Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Learn how to make easy homemade chicken nuggets that are juicy, crispy, and baked to perfection. This family-friendly recipe is healthier than fried options, packed with flavor, and perfect for kids and adults. Includes tips, variations, and serving suggestions to customize the recipe to your taste!

Ingredients

For the Nuggets:

• 1 lb. ground chicken (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 slice bread or 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, whisked
• 3 tablespoons melted butter (or canola oil spray)

For the Breading:

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Panade:
   • Place the bread in a bowl and pour the milk over it. Let it soak for 2-3 minutes. If using Italian breadcrumbs instead of bread, you may need to add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of milk.
   • Add the garlic salt and black pepper to the milk mixture and combine using your hands. This panade ensures the nuggets remain juicy, preventing them from becoming dry and dense.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with the panade using your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Form the Nuggets:
   • Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture and shape it into nugget-sized pieces. Set the formed nuggets aside.
5. Prepare the Breading:
   • Combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley on a large plate.
6. Coat the Nuggets:
   • Brush each nugget with the whisked egg, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
   • Roll the nuggets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thorough coating.
7. Bake the Nuggets:
   • Place the breaded nuggets on a baking sheet.
   • Brush half of the melted butter over the tops of the nuggets. Alternatively, use canola oil spray, though they may not turn as golden.
   • Bake for 7 minutes, then remove the tray from the oven.
8. Finish Baking:
   • Flip the nuggets and brush the other side with the remaining melted butter (or use canola oil spray).
   • Return to the oven and bake for another 8 minutes.
9. Rest and Serve:
   • Allow the nuggets to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauces!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these nuggets are a wholesome option for the whole family.
• Juicy and Flavorful: The panade keeps the chicken moist, while the Parmesan adds a savory twist.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfectly sized and delicious, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

Tips

• Don’t Skip the Panade: It’s key to ensuring the nuggets stay juicy.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavor compared to pre-packaged varieties.
• Spacing is Important: Arrange the nuggets on the baking sheet with space between them to promote even browning.
• Golden Nuggets: For extra crispiness, finish them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for a kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and bread.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix shredded mozzarella into the chicken mixture for added cheesiness.
• Herb Swap: Replace parsley with Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze these nuggets?
Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through.

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe.

Q: How do I know when they’re done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ketchup.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add to wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch option.

Suggestions

• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze a portion for easy weeknight meals.
• Dipping Bar: Set up a variety of dipping sauces to let everyone customize their flavors.
• Meal Prep: Use the nuggets as a protein source for meal prep bowls with rice and veggies.