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The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 4 hours marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (excluding marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Nut-Free

Description

This Best Baked Chicken Nuggets recipe offers a healthier twist on classic fried nuggets by baking them to crispy, golden perfection. Tender chicken breast pieces are marinated in a flavorful buttermilk blend, coated with a crunchy mixture of panko, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then oven-baked for a guilt-free, delicious meal that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Breading

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse and tenderize the chicken.
  2. Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  3. Make the breadcrumb coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil or melted butter until the mixture is evenly coated and crumbly. This blend will give the nuggets a crunchy and flavorful crust.
  4. Coat the chicken pieces: Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off to avoid sogginess. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure all sides are well coated.
  5. Arrange and prepare for baking: Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help achieve extra crispiness during baking.
  6. Bake the nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. About halfway through the baking time, flip the nuggets to ensure even browning. The nuggets are done when golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Optional broiling: For an extra crispy finish, broil the nuggets for the last 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Serve: Allow the nuggets to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or ketchup for a delightful meal.

Notes

  • For extra crisp nuggets, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking while watching carefully.
  • Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or ketchup.
  • Greek yogurt can be substituted for buttermilk if necessary.

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Find it online: https://familyfriendlydishes.com/the-best-baked-chicken-nuggets-recipe/