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Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

These Cheese Chicken Nuggets are a delicious homemade alternative to store-bought nuggets, combining ground chicken with savory cheddar and parmesan cheeses for a crispy, golden-baked treat. Perfect for a quick snack or family meal, they’re baked to perfection with a crunchy panko and parmesan coating.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (20-24 nuggets)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Breading & Coating

  • 3/4-1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Cooking spray (preferably avocado oil spray)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to prepare your nuggets.
  2. Mix Nugget Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup grated parmesan, 1 egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands or gloves to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Prepare Egg Wash: Lightly whisk 1 egg on a separate plate to create an egg wash that will help the breading stick to the nuggets.
  4. Prepare Breading: On another plate or shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese evenly to create the breading mixture.
  5. Form Nuggets and Coat: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and shape it into oval nuggets with your hands, making approximately 20-24 nuggets. Dip each nugget first into the egg wash ensuring it’s lightly coated, then press firmly into the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture to fully coat each nugget.
  6. Arrange and Spray: Place the coated nuggets evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to aid browning and crispiness.
  7. Bake and Flip: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, carefully flip each nugget over, spray the tops again lightly with cooking spray, and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly grated parmesan cheese as it has better flavor and texture than pre-grated versions.
  • You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
  • Ensure the nuggets are evenly coated on all sides for a crispy exterior.
  • If you don’t have avocado oil spray, other neutral cooking sprays or oils can be used.
  • These nuggets freeze well before baking; just bake a few extra minutes if baking from frozen.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat