Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few things are as universally loved as chicken nuggets. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and oh-so-delicious, these homemade baked chicken nuggets are a healthier twist on the classic favorite. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they make a great snack, appetizer, or main dish. Plus, you can customize them to your taste! Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Here’s why you’ll love it:

– Healthier Option: Baking rather than frying keeps these nuggets lighter and less greasy without sacrificing flavor.
– Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
– Customizable: Adjust the spices and flavors to suit your personal preferences.
– Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids involved in the kitchen and eating healthy!

What We’re Using

To create these delicious chicken nuggets, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Fresh or thawed, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse salt: Divided for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Divided for seasoning.
• 1 cup buttermilk: For marinating the chicken, adds tenderness and moisture.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Panko works best for that extra crunch.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese: Grated, for added flavor and crispiness.
• 1 teaspoon favorite herb blend: Optional, but adds a lovely aroma and taste.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: For coating the chicken pieces.
• ½ cup butter: Melted, to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
• 2 eggs: Slightly beaten, to help bind the coating.

Equipment & Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe:

• Large mixing bowl: For marinating and mixing your ingredients.
• Baking sheet: To lay out your nuggets for baking.
• Parchment paper: Optional, for easier cleanup.
• Whisk: For beating the eggs and mixing the dry ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board: For cutting the chicken into pieces.

Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe: How It’s Done

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of creating your delicious nuggets.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and the buttermilk. Mix until all the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your nuggets will cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, remaining salt, black pepper, and herb blend (if using). In another bowl, place the flour. In a third bowl, beat the eggs.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Working one piece at a time, dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Drizzle with Butter

Once all the chicken pieces are coated, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the nuggets. This will help them achieve a crispy texture while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Nuggets

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway for even crispiness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ketchup, or ranch dressing. Enjoy your homemade creation!

Dietary Customizations

This Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe can be easily modified for various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy milk alternative and omit parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free version.
• Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.

Things That Go Wrong

While making chicken nuggets is generally straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Too soggy: Ensure the chicken is adequately coated with flour and breadcrumbs before baking.
• Not crispy enough: Make sure to drizzle enough melted butter and flip the nuggets halfway through baking.
• Overcooking: Keep an eye on the nuggets as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
• Uneven cooking: Cut chicken pieces to a uniform size for even cooking.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare these chicken nuggets ahead of time for a quick meal later:

• Marinating: Marinate the chicken the night before for extra flavor.
• Freezing: Assemble the nuggets and freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storing: Leftover nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier nugget. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.

What dipping sauces pair well with chicken nuggets?

Some popular choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce. Feel free to get creative!

Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?

This recipe is specifically designed for baking, making it a healthier option. Baking allows for a crispy exterior without the added oil from frying.

How can I make these nuggets spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick!

Keep Cooking

If you’re a fan of chicken dishes, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders – A flavorful twist on classic tenders.
• Buffalo Chicken Sliders – Perfect for game day or a fun dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a childhood favorite in a healthier way. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they are also packed with flavor and can be adapted to suit any dietary preference. Whether served as a snack, an appetizer, or a meal, these nuggets are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So preheat that oven, and let’s get cooking!