If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and deliciously crispy, look no further than The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets! These aren’t your average nuggets—they’re elevated with spices and baked to perfection, ensuring a crunchy exterior and juicy interior every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: The panko breadcrumbs give these chicken nuggets an irresistible crunch that’s hard to beat.
- Healthier Alternative: Since they’re baked and not fried, you get all that delicious taste without the extra oil.
- Flavor Packed: A blend of spices like paprika and cayenne elevates the flavor, ensuring every bite is full of zest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This straightforward and delightful recipe requires a few essential ingredients that work together magically. Each element plays a crucial role in making these chicken nuggets truly exceptional, especially the spices that provide a distinctive kick!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Gives the nuggets their signature crispiness.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Essential for adding a deep, savory taste.
- Almond Milk: Used in the batter to help the breadcrumbs adhere, while keeping it light.
Variations
One of the best things about The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets is how versatile they are. Feel free to experiment with the recipe to better fit your preferences and dietary needs!
- Spicy Variation: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the batter for extra heat.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for a Mediterranean flair.
How to Make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumbs
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly over a large baking sheet and spray with nonstick olive oil. Bake them briefly until they’re golden brown, which helps make them extra crispy.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken
Mix the toasty breadcrumbs with your carefully chosen spices. Dip the chicken cubes into an egg and milk mixture before coating them thoroughly with the spiced breadcrumbs. The marriage of flavors guarantees a finger-licking experience!
Pro Tips for Making The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Toast to Perfection: Toasting the breadcrumbs before coating ensures they remain crispy as the chicken bakes.
- Even Coating: Use tongs to toss the chicken in the breadcrumbs for a uniform layer that won’t disappoint.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your nuggets reach 165 degrees F for the perfect cook.
How to Serve The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Garnishes
Brighten up your chicken nuggets with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro over the top. It adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that’s simply delightful!
Side Dishes
These nuggets pair excellently with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp garden salad. They complement the savory nuggets and provide a wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the nuggets in a charming basket with a side of dipping sauces in small bowls can uplift your dining experience. Present them in a fun and inviting way for both kids and adults!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining much of their original charm.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the chicken nuggets to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and still taste fantastic once reheated.
Reheating
Reheat your nuggets in the oven at 350 degrees F until they’re warmed through. This keeps them crispy, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.
FAQs
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Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead of the regular kind; you won’t miss out on the crunch.
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What’s the best sauce to pair with these nuggets?
Honey mustard or a spicy BBQ sauce works wonderfully, perfectly harmonizing with the spices of the nuggets.
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How can I add more flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of your favorite seasoning blend into the breadcrumb mix; cajun or lemon pepper can add a delicious twist.
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Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs will yield a juicier nugget with a slightly different, richer flavor.
Final Thoughts
Dive into a plate of The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets and experience the joy of a homemade, delicious meal. I can’t wait for you to try them out and discover their crunchy charm for yourself—your taste buds will thank you!
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: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for the BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets offers a delicious and healthier alternative to fried nuggets. Using panko breadcrumbs and a simple baking method, these nuggets turn out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Ideal for a quick family dinner or snacks, they are customizable with your favorite dipping sauces and seasonings.
Ingredients
Breadcrumb Coating
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
- 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)
Egg Wash
- 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: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the nuggets.
- Prepare breadcrumb coating: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet, spray with nonstick olive oil, then bake for 2 minutes. Stir the breadcrumbs and bake for an additional 2-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and transfer to a medium bowl.
- Season breadcrumbs: Add salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs. Mix well and set aside.
- Prepare egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and almond milk until smooth.
- Set up for coating: Line a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray generously with nonstick spray. This allows the chicken to bake evenly and get crispy.
- Coat chicken: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, then use tongs to toss it in the seasoned breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place each coated nugget on the prepared wire rack about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Spray the tops of the nuggets with nonstick spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once if desired, until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs if needed to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels to taste, adding more cayenne for extra heat or herbs for variety.
- Ensure chicken pieces are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ, honey mustard, or ketchup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 nugget (about 50g)
- Calories: 227 kcal
- Sugar: 1.6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 4.7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29.2g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
