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The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

These baked chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to fried versions, featuring tender chicken breast pieces coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan, bread crumbs, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family-friendly meal that's quick and easy to prepare.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Nuggets

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed into bite-size pieces

Coating Mixture

  • 1 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Coating Butter

  • 1/2 cup salted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and lightly grease one to two baking sheets to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Cube the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized nugget pieces, making sure they are uniformly sized for even cooking.
  3. Mix the Coating: In a small mixing bowl, combine the plain bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  4. Melt the Butter: Melt the salted butter in the microwave by heating in 30-second increments on medium power until fully melted.
  5. Coat the Chicken: Working one piece at a time or in small batches, dip each chicken nugget into the melted butter to coat thoroughly, then transfer it to the bread crumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least one inch apart.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, no longer pink in the center, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The nuggets should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can broil the nuggets for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure nuggets reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Substitute salted butter with unsalted and add a pinch of salt if preferred.
  • Serving suggestions include pairing with ranch dressing, ketchup, or honey mustard sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American