Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

There’s nothing quite like a batch of freshly made Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets to lift your spirits and satisfy those cravings! Picture this: it’s a cozy evening, and I’ve just returned from a long day. I want something comforting but not too heavy, and that’s when these nuggets come to mind. The tangy, spicy flavor of buffalo sauce combined with the crispy texture of the nuggets makes for an irresistible snack or meal. I remember the first time I made these, I was amazed at how easily they came together and how much everyone loved them. From game nights to casual dinners, these nuggets have become a staple in my kitchen.

Everything You Need for Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making the perfect Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets. Each component plays a key role in delivering that delicious flavor and satisfying crunch. The main players here are the tender chicken breast, flavorful spices, and crispy breadcrumbs. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s sure to impress!

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Provides a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the nuggets.
• 1/2 tsp chili powder: This spice brings a bit of heat and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/8 tsp black pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a hint of spice without overpowering.
• 6 tbsp whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs give the nuggets their desired crunch and flavor.
• 1/4 cup panko: Panko adds an extra layer of crispiness that’s hard to resist.
• Olive oil spray: Helps achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture.
• 2 tbsp Frank’s Hot Sauce: The star of the show, this hot sauce brings that classic buffalo flavor.
• 2 tsp olive oil: Used to mix with the hot sauce to help everything stick.
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: The main ingredient, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
• 4 celery stalks: A refreshing side, perfect for dipping in blue cheese dressing.
• Optional: 1/2 cup skinny blue cheese dressing: A classic pairing for buffalo style dishes.

Recipe Steps for Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

Making Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy delicious homemade nuggets without the fuss. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring you get that perfect crispiness and flavor. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. This temperature will help the nuggets bake evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with olive oil spray. This step is crucial to ensure the nuggets don’t stick and get that nice golden color.
3. In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Add whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and panko to the spice mixture and toss until everything is well combined. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for your nuggets.
5. In another medium bowl, pour in Frank’s Hot Sauce along with olive oil. Stir to combine, creating a sticky mixture that will help the coating adhere to the chicken pieces.
6. Take the boneless, skinless chicken breast and cut it into about 40 small bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
7. Dip each piece of chicken into the hot sauce mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Once all the chicken pieces are coated, spray the tops generously with olive oil spray. This step will help them crisp up as they bake.
9. Bake the nuggets in your preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through.
10. After the first baking time, carefully flip the nuggets over and continue baking for another 4 to 5 minutes. They should be crispy on the outside and fully cooked inside.
11. Once done, remove them from the oven and serve hot with celery sticks and optional blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy!

Making Adjustments

Making adjustments to the Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets recipe can elevate your dish to new heights. Here are some tips to consider that can help you personalize your cooking experience.

• Storage: After making the nuggets, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked nuggets. Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of crunchy carrot sticks and a refreshing ranch dressing for dipping.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preference. For a milder version, reduce the hot sauce and add more spices.
• Breadcrumbs: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, like seasoned panko or gluten-free options.
• Oven Temperature: If you’re using a convection oven, you may need to lower the temperature slightly for even cooking.

Great Combinations for Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to enjoying Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets, the possibilities are endless! Here are some great combinations and ideas for serving.

• Classic Dipping Sauce: Pair your nuggets with blue cheese dressing or ranch. These creamy dips complement the spicy flavor perfectly.
• Vegetable Sides: Serve with a side of celery sticks or carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch that balances the heat of the nuggets.
• Casual Gatherings: Perfect for game nights or casual parties, these nuggets make a fantastic finger food option.
• Adding a Twist: Consider adding a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lime for a sweet and tangy contrast to the spicy nuggets.
• Meal Prep: These nuggets are great for meal prep! Make a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Kids’ Lunch: Include these nuggets in your kids’ lunchboxes with some veggies and a dipping sauce for a fun meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets are a delightful balance of crispy, spicy, and savory flavors that everyone loves. Whether you’re serving them as a snack for game night or as a fun meal option, they never disappoint. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Buffalo Chicken Nuggets are crispy, spicy, and oh-so-easy to make! Perfect for game day or a quick snack, these nuggets will satisfy your cravings without the guilt. You can't go wrong with this easy weeknight dinner!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder use ground cayenne to make it hotter
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 6 tbsp whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs or gluten-free crumbs
• 1/4 cup panko
• olive oil spray
• 2 tbsp Frank's Hot Sauce or your favorite hot sauce
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 40 small bite sized pieces
• 4 celery stalks trimmed to 4 inch strips
• 1/2 cup skinny blue cheese dressing optional

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. This temperature will help the nuggets bake evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with olive oil spray. This step is crucial to ensure the nuggets don’t stick and get that nice golden color.
3. In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Add whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and panko to the spice mixture and toss until everything is well combined. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for your nuggets.
5. In another medium bowl, pour in Frank's Hot Sauce along with olive oil. Stir to combine, creating a sticky mixture that will help the coating adhere to the chicken pieces.
6. Take the boneless, skinless chicken breast and cut it into about 40 small bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
7. Dip each piece of chicken into the hot sauce mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Once all the chicken pieces are coated, spray the tops generously with olive oil spray. This step will help them crisp up as they bake.
9. Bake the nuggets in your preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through.
10. After the first baking time, carefully flip the nuggets over and continue baking for another 4 to 5 minutes. They should be crispy on the outside and fully cooked inside.
11. Once done, remove them from the oven and serve hot with celery sticks and optional blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy!

Notes

After making the nuggets, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

You can freeze the uncooked nuggets. Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.

Serve with a side of crunchy carrot sticks and a refreshing ranch dressing for dipping.

Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preference. For a milder version, reduce the hot sauce and add more spices.

Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, like seasoned panko or gluten-free options.

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Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!