Baked Chicken Nuggets

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy chicken nugget, and when it comes to the Baked Chicken Nuggets, you’re not just indulging in a treat; you’re making a wholesome choice. My kids adore these nuggets, and whenever I prepare them, the house is filled with delightful smells that bring everyone running to the kitchen. I remember the first time I made these; I was looking for a healthier alternative to the fried versions that often leave me feeling sluggish. The moment my family took their first bite, I knew I had struck gold! The crispy outside paired with the juicy chicken inside and a dip in honey mustard was an instant hit.

These nuggets are not only a fantastic weeknight dinner option, but they also shine during gatherings, playdates, or even as a fun snack for movie nights. The best part? You can easily customize them with your favorite spices or serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. I often find myself experimenting with different flavors, but I always return to the classic honey mustard dip. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy that complements the crunch of the nuggets beautifully.

Whether you choose to enjoy them fresh out of the oven or pack them in lunchboxes, these Baked Chicken Nuggets never disappoint. They offer a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can appreciate. If you haven’t tried making them yet, I encourage you to give them a go. You might just find your new favorite recipe!

Baked Chicken Nuggets Shopping List

When it comes to the philosophy behind the ingredients in the Baked Chicken Nuggets, it’s all about balance. The combination of textures and flavors not only creates a delightful eating experience, but it also ensures that each bite is filled with wholesome goodness. The key players here are the chicken, which serves as the protein base, and the Panko breadcrumbs, providing that essential crunch.

• Panko breadcrumbs – These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, making them the perfect choice for coating your nuggets.
• Parmesan cheese – Finely grated, this cheese adds depth and savory flavor to the coating, enhancing the overall taste of the nuggets.
• Salt – A crucial seasoning that brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Pepper – Adding a touch of heat that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Unsalted butter – Melting this butter before coating the nuggets ensures that they crisp up beautifully in the oven.
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – These are juicy and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for baking into nuggets.
• Honey – This sweet element is used in the dipping sauce, providing a delightful contrast to the savory nuggets.
• Yellow mustard – Adds a zesty kick to the honey mustard sauce.
• Dijon mustard – The tanginess of Dijon enhances the flavor profile of the dipping sauce.

How to Make Baked Chicken Nuggets

Making Baked Chicken Nuggets is a fun and rewarding experience. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends!

1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your nuggets will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is essential for the crispy texture you’re aiming for.
3. In a large, shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix them together well to create a flavorful coating that clings to the chicken.
4. Next, melt the unsalted butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. This should take about 30 seconds on high power. Be careful not to overheat.
5. Now, it’s time to dip! Take each piece of chicken and first immerse it in the melted butter, allowing it to coat the meat fully. This step is crucial as it will help the crumb mixture stick.
6. After that, dip the buttered chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well-covered. Pat the crumbs onto the meat gently for better adherence.
7. Place your coated nuggets onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
8. Sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top of the nuggets for an extra crunchy layer.
9. Bake the nuggets for about 30 to 33 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be cooked through and lightly golden brown. The bottom sides will brown more than the tops, which is perfectly normal.
10. While the nuggets are baking, let’s prepare the honey mustard dipping sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the honey, yellow mustard, and Dijon mustard, whisking until combined. Taste and adjust the balance—add more honey or mustard to suit your preference.
11. Once the nuggets are done baking, serve them warm with your homemade honey mustard sauce. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for four months.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Baked Chicken Nuggets turn out perfect every time!

• Storage: Keep any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing them.
• Freezing: You can freeze the nuggets before baking. Just prepare them, place them on the baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Serve these nuggets with a variety of sides. They go wonderfully with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or even fries.
• Flavor Variations: Think about adding spices like cayenne for a kick or using different types of cheese in the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
• Health Boost: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach or carrots into the breadcrumb mix for an extra nutritional boost.

What to Serve With Baked Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to serving the Baked Chicken Nuggets, the possibilities are endless. Here’s a list of ideas to make your meal complete:

• Fresh Salad: A light, crunchy salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the nuggets.
• Vegetable Sticks: Serve with carrot, celery, or cucumber sticks for a refreshing crunch. Pair them with a yogurt dip for added flavor.
• Fries: Classic fries or sweet potato fries make for a comforting side that kids adore.
• Mac and Cheese: For a hearty meal, serve alongside creamy mac and cheese; it’s a classic favorite!
• Fruit Skewers: Brighten up your plate with colorful fruit skewers. They provide a sweet contrast that pairs nicely with the savory nuggets.
• Dipping Sauces: Besides honey mustard, consider ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy ketchup for variety.
• Occasions: These nuggets can be served at birthday parties, casual dinners, or even as game day snacks.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, remember to store them properly to enjoy them again later; they make a quick and easy meal!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Baked Chicken Nuggets are a game-changer in the world of comfort food, providing a healthy yet delicious option that satisfies cravings without the guilt. They’re perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even as a solo snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it might just become a staple in your home. Enjoy the warmth and joy these nuggets bring to the table!

Baked Chicken Nuggets

The ultimate comfort food, these Baked Chicken Nuggets are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family snack, they're sure to satisfy everyone's cravings. Try them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 390 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Oven
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Pepper
• 0.25 cup Unsalted butter melted
• 1.5 pounds Boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1.5 to 2-inch pieces
• 0.5 cup Honey or to taste
• 0.25 cup Yellow mustard
• 0.25 cup Dijon mustard

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• In a large, shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Salt, and Pepper. Mix them together well to create a flavorful coating.
• Melt the Unsalted butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl, about 30 seconds on high power. Be careful not to overheat.
• Take each piece of chicken and first dip it in the melted butter, allowing it to coat the meat fully.
• Next, dip the buttered chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's well-covered. Pat the crumbs onto the meat gently for better adherence.
• Place your coated nuggets onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
• Sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top of the nuggets for an extra crunchy layer.
• Bake the nuggets for about 30 to 33 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden brown.
• While the nuggets are baking, make your honey mustard dipping sauce by mixing Honey, Yellow mustard, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
• Once the nuggets are done baking, serve them warm with your dipping sauce.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the nuggets before baking for later use.
• Tip 3: Serve with a fresh salad or veggies for a balanced meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add spices to the breadcrumb mixture for variety.
• Tip 5: Incorporate chopped vegetables into the mix for added nutrition.

Keyword Baked Chicken Nuggets, crispy chicken nuggets, Easy Chicken Recipes, Healthy Chicken Nuggets

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!