Baked Chicken Nuggets

Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience with these Baked Chicken Nuggets. Crispy, golden-brown on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside – these nuggets are a healthier take on a classic favorite. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they're easy to make and even easier to love. Get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of homemade nuggets without the guilt!

Ingredient Notes:

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: This lean cut of chicken is ideal for making nuggets as it is tender and easy to cut into bite-sized pieces. However, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a slightly juicier texture.

1. Italian breadcrumbs: Italian breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs both work well for coating the chicken. Panko breadcrumbs tend to result in a crispier texture, but you can use whichever type you prefer or have on hand.

2. Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the breadcrumb coating and helps to create a crispy exterior when baked. You can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese or grate it yourself for fresher flavor.

3. Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add depth of flavor to the breadcrumb coating. Adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences or add additional seasonings like dried herbs or spices for extra flavor.

4. Salt and Pepper: Season the breadcrumb mixture and the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. This helps to enhance the overall flavor of the nuggets.

5. Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: Greasing the baking sheet and lightly coating the tops of the nuggets with oil helps them to crisp up in the oven. You can use cooking spray or drizzle olive oil over the nuggets before baking.

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Baked Chicken Nuggets

Yield 4

Author Kim Alexander

Prep time

15 Min

Total time

15 Min

Baked chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version.

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Ingredients

• 2- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use panko for extra crispiness)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each piece of chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it's evenly coated.
4. Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
5. Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. This will help them crisp up in the oven.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
7. Once done, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
8. You can serve these baked chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard. Enjoy your healthier version of a classic favorite!

Notes

1. Even Sizing: Cut the chicken pieces into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This helps prevent smaller pieces from overcooking while waiting for larger ones to cook through.
2. Double Coating: For extra crispy nuggets, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg mixture and breadcrumb mixture twice before baking.
3. Chill Before Baking: After coating the chicken, place it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the coating to adhere better and create a crispier texture when baked.
4. Use a Wire Rack: Placing a wire rack on top of the baking sheet allows air to circulate around the nuggets, resulting in a crispier bottom. It also helps to prevent the nuggets from becoming soggy.
5. Rotate the Pan: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
6. Serve Immediately: Baked chicken nuggets are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while still hot and crispy. If serving later, reheat them briefly in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

165.25

Fat

4.34 g

Sat. Fat

1.53 g

Carbs

11.57 g

Fiber

0.85 g

Net carbs

10.74 g

Sugar

0.92 g

Protein

18.86 g

Sodium

339.57 mg

Cholesterol

50.64 mg

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