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Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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4.1 from 15 reviews

This recipe features crispy and flavorful baked chicken nuggets made with tender, skinless boneless chicken breasts coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture. The nuggets are baked to perfection, offering a healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing taste or texture. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these baked chicken nuggets are easy to prepare and ideal for family meals.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 large skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)

Breading Mixture

  • 1 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free crumbs for gluten-free version)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 3 teaspoons black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 teaspoons minced thyme
  • 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

Wet Mixture

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk

Finishing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the chicken nuggets.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Fillet the chicken breasts and cut them into 1-2 inch cubes. Set these pieces aside for breading.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, minced thyme, and cayenne pepper. Stir well with a fork until fully blended and set aside.
  4. Whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and milk until thoroughly combined.
  5. Set up baking pan: Prepare a large baking pan where the breaded chicken pieces will be placed after coating.
  6. Bread the chicken: Working in batches, transfer chicken pieces into the milk and egg mixture, coating them thoroughly. Using a slotted spoon, move them into the breadcrumb mixture and gently toss or spoon to coat each piece completely. Transfer the breaded chicken to the baking pan in a single layer.
  7. Repeat breading process: Continue dunking and breading the remaining chicken pieces until all are coated and arranged on the pan in a single layer.
  8. Add olive oil and bake: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the breaded chicken pieces to help them crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked through.
  9. Cool and serve: Allow the baked chicken nuggets to cool for a few minutes before serving them warm.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs and use gluten-free flour.
  • Ensure chicken pieces are evenly coated for maximum crispiness.
  • Check the internal temperature of chicken nuggets to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • For extra crunch, you can spray the nuggets lightly with cooking spray before baking.
  • Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American