Tired of greasy, takeout chicken nuggets? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's quick and easy to make? Then you've come to the right place! This oven-baked chicken nugget recipe delivers all the crispy, juicy goodness you love, without the guilt. It's a fantastic option for a quick dinner, a fun family meal, or even a satisfying lunch. Get ready to experience homemade chicken nuggets that are unbelievably flavorful and surprisingly easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals, and it's one of the best recipes for a quick dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss until evenly coated.
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Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, beat the egg. Dip each flour-coated chicken piece into the egg, ensuring it's fully coated.
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Breadcrumb Coating: Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish. Take each egg-coated chicken piece and press it into the breadcrumbs, making sure it's completely covered. Gently press the breadcrumbs to help them adhere.
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Bake to Perfection: Arrange the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, homemade chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips for Extra Crispy Nuggets:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of crisping. Bake in batches if necessary.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create an extra-crispy texture.
- Double breading: For an extra-crispy exterior, you can dip the chicken in the flour mixture twice before the egg wash.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture.
- Cheesy Nuggets: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs.
- Herb-Infused Nuggets: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per nugget - approximate, will vary based on size and ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 4-6g
This recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fast-food chicken nuggets. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both quick and satisfying. These oven-baked chicken nuggets are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. The combination of crispy coating and juicy chicken makes them irresistible. Try this recipe today and enjoy the best of both worlds – flavor and health!