When it comes to comfort food that both kids and adults adore, nothing beats The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets. Picture golden-brown, perfectly seasoned nuggets with a satisfying crunch, all without a deep fryer in sight. This recipe brings the magic of a beloved fast-food favorite right to your oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: These nuggets are baked to a gorgeous golden brown, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Healthier Alternative: By baking instead of frying, you enjoy all the deliciousness without the extra oil.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfectly sized for little hands, these nuggets are sure to be a hit with your younger crowd.
- Customizable Spice Level: Add a touch of cayenne for a spicy kick or leave it out for milder palates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of this recipe is in the ingredients, each selected to provide the perfect blend of flavor and texture. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: The key to achieving that irresistible crunch, these Japanese-style breadcrumbs are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Nonstick Olive Oil Cooking Spray: Vital for achieving an even golden crust on your nuggets without adding unnecessary fat.
- Seasoning Mixture: A blend of kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper for a burst of flavor.
- Eggs and Almond Milk: This duo creates the perfect batter to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Cubed into bite-sized pieces, this lean protein is the heart of your nuggets.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets can easily be customized to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the regular panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety to accommodate different dietary requirements.
- Spicy Twist: Add an extra pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for those who like it hot.
How to Make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumbs
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Spread panko breadcrumbs in an even layer on a large baking sheet and lightly spray with nonstick olive oil. Bake for 2-4 minutes until golden brown, giving them a shake halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
Step 2: Whisk the Spices
Transfer your golden breadcrumbs to a bowl and whisk in the seasoning mixture. This blend of spices adds just the right amount of flavor to enhance the nuggets.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Set up your breading station with one bowl for the egg and milk mixture. Dip each chicken cube in the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumbs using tongs for a complete coating. Place them on a wire rack on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 4: Bake and Enjoy
Generously spray the tops with olive oil spray, then bake these delights for 15-20 minutes until they reach that perfect crispy finish and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade comfort food!
Pro Tips for Making The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Optimal Baking Time: For best results, remove the nuggets as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F to keep them juicy and flavorful.
- Even Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with breadcrumbs for maximum crunchiness in every bite.
- Use of Almond Milk: Almond milk not only adds moisture but also a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
- Nonstick Wire Rack: Baking the nuggets on a wire rack ensures even airflow, giving you a uniformly crispy texture.
How to Serve The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Garnishes
Finish these delightful bites with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to add a touch of elegance and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal, or serve alongside sweet potato fries for an added twist of sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these nuggets in small, colorful baskets lined with parchment paper for a charming, casual presentation that’s a hit at parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating them in the oven will help retain their crispiness.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooked nuggets on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months, making them a perfect make-ahead snack.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat frozen nuggets in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F for about 15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier result, and they are just as easy to work with as breast pieces.
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How do I make these nuggets gluten-free?
Just swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, and you’re all set!
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What’s the best way to ensure even browning?
Using a wire rack ensures even cooking and browning, as the air circulates freely around each nugget.
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How can I add more flavor if I skip the cayenne?
You can add extra garlic or onion powder, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest to enhance the flavors without adding heat.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a fun appetizer for friends, The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are bound to impress with their delightful crunch and flavor. Give them a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness!
Print
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: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets offers a healthier, oven-baked alternative to fried nuggets. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chicken bites are seasoned perfectly and coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, making them an irresistible snack or meal for any occasion. Perfectly baked, they require minimal oil and come together quickly, ideal for busy weeknights or weekend treats.
Ingredients
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)
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice)
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet. Spray them generously with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Bake for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan to redistribute, and bake for another 2-4 minutes until golden brown. Keep the oven heated.
- Mix spices: Transfer toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Add salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine and set aside.
- Combine eggs and milk: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and almond milk until fully blended. Set aside.
- Prepare baking setup: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack. Spray the wire rack generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Coat chicken: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Using tongs, transfer each piece to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place coated chicken on the wire rack about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken nuggets with nonstick spray. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
Notes
- Using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs is recommended for gluten-free options.
- The panko breadcrumbs are crucial for achieving a crispy texture—don’t skip this step.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ, honey mustard, or ketchup.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 nugget (approximate, based on total divided by 4 servings)
- Calories: 227 kcal
- Sugar: 1.6 g
- Sodium: 702 mg
- Fat: 4.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 29.2 g
- Cholesterol: 78 mg
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