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
Units
Scale
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
