Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Skip the drive-thru and make your own crispy, golden chicken nuggets right at home! These baked chicken nuggets are healthier than deep-fried alternatives but just as delicious—packed with flavor, crunch, and made with simple pantry ingredients. Ideal for kids, adults, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than fast food – baked, not fried

• Made with real chicken breast, no fillers

• Budget-friendly and freezer-friendly

• Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or meal prep

• Crispy outside, juicy inside – every bite is delicious

Ingredients Breakdown

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  Cut into nugget-sized pieces, these serve as the juicy, protein-packed base of the dish.

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Adds a savory, aromatic flavor that enhances the chicken.

• 1 teaspoon paprika
  Brings a mild smokiness and a hint of color to the seasoning blend.

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  Essential for balancing and boosting overall flavor.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
  The first layer in the coating process, helping the egg and breadcrumbs stick effectively.

• 2 eggs, beaten
  Acts as the binding agent between the flour and the breadcrumbs.

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  Japanese-style breadcrumbs that give the nuggets their signature light and crispy texture.

• Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil
  Used to grease the baking sheet and promote even browning during baking.

Tips and Tricks

• Cut evenly-sized chicken pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

• For extra flavor, marinate chicken in buttermilk for 1 hour before breading.

• Double breading (egg + panko x2) = extra crunch.

• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs if preferred.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or chili powder to the spice mix.

• Cheesy Nuggets: Mix Parmesan into the breadcrumbs.

• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 390°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy chicken nuggets with:

• Honey mustard or ranch dip

• Sweet potato fries or roasted veggies

• Classic mac and cheese

• Fresh fruit or side salad

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze uncooked nuggets for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or air fry for extra crisp.

Popular Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs will make juicier nuggets, though slightly richer in flavor.

How do I keep them crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs, avoid overcrowding the pan, and rest them on a wire rack after baking.

Are these kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love them—and they’re healthier than store-bought or fast food options.

Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets

---

• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets are a healthier, oven-baked twist on the classic favorite. Juicy chicken pieces are coated in seasoned flour, dipped in egg, and rolled in crunchy panko breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they’re great for dipping, snacking, or pairing with your favorite sides.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil

---

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with non-stick spray or brush with olive oil.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

• In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Toss chicken pieces in this seasoning blend until evenly coated.

Step 3: Bread the Nuggets

Set up a breading station:

Advertisements

1. Bowl 1: All-purpose flour

2. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs

3. Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs

• Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, and then coat in panko.

• Press gently to help the breadcrumbs stick well.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

• Place nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with space between them.

• Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for a crispy finish.

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Let nuggets rest on a wire rack for 3–5 minutes to maintain crispiness.

• Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

• For even crispier results, toast your panko in a dry skillet before coating.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without drying them out.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?