Go Back
–+ servings
Baked Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Everyone Will Love

Enjoy guilt-free, crispy baked chicken nuggets that are easy to prepare and customizable to your tastes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 4 nuggets
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for extra flavor.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Can replace with yogurt or milk mixed with lemon juice.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground is preferred.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used instead.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onion can be used if finely chopped.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Creates a light, crispy coating.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Can be omitted or substituted with nutritional yeast.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used if necessary.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika can enhance flavor.
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme Can be replaced with oregano or Italian seasoning.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to your spice preference.
For Baking
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 spray Cooking Spray Prevents sticking.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Shallow dish
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure all pieces are well-coated, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  2. While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Stir these ingredients until evenly combined.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
  4. Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the refrigerator. Let the excess buttermilk drip off, then dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat them well.
  5. Drizzle the coated chicken nuggets lightly with olive oil, which will assist in crisping them during baking.
  6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken nuggets for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  7. Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juiciness. Serve your scrumptious baked chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 4nuggetsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 26gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated in the breadcrumb mixture for a crispy exterior. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!