Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both irresistibly crispy and surprisingly wholesome, these Baked Chicken Nuggets are about to become your new weeknight go-to. Juicy, tender bites of seasoned chicken are tumbled in a golden, cheesy panko coating and oven-baked until perfectly crunchy—no greasy frying pan required! This crowd-pleasing favorite strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and healthier homemade fare, and it’s just as loved by kids as it is by adults. Whether you’re whipping up a speedy dinner or prepping snacks for a game night, there’s no resisting a platter of these Baked Chicken Nuggets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this recipe is how each simple ingredient serves a purpose! From juicy chicken breast to a savory Parmesan crust, every element brings bold flavor, succulent texture, or a burst of color to the final dish.
- Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for easy cutting and extra-juicy nuggets.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates a dry surface on the chicken so the other coatings stick beautifully.
- Salt: Enhances every layer of flavor, seasoning the chicken from within.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle warmth and depth to the flour coating.
- Large Eggs: The secret to binding everything together for that satisfying crunch.
- Milk: Loosens up the egg wash just enough for smooth, even dipping.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These are the magical crunch-makers—light, airy, and super crispy when baked.
- Parmesan Cheese: Brings a nutty, savory kick and helps the breading turn irresistible golden brown.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic zing that wakes up the whole pan.
- Paprika: For color, gentle smokiness, and a pop of visual appeal.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Ensures the nuggets bake up extra crispy instead of dry.
How to Make Baked Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by getting your oven nice and hot at 400°F—this helps achieve that signature crispy coating. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, then give it a quick mist with cooking spray to prevent sticking and encourage even browning in your Baked Chicken Nuggets.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station
You’ll need three shallow bowls. In the first, whisk together flour, salt, and black pepper. In the second, combine the eggs and milk until smooth. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. This set-up makes it quick and tidy to build the perfect nugget crust!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Pieces
Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces for that classic nugget shape. Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally tumble into the cheesy breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so every surface gets coated. This triple-layered process gives the Baked Chicken Nuggets their iconic crunch!
Step 4: Arrange and Drizzle
Place the coated chicken nuggets onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced out for maximum airflow—this is key for even crispiness. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil or mist them generously with cooking spray, which helps the panko crisp up just like your favorite fried version.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through so both sides get golden and crunchy. Once they’re crisp on the outside and tender inside, your Baked Chicken Nuggets are ready to devour! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Nuggets
Garnishes
A classic sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds color and a touch of freshness to balance the savory, crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets. For a bolder twist, zest a little lemon over the top—you’ll love the pop of brightness it brings!
Side Dishes
Keep things simple with crispy baked fries or roasted sweet potatoes, or go for fresh options like a green salad or cucumber spears. Don’t forget a trio of dipping sauces on the side: creamy ranch, tangy honey mustard, and classic ketchup all pair brilliantly with Baked Chicken Nuggets.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your homemade nuggets into a fun party platter by serving them in mini baskets lined with checkered paper. Skewer a few onto toothpicks for bite-sized party snacks, or tuck them into soft tortillas with slaw and sauce for crowd-pleasing chicken nugget tacos. There are endless ways to transform Baked Chicken Nuggets beyond the basics!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Baked Chicken Nuggets left over (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days and make a great add-on for salads or wraps the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let your baked nuggets cool completely before arranging them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. This way they won’t stick together, and you can grab just what you need for quick meals—perfect for busy nights!
Reheating
Reheat Baked Chicken Nuggets on a baking sheet in a 400°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. The air fryer is another fantastic option; It’ll bring back that just-baked crisp in just a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and even more juiciness. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and cut them into similar-sized pieces so they bake evenly with the rest of your Baked Chicken Nuggets.
Are these Baked Chicken Nuggets gluten-free?
This recipe as written uses regular flour and panko, but you can definitely make it gluten-free by swapping in your favorite gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The results are still perfectly crispy and delicious!
What dipping sauces go best with Baked Chicken Nuggets?
The sky’s the limit! Classic choices are barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch, or even a zesty buffalo dip. For a little variety, try serving several sauces so everyone can mix and match their favorites.
Can I prepare these ahead of time and bake later?
Sure can! You can bread the nuggets in advance and lay them out on your baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to four hours. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready—the coating will stay crisp and fresh.
Do I need to flip the chicken nuggets while baking?
Yes, flipping halfway through is the trick to ensuring an even, golden crust all over every piece. This extra step is well worth it for the perfect Baked Chicken Nuggets experience!
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of an easier, more satisfying homemade treat than a platter of Baked Chicken Nuggets—especially when you know exactly what’s in them! Give this recipe a try and see just how simple it is to enjoy crunchy, flavorful nuggets fresh from your own oven. Trust me, your family will be hooked!
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Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and so much healthier than fried nuggets. They are easy to make and perfect for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Nuggets:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Breadcrumb Coating:
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Additional:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Prepare coating stations: In separate bowls, set up stations for flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumb coating.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken piece in flour, then egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake: Place the coated nuggets on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil or cooking spray, and bake for 18-20 minutes.
- Serve: Serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs.
- These nuggets can be air-fried at 375°F for 12-14 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 nuggets
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
