These Baked Chicken Nuggets deliver all the crunch and flavor of fast-food nuggets without the grease or guilt. They’re easy to make with just a few simple ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes. Baking instead of frying reduces calories and mess, making them a family-friendly option for busy weeknights. Plus, you can prepare and freeze them ahead of time for quick meals any day of the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs breadcrumbs or panko parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor) eggs all-purpose flour paprika garlic powder onion powder salt black pepper cooking spray or olive oil spray
Direction
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Cut the chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
Prepare three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, and spices; one with beaten eggs; and one with breadcrumbs (and parmesan, if using).
Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange the coated nuggets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Spicy Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture.
Cheesy Nuggets: Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the breadcrumb coating.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Herb-Crusted: Add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
Air Fryer Version: Cook the nuggets in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through and crisp. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispy texture.
To freeze, place the cooked nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
FAQs
Are baked chicken nuggets healthier than fried?
Yes, baking uses less oil, reducing fat and calories while still providing a crispy texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs add extra moisture and flavor, making juicy nuggets.
How do I get the nuggets extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and spray the nuggets lightly with oil before baking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the nuggets and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them uncooked.
What dipping sauces go best with these nuggets?
Try honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or a homemade garlic aioli.
Can I cook these in the air fryer?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
How do I know when the nuggets are done?
The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating golden brown.
Can I use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs?
Yes, but reduce or adjust the added salt and spices in your flour mixture.
Are these good for meal prep?
Definitely. They reheat well and are great for packing in lunches or freezing for future meals.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, kids can help dredge and coat the nuggets—just supervise around raw chicken and hot ovens.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Nuggets are a wholesome, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s both kid-friendly and adult-approved. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these nuggets are perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or freezer meals. Serve them with your favorite sauces and sides for a comforting, satisfying bite every time.
Baked Chicken Nuggets are a healthier, oven-baked alternative to the classic fried version. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for family meals, meal prep, or kid-friendly dinners.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Cut chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
Set up three bowls: one with flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder; one with beaten eggs; one with breadcrumbs and parmesan (if using).
Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip into the eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange nuggets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve warm with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ.
Notes
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.Chicken thighs can be used for juicier nuggets.To make ahead, bread nuggets and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.To freeze, bake then freeze, or freeze uncooked and bake from frozen whenneeded.For an air fryer version, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
