Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets with Parmesan – Easy Homemade Recipe

Craving a meal that's both kid-friendly and sophisticated enough for adults? Look no further than our Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets with Parmesan.

These nuggets offer the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a golden, crunchy coating infused with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, they're a healthier alternative to fried options without compromising on taste

My daughter has always been a fan of chicken nuggets, and while it's convenient to buy them, I've become concerned about the extra ingredients in many store-bought options. Some frozen nuggets contain additives like polysorbate 80, an emulsifier that may impact nutrient absorption and cause gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, certain products have high levels of added sugars and unhealthy fats, which aren't ideal for a child's diet. Given these factors, I've started exploring homemade alternatives to ensure she enjoys her favorite meal without unnecessary additives.

Also, feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture. Adding herbs like dried basil or oregano can introduce new flavor profiles to your nuggets.

Let’s dive in!

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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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