Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe: Crispy, Easy & Healthy

The Crispiest Baked Chicken Nuggets You’ll Ever Make!

Tired of soggy, greasy chicken nuggets? Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crispy, golden-brown nuggets that are bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to make! This recipe delivers that amazing crunch and savory goodness you crave – all without the fuss of deep frying. Get ready to impress your family (and yourself!) with these irresistible homemade baked chicken nuggets.

Why You’ll Love It

• They are outrageously crispy, thanks to a secret double-coating technique!
• The flavor is perfectly balanced – savory, a little garlicky, and utterly addictive.
• Super easy to prepare, even on busy weeknights.
• They’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Perfect for picky eaters and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these nuggets apart is the double-coating method using panko breadcrumbs. First, the chicken is dipped into a seasoned flour mixture, then a flavorful egg wash, and finally, generously coated with panko breadcrumbs. This creates an incredibly light and crispy crust that’s far superior to any store-bought or single-coated nuggets. The combination of garlic powder and paprika in the flour gives them a depth of flavor that’s absolutely delicious.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow bowl, lightly beat the eggs.
4. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.
5. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
6. Next, dip each floured chicken piece into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Finally, coat each chicken piece generously with panko breadcrumbs, pressing them gently to adhere.
8. Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the nuggets.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
11. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

While these nuggets are delicious on their own, here are some options to elevate them further:

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
• Herbaceous Delight: Mix 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs into the panko breadcrumbs.
• Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the nuggets during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this will prevent the nuggets from crisping properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
• For the crispiest results, make sure to press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken.
• Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure they’re fully cooked.
• For extra golden color, you can broil for the last minute, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko? While you can, panko breadcrumbs will give you a much crispier result. Regular breadcrumbs tend to get soggy.
• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the nuggets up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge for a few hours. Bake them as directed when ready.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
• Can I substitute chicken tenders for chicken breasts? Absolutely! Chicken tenders work great and may even require a shorter baking time.
• Can I use an air fryer instead of baking them? Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative with your nuggets! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Gluten-Free Nuggets: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko or almond flour.
• Lemon Pepper Nuggets: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon pepper seasoning to the flour mixture.
• BBQ Nuggets: Brush the baked nuggets with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of baking.
• Curry Spiced Nuggets: Add 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder to the flour mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These baked chicken nuggets are fantastic on their own, served with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ketchup, or ranch. They’re also delicious alongside a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or mac and cheese. They are a perfect main course for a family dinner, party appetizer, or even a quick snack.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are a game-changer! They’re incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and offer a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions. We are confident that your family and friends will love them just as much as we do. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your creations with us and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes. 

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• Swiss Chard and Eggs Benedict
• Stuffed Mushrooms

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