Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, and when it comes to satisfying cravings, Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are a true winner. I remember the first time I tried making these at home; my kids were bouncing with excitement, and the anticipation in the air was palpable. These little nuggets are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. I can still picture the delight on my children’s faces as they dunked their crispy bites into tangy ketchup and creamy ranch dressing. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering, these nuggets bring everyone together.

What I love most about Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets is their versatility. You can customize the seasoning to suit your family’s taste or serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. They are also a healthier alternative to fried options, allowing us to indulge without the guilt. The crunchy exterior, achieved by using crispy Panko breadcrumbs, perfectly contrasts with the tender, juicy chicken inside. Every bite is a moment of happiness, making it hard to stop at just one nugget!

As I whip up a batch, I often think back to my childhood, where nuggets were a staple at family dinners. Now, I find joy in sharing this simple yet delicious recipe with my loved ones. It’s a delight to watch them enjoy a homemade meal together. So, let’s dive into making this family favorite that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table!

What Goes Into Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

The ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are simple yet effective, combining to create a dish that’s both delightful and satisfying. The key players here are fresh chicken, hearty Panko breadcrumbs, and a touch of seasoning that elevates these nuggets to a whole new level.

• 1 pound chicken breast (or tenders): This is the star ingredient, providing protein and flavor. Choose tender cuts for the best texture.
• 1 egg (lightly beaten): Acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): This helps create a crispy coating; it can be substituted for gluten-free options if needed.
• 1 1/4 cups Panko breadcrumbs: The secret to achieving that delightful crunch! They create a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and the coating.

Recipe Directions for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

Making Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets is a breeze, and I’m excited to guide you through it step-by-step! Follow along to create your own delicious batch.

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. This temperature is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top, spraying it well with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Take the pound of chicken breast and cut it into bite-size pieces. I find using kitchen shears simplifies this process. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
3. In three shallow bowls, prepare your coating station. In the first bowl, place the flour, in the second, the beaten egg, and in the third, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the salt.
4. Now comes the fun part! Take each piece of chicken, first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. This layer helps the egg stick.
5. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for ensuring that the breadcrumbs adhere well.
6. Finally, roll the chicken in the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they stick. Place the coated pieces onto the prepared wire rack.
7. Once all the chicken pieces are coated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 14 to 15 minutes or until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
8. After baking, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly. They can be served warm or at room temperature.
9. Enjoy your Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or marinara. They’re sure to be a hit!

Recipe Notes about Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets turn out perfectly every time.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: These nuggets freeze well! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair them with fresh veggies, fries, or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Alternate Dipping Sauces: Try spicy mayo, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a twist on traditional condiments.
• Cooking in Batches: If you have a large quantity, bake them in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Perfect Matches for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to serving Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets, there are plenty of delicious options to consider!

• Fresh Veggies: Pairing nuggets with a colorful platter of crispy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber sticks adds a nutritious touch.
• Fries: Traditional fries make a perfect side. Consider sweet potato fries for a healthier option!
• Salads: Serve them on a bed of fresh greens for a lighter meal. Add some avocado and cherry tomatoes for an easy salad.
• Finger Foods: Perfect for parties, serve these nuggets as finger foods with a variety of dips for guests to enjoy.
• Game Day Snacks: These nuggets are a hit at any gathering, making them ideal for game day or family movie nights.
• Seasonal Dishes: During summer, serve them with a refreshing coleslaw or corn on the cob for a backyard barbecue vibe.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets recipe is a fantastic way to bring comfort food to your dining table without the guilt. They’re easy to prepare, delicious, and loved by both kids and adults alike. I encourage you to try making these nuggets at home; you might find them becoming a family favorite just like they are in mine. Enjoy the crunch, the flavor, and the smiles they bring to your loved ones!

Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

The ultimate comfort food, Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are easy to make and perfectly crispy! Enjoy this healthy alternative to fried nuggets that’s packed with flavor. Serve them with your favorite sauces for an easy weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 29 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken breast or tenders
• 1 egg lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
• 1 1/4 cups Panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Equipment

• Oven
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and place a wire rack coated with nonstick spray on a rimmed baking sheet.
2. Cut up the chicken into bite-size pieces. I like to use kitchen shears for this.
3. Place the egg, flour, and breadcrumbs, mixed with the salt, into three shallow bowls.
4. Coat the chicken pieces in the flour, egg, then the breadcrumbs and place onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 14-15 minutes or until completely cooked.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature with ketchup, ranch, or marinara.

Notes

• Coat the wire rack well with nonstick spray: to ensure the breading doesn’t stick.
• Use all-purpose or gluten-free flour: as needed.
• Use Panko bread crumbs: for a crunchier result. Regular ones will work fine, too, but won’t be quite as crunchy.
• Use kitchen shears: to quickly cut up the chicken into smaller pieces.
• To reheat leftovers: place into the oven on a foil-lined baking sheet for 6-8 minutes at 375 degrees F.
• Egg-free: Omit the egg and use ½ cup whole milk instead.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free Panko.

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Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.