Name: Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse salt (divided); 1 teaspoon black pepper (divided); ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko); ½ cup parmesan cheese (grated, good quality); 1 teaspoon favorite herb blend (optional); 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup butter (melted); 2 pieces eggs (slightly beaten)

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As a kid, I always loved the comfort and joy of biting into warm, crispy chicken nuggets. It was a highlight of my week when my mom would whip up her homemade version, and I’d help her in the kitchen. There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked nuggets filling the air. The moment they come out of the oven, golden and crunchy, it’s hard to resist grabbing one right away. Now, I cherish those same moments with my family, sharing laughter and stories as we enjoy these Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets together. They are not just a meal but a memory-maker, perfect for any day of the week.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Grater, Blender, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

What We Adore About This Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets

They’re Healthier Than You Think

When you make your own nuggets, you can control the ingredients right from the start. Using boneless chicken breasts, you ensure that there are no mystery meats or fillers. Plus, baking instead of frying significantly reduces the amount of oil and fat, making these nuggets a healthier option for you and your loved ones.

Perfect for Any Meal

The beauty of Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets lies in their versatility. They can be served for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer. You can pair them with a crisp salad or your favorite dipping sauce, making them suitable for any occasion.

Fun for the Kids

Getting the kids involved in the kitchen can be a great bonding experience, and this recipe is perfect for that! Let them help coat the chicken in buttermilk, flour, and the crunchy breadcrumb mixture. It’s a fun and engaging way to teach them about cooking while creating delicious food!

A Flavor Explosion

The combination of parmesan cheese, herbs, and spices in the breadcrumb coating creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more. Each bite is crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, making them irresistible!

Customizable Dipping Sauces

One of the best parts about Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets is the endless variety of dipping sauces. From honey mustard to barbecue or even a spicy ranch, you can switch things up based on your mood or the preferences of your guests. This allows you to tailor the meal to everyone’s tastes.

Great for Meal Prep

These nuggets can be made in advance and stored for busy days. Bake a batch over the weekend, and you’ll have quick and easy meals ready to go throughout the week. Just reheat them in the oven or air fryer, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in minutes!

FAQ

For the best results in making Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They provide a tender and juicy texture when cooked and are easy to prepare. If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs can also work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Absolutely! To make Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal. Additionally, ensure that your flour is gluten-free, and you’ll have delicious nuggets that everyone can enjoy.

If you’re looking to add some heat to your Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets, consider incorporating spices like cayenne pepper or paprika into your breadcrumb mixture. Another option is to serve the nuggets with a spicy dipping sauce, which can elevate the flavor profile of your dish and satisfy those spicy cravings.

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and place the coated nuggets in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. This method will yield deliciously crunchy nuggets with less fat.

Conclusion

The Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets are a wonderful way to recreate a childhood favorite while ensuring that you know exactly what’s in your meal. Their crispy exterior and tender inside make them a family favorite, and they are easy to whip up for any occasion. I encourage you to give these nuggets a try; they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!