If you’ve ever craved the delicious crunch of chicken nuggets without the guilt of frying, then The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are your perfect culinary companion. Imagine succulent chicken pieces, perfectly seasoned and wrapped in a delightfully crisp coating, all baked to golden perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Crunch: Achieve that satisfying crispiness without the added fat from frying.
- Simple Ingredients: Common pantry staples come together to create a robust flavor profile.
- Kid-Friendly: These nuggets are a hit with picky eaters, making meal times hassle-free!
- Customizable Spice Levels: Easily adjust the heat to suit your taste with optional cayenne.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets is all about simplicity and flavor. Each ingredient plays its part, ensuring the nuggets come out with a scrumptiously seasoned crunch and tender interior.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These are key for the ultra-crispy coating on your nuggets.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and other seasonings.
- Onion and Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Paprika and Cayenne Pepper: Provides a gentle smokiness and optional kick of heat.
- Eggs and Almond Milk: Helps the breading stick to the chicken pieces.
- Chicken Breast: The star of the show, ensuring a lean yet juicy bite in every nugget.
Variations
Don’t hesitate to play around with the flavors to personalize The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets. Whether you have dietary constraints or just a whim to try something new, this recipe offers tons of flexibility.
- Spicy Nuggets: Increase the cayenne pepper for a hotter kick, or add a dash of chili powder.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular panko with gluten-free panko crumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Use your favorite plant-based milk instead of almond milk.
How to Make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumbs
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Spread the panko breadcrumbs in an even layer on a baking sheet, spritz them lightly with cooking spray, and bake for a few minutes until golden. This ensures your nuggets are crispy from the get-go.
Step 2: Season and Dip
Once your breadcrumbs are golden, transfer them to a bowl and mix with the aromatic blend of spices. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and almond milk. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, followed by the seasoned breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Generously spritz them with more nonstick spray and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
Pro Tips for Making The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Toasting Breadcrumbs: Ensure they are golden before breading to achieve maximum crunch.
- Wire Rack Baking: Elevate the nuggets on a rack to help them cook evenly and stay crispy.
- Double Coating: For extra crispy nuggets, double dip them in breadcrumbs.
- Meat Thermometer: Guarantee perfectly cooked nuggets by reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to Serve The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to these already delightful nuggets.
Side Dishes
Pair these nuggets with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad for a refreshing balance to the savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these nuggets in mini baskets lined with colorful napkins for a fun, restaurant-like presentation, or pile them onto a platter for a casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze the nuggets by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring to a freezer bag for up to three months.
Reheating
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy once again.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be slightly juicier, and you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, ensuring they reach 165°F.
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What if I don’t have a wire rack?
You can bake them directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, but make sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
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How can I make them spicier?
To up the spice level, add a bit more cayenne or include some chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
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Are these nuggets good for meal prep?
Absolutely! These nuggets can be prepared in advance, kept refrigerated, and easily reheated for a quick meal or snack.
Final Thoughts
It’s time to elevate your nugget game with The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets. Fun, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, they’re bound to be a favorite in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try them and see just how simple creating fantastic homemade nuggets can be!
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The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Discover the ultimate crispy baked chicken nuggets recipe that combines flavor, crunch, and healthiness. Perfectly seasoned chicken chunks are coated with toasted panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, making for a delicious and versatile snack or meal option that’s easy to prepare and kids-friendly.
Ingredients
For the Breadcrumb Coating
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice)
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toast Breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs on a large baking sheet. Spray evenly with nonstick olive oil spray. Bake for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan, and bake for an additional 2-4 minutes until golden brown. Keep the oven heat on.
- Prepare Seasoned Breadcrumbs: Transfer toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Whisk in salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Set aside.
- Make Egg Mixture: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until combined. Set aside.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack. Spray generously with nonstick cooking spray.
- Bread Chicken Cubes: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, then use tongs to transfer it into the breadcrumb mixture, coating completely. Place coated chicken on the wire rack about 1 inch apart.
- Coat and Bake: Spray the tops of the chicken nuggets with nonstick spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring crispy golden crust.
Notes
- Using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs is optional but recommended for gluten-free diet.
- To ensure maximum crispiness, do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
- You can serve these nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ, honey mustard, or ketchup.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 3 oz)
- Calories: 227 kcal
- Sugar: 1.6 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 4.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 29.2 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
