Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a delicious and healthy snack that pleases everyone from kids to adults, look no further! These healthy baked chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or just a simple weekday meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- These nuggets are lower in fat compared to fried versions, making them a healthier choice.
- They are super easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prepping and can be stored for future meals.
- Kid-friendly taste that will win over even the pickiest eaters.
- Baked to perfection for that satisfying crunch without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray
Directions
Prepare Your Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized nugget pieces, aiming for uniform sizes for even cooking.
Set Up Your Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk together the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake to Perfection
Place the breaded chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking. Check out this guide on preheating ovens.
- For extra crispiness, place a wire rack on the baking tray to allow air circulation under the nuggets.
- Pair these nuggets with a homemade dipping sauce like homemade ketchup.
Variations
- Spicy Nuggets: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Two mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cooking spray
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze these nuggets for up to 3 months. For best results, reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these healthy baked chicken nuggets with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. Dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce also complement these nuggets well.
Pro Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for an hour before breading. Learn more about buttermilk marination.
- Cut chicken into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before baking to help the coating adhere better.
FAQ
- Q: Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare and bread the chicken, then store in the fridge for up to a day before baking. - Q: How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier nugget, but cooking time may vary slightly.