Description
Crunchy Baked Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and baked instead of fried. This easy homemade recipe offers a healthier alternative to store-bought nuggets, perfect for a family-friendly lunch or dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
Others
- Cooking spray
- Dipping sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of spices.
- Make Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken pieces.
- Coat Chicken Pieces: Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, making sure it is fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow even cooking and browning.
- Apply Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray to help achieve a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, turning the nuggets halfway through cooking. Bake until the nuggets are golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the nuggets from the oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Panko breadcrumbs give the nuggets extra crunch and a lighter texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- To ensure even browning and crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- You can freeze cooked nuggets; reheat them in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
