Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
There’s something absolutely irresistible about a plateful of golden, crunchy chicken nuggets, especially when they’re made fresh at home. This Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe brings everything you love about classic nuggets right into your kitchen, but with a wholesome twist. Juicy chunks of chicken are marinated for maximum flavor, coated in a parmesan-panko crust, and baked until perfectly crisp. Whether you’re making these for a family dinner, a party snack, or a picky eater’s lunch, this recipe is guaranteed to disappear fast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to play a delicious role. From the tenderizing marinade to the crunchy coating, everything works together for that signature bite.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for easy cutting and juicy results.
- Buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice): This not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken for maximum juiciness.
- Garlic powder: A little goes a long way in boosting savory depth.
- Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the marinade.
- Paprika: For a gentle warmth and appetizing golden color.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning every bite just right.
- Black pepper: Lends a mild kick and balances the flavors.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These extra-crispy Japanese-style crumbs are key for that signature crunch.
- Plain breadcrumbs: Combine with panko for the perfect texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty layer to the crust.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Helps the coating crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps with even browning.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Let’s kick things off by soaking the chicken pieces in a flavorful buttermilk bath. This step is the secret to juicy, tender nuggets—combine your chicken with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl or zip-top bag. Mix well, cover, and let the magic happen in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you want to prep ahead. The marinade infuses every bite with flavor and keeps the chicken moist while it bakes.
Step 2: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F so it’s nice and hot. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or use a wire rack for extra airflow underneath. Give the surface a quick mist of nonstick cooking spray—this ensures nothing sticks and the nuggets get evenly crispy.
Step 3: Mix the Crunchy Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil (or melted butter). Stir until everything is moistened and the crumbs start to clump together. This blend is what gives the Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe its signature golden, crunchy exterior.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken pieces, letting any excess marinade drip off. Dredge each piece in your breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating really sticks. Arrange the coated nuggets in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even crisping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through so both sides get beautifully golden. Check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F. For that extra-crispy finish, broil the nuggets for the last 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. Serve hot, and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Lemon wedges on the side are a simple touch that brightens each bite, and a pinch of flaky sea salt can make the flavors really sing.
Side Dishes
Pair your Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe with classic sides like oven-baked fries, sweet potato wedges, or a simple green salad. For a lighter option, try steamed broccoli or a tangy slaw. And don’t forget the dipping sauces—think honey mustard, ranch, spicy ketchup, or a zesty garlic aioli.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn mealtime into an event by serving the nuggets on a platter with an array of dipping sauces in cute little bowls. For parties, skewer the nuggets with toothpicks or serve them in paper cones lined with parchment. You can even build mini nugget sliders with soft buns and your favorite toppings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (it’s rare!), store cooled nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
This Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange uncooked, coated nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cook time—no thawing needed!
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked crunch, reheat leftover nuggets in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. The microwave works in a pinch, though the coating won’t stay as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a fantastic choice for this Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free panko and plain breadcrumbs. Everything else in the recipe stays exactly the same, so you won’t miss out on any flavor or crunch.
Can I skip the marinating step?
For best results, don’t skip the marinating. It’s what keeps the chicken tender and flavorful. If you’re pressed for time, even a quick 15-minute soak will help, but longer is always better!
What dipping sauces go best with these nuggets?
The sky’s the limit! Classic choices include ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or buffalo sauce. For something special, try a homemade garlic aioli or tangy yogurt dip.
Can I make these nuggets in an air fryer?
Yes, you can adapt the Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe for the air fryer. Arrange the coated nuggets in a single layer and air fry at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
If you love the comfort of homemade, family-friendly meals, you’re going to adore this Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and every bite delivers that perfect crunch. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
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Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried nuggets, delivering juicy, tender chicken pieces coated in a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. Perfect for a family-friendly meal or snack, these nuggets are oven-baked to golden perfection and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack, and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the nuggets crisp up.
- Make the breading: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil or melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and slightly moist, which will create a flavorful, crispy crust.
- Coat the chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Place the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake the nuggets: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The nuggets are done when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional crisping step: For extra crispiness, broil the nuggets for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Serve the crispy baked chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
Notes
- You can make these nuggets gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Freeze uncooked nuggets by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen and add 5 to 7 minutes to the cook time.
- Ensure chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- The seasoning can be adjusted to taste – add cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6–8 nuggets
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
