggets crispy by allowing air circulation.
  • Leave space between nuggets on the baking tray to avoid steaming.
  • Let nuggets rest a few minutes after baking to set the crust and avoid burns.
  • For gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes.
  • To make spicy, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Dairy-free option: omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken nuggets, healthy chicken nuggets, gluten-free nuggets, crispy chicken nuggets, family-friendly snacks, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/baked-chicken-nuggets/