Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets
When I first decided to make Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets, I was looking for a fun way to sneak some veggies into my kids’ meals. You know how tricky it can be getting them to eat their greens! This recipe has become a family favorite, transforming ordinary chicken into crispy, flavorful nuggets that are not only delicious but also packed with the goodness of zucchini. The first time I served these, they disappeared so quickly that I barely had a chance to sit down at the table. Watching my kids devour these nuggets gave me a sense of satisfaction and relief—I had finally found a way to make vegetables appealing!
The process is simple, and it allows for a bit of creativity. Whether you’re hosting a playdate or just want a tasty dinner option, these nuggets are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; you can serve them with various dipping sauces or alongside a fresh salad. I always get excited about sharing meals that bring everyone to the table, and Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets is one of those dishes that creates happy memories.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious recipe that your whole family will love, give these nuggets a try. They’re not just tasty; they’re also a fun way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
320 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Grater, Oven, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl
The Magic of This Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets
Healthier Alternative
One of the best things about Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets is that they provide a healthier alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. By using zucchini, you’re not only adding moisture and flavor but also increasing the nutritional value of the dish. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins, making these nuggets a guilt-free option for snacking.
Kid-Friendly Fun
If you have little ones at home, they’ll love helping out in the kitchen. The process of dredging the chicken in the buttermilk and coating it with the crunchy mixture is not only easy but fun! It’s a great way to engage them in cooking while teaching them about healthy eating habits.
Perfectly Crunchy Texture
The combination of crushed cornflakes and ground almonds creates a wonderfully crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside. This delightful texture is what makes biting into a nugget so satisfying. You’ll find yourself craving these nuggets long after they’re gone!
Versatile Dipping Options
Whether you prefer spicy, tangy, or sweet, the Spicy Basil Ketchup served alongside these nuggets is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the sauce to suit your taste. Try it with your favorite dipping sauce, or mix it up with some honey mustard or barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Quick and Easy Meal
With a prep time of just ten minutes and a cooking time of twenty minutes, Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. You can whip them up quickly and still have time to enjoy dinner with your family.
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re looking to meal prep for the week, these nuggets freeze beautifully. Just make a larger batch, and you’ll have ready-to-go meals that you can pop in the oven on those busy days when cooking feels like a chore.
Recipe Ingredients for Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets
Using wholesome ingredients is key to making Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets a hit in your home. The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the zucchini, which adds moisture and a subtle flavor. Paired with tender chicken and a crunchy coating, these nuggets provide the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless chicken tenderloins, cut into nugget-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup finely grated zucchini, squeezed dry with a paper towel
- 2 cups cornflakes, finely crushed
- ¼ cup cornmeal
- ¼ cup ground almonds
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- Spicy Basil Ketchup:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
The Process for Making Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets
Making Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets is an enjoyable process that results in a delicious meal. Let’s dive into the steps that will take you from raw ingredients to crispy goodness.
To start, we’re going to make the Spicy Basil Ketchup. In a bowl, combine the ketchup and sweet chili sauce. Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil until well mixed. This sauce is incredibly easy to whip up and can be served immediately. Set it aside for later.
Next, preheat your oven to 200C/400F. Line a baking sheet with foil and brush it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures that your nuggets will come out crispy and not stuck to the pan.
In a large bowl, add the chicken tenderloins and pour the buttermilk over them. Mix it all together, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the coating.
Now, grate the zucchini and then use a paper towel or dish towel to pat it dry. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture, ensuring the nuggets remain crispy once baked.
In another bowl, combine the grated zucchini, crushed cornflakes, cornmeal, ground almonds, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined for that perfect crunchy coating.
Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Then dredge each piece through the crunchy mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. This step is critical for achieving that crispy bite.
Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between them for even baking. Brush each nugget with a little olive oil for that lovely golden color.
Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. After this time, gently flip each nugget, and spray the other side with a bit of oil, then bake for another 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and crispy.
Finally, serve your delicious Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets with the Spicy Basil Ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh zucchini and chicken to enhance the flavor and texture of your nuggets.
- Don’t Rush the Coating: Allow the chicken to soak in buttermilk for a few minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the nuggets as baking times may vary based on your oven.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a bit of garlic powder or onion powder can elevate the flavor!
Ways to Customize
Customization is a wonderful aspect of cooking, and Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets are no exception. Here are some ways you can tweak this recipe to make it your own:
- Storage: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked nuggets on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: Serve these nuggets with a side of fresh veggies or a colorful salad for a complete meal.
- Flavor Additions: Add different herbs and spices to the coating for unique flavors. Try adding Italian herbs or a dash of curry powder!
- Dip Variations: Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or even sriracha for a kick!
Perfect Matches for Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets
- Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Mashed Potatoes: Pair these nuggets with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a nice crunch and balance to the dish.
- Lunch Box Idea: These nuggets are fantastic in lunch boxes—just pack them with some fresh fruits!
- Picnic Friendly: They make a great addition to any picnic spread!
- Game Day Snack: Perfect for gatherings, just prepare a big batch and serve with assorted dips.
FAQ
Conclusion
The unique combination of flavors and textures in Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets makes this recipe special. They’re not only a fun and healthy way to enjoy chicken, but they also provide an opportunity to incorporate vegetables into your meals. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household too!
Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To start, we’re going to make the Spicy Basil Ketchup. In a bowl, combine the ketchup and sweet chili sauce. Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil until well mixed. This sauce is incredibly easy to whip up and can be served immediately. Set it aside for later.
- Next, preheat your oven to 200C/400F. Line a baking sheet with foil and brush it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures that your nuggets will come out crispy and not stuck to the pan.
- In a large bowl, add the chicken tenderloins and pour the buttermilk over them. Mix it all together, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the coating.
- Now, grate the zucchini and then use a paper towel or dish towel to pat it dry. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture, ensuring the nuggets remain crispy once baked.
- In another bowl, combine the grated zucchini, crushed cornflakes, cornmeal, ground almonds, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined for that perfect crunchy coating.
- Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Then dredge each piece through the crunchy mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. This step is critical for achieving that crispy bite.
- Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between them for even baking. Brush each nugget with a little olive oil for that lovely golden color.
- Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. After this time, gently flip each nugget, and spray the other side with a bit of oil, then bake for another 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and crispy.
- Finally, serve your delicious Chicken and Zucchini Nuggets with the Spicy Basil Ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!
