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Baked Chicken Nuggets

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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.

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

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Cut chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
  3. 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).
  4. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip into the eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Arrange nuggets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. 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.

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