Description
This Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets recipe offers a healthier take on the classic favorite by baking instead of frying. The nuggets are coated in toasted panko breadcrumbs seasoned with a blend of spices, then baked to golden perfection resulting in a crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect as a family-friendly meal or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Coating and Seasoning
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Chicken
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the nuggets.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet and generously spray them with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Bake them for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan to redistribute. Continue baking for another 2-4 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Keep the oven heated for the next steps.
- Mix spices: Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine and set aside.
- Combine eggs and milk: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and almond milk until fully blended. Set aside.
- Prepare baking setup: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack. Spray the wire rack generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then transfer each piece to the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the wire rack about 1 inch apart to allow heat circulation.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken nuggets with nonstick cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the nuggets are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Notes
- Using a wire rack on the baking sheet allows the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken nuggets, resulting in a crispier texture.
- For a spicier kick, increase or omit the cayenne pepper based on your preference.
- Almond milk can be substituted with any milk of your choice depending on dietary requirements.
- Ensure chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature to avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken nuggets.
