Experience crunch like never before with The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets! These oven-baked delights are a healthier take on a classic favorite, bringing you that familiar crispy texture without the excess oil. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, standing out for their flavor and texture, which will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Crunch: The panko breadcrumbs give you an irresistible crispy texture that beats any deep-fried variety.
- Health-Friendly: Being baked, these nuggets are significantly lower in calories and fat, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- Flavor Galore: With the perfect blend of spices, each bite is a taste explosion without overwhelming your taste buds.
- Simple Preparation: Easy for anyone to whip up with everyday kitchen tools and ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The wholesome and simple ingredients are what make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets truly shine. Each component plays a vital role, adding to the delightful taste and crunch.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These airy crumbs create that all-important crispy outer layer.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Spices (paprika, onion & garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne): A bold spice mix that elevates the chicken nuggets to a thrilling new taste level.
- Eggs & milk: They act like glue, helping the breadcrumbs cling to the chicken.
- Chicken breast: The star of the dish, offering lean protein and a tender base for our crispy coating.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets. Whether you have dietary restrictions or just feel adventurous, these nuggets are incredibly adaptable.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep the crunch but skip the gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the egg mixture if you crave extra heat.
How to Make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prep the Panko
First, toast those panko breadcrumbs. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet, spritz with olive oil spray, and give them a quick bake until they’re golden. This step ensures maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Spice it Up
To the toasted panko, whisk in the spices: salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne. This blend transforms your nuggets from good to unforgettable.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
In another bowl, mix eggs and milk to create the sticky mixture allowing breadcrumbs to adhere. Line your baking sheet, making sure it’s ready to receive the coated chicken pieces.
Step 4: Coat and Bake
Dip each chicken piece in the egg wash, then fully enrobe it with the spiced panko. Arrange them on the rack, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Bake until cooked through, resulting in nuggets of perfect crunch.
Pro Tips for Making The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Temperature Control: Ensure your oven is preheated entirely to keep the nuggets crisp as they cook evenly.
- Even Coating: Use tongs to thoroughly coat each nugget with breadcrumbs for a uniform crunch.
- Re-spray for Extra Crunch: A final mist of olive oil spray on the nuggets prior to baking enhances their golden finish.
- Wire Rack Magic: Elevating the nuggets on a rack allows hot air to circulate all around, ensuring that perfect crisp on all sides.
How to Serve The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Garnishes
Serve these nuggets with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. It adds a simple yet elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Pair the nuggets with a crisp garden salad or sweet potato fries. They also work beautifully with classic coleslaw or a tangy cucumber dill salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the nuggets in a basket lined with parchment for a rustic feel, or stack them skewer-style with cherry tomatoes and cheese cubes for a fun appetizer twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll stay delicious and ready for a quick reheat snack.
Freezing
If you prefer to make a big batch, these nuggets freeze beautifully! After cooling, lay them single-layer on a baking sheet, freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating
To enjoy again, reheat frozen nuggets in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This method keeps them crispy and delicious, just like fresh!
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier nugget, but remember they may require slightly longer cooking time to ensure doneness.
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What dipping sauces pair well with these nuggets?
These nuggets are very versatile and go wonderfully with bbq sauce, honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha dip.
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Can I make these nuggets dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the almond milk with water or another non-dairy milk alternative of your choice.
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Is there a way to make them even crispier?
A light double-coat in the panko can add extra crunch; just ensure they’re really well coated each time.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, my friend—The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets that are just begging to be tried in every home kitchen. They’re the perfect blend of simplicity and fulfilling flavor, promising smiles and satisfaction with each crunchy bite. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and share the joy of baking deliciously crispy chicken nuggets at home!
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
Description
This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets delivers a healthier take on the classic favorite, achieving perfect crunchiness with a simple baked method. Using panko breadcrumbs and a flavorful spice mix, these nuggets are tender on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside, making them a perfect family-friendly meal or snack option.
Ingredients
Breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Cooking Spray
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
Seasonings
- 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)
Wet 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 Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken nuggets.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet. Spray with nonstick olive oil spray. Bake for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan and bake for an additional 2-4 minutes until golden brown. Keep the oven on.
- Mix Spices: Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl and whisk in salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Set aside.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together eggs and almond milk until combined. Set aside.
- Set Up Baking Rack: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack and generously spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, then use tongs to transfer and toss each into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture for a full coat. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack, spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Bake Nuggets: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken nuggets with nonstick spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let rest briefly if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ, honey mustard, or ketchup.
Notes
- Using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly toasted for maximum crispiness.
- Spraying the tops of the nuggets before baking helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Thoroughly cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 nugget (~35g)
- Calories: 227 kcal
- Sugar: 1.6 g
- Sodium: 540 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: 75 mg
