Name: Baked Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 egg (beaten); 3 tablespoons pickle juice; 2 pounds boneless chicken tenders (cut into bite-size pieces); 1 1/4 cups cornflake crumbs; 3/4 cup Panko; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; kosher salt (to taste); extra virgin olive oil (for brushing); 1/4 cup avocado oil mayo; 1/4 cup dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 teaspoons pickle juice (or lemon juice); 1/4 cup avocado oil mayo; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup grated parmesan; 1 clove garlic (grated); 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce; 2 tablespoons ketchup; zest and juice from 1 lime; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1/4 cup hot sauce ((like Franks red hot)); 3 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil); 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; black pepper (to taste)

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Growing up, I always had a soft spot for those crispy, golden nuggets you could get from the snack bar. They were the perfect combination of crunch and flavor, a guilty pleasure that I could enjoy any day of the week. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my version of these classic bites—Baked Chicken Nuggets. These nuggets are not only healthier but also packed with all the flavors you crave. Imagine sinking your teeth into them, accompanied by a variety of delicious sauces that elevate them to a whole new level. I often whip these up for a casual family dinner or when friends come over for game night. Everyone loves them, and they always disappear within minutes!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Baking Sheet

Why This Baked Chicken Nuggets Is a Winner

Healthier Alternative

These nuggets are baked, not fried, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. You can enjoy the crispy texture without the excess oil that comes from traditional frying methods.

Customizable Flavors

The beauty of the Baked Chicken Nuggets lies in their versatility. You can mix and match your favorite spices and sauces to create a flavor profile that truly suits your palate. Whether you love something spicy or prefer a sweet touch, these nuggets can adapt to your cravings.

Kid-Friendly Fun

These nuggets are a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for little hands and can be served as a fun dinner option or a great after-school snack. Plus, getting kids involved in the cooking process can be a delightful bonding experience!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for easy meal prep ideas, these nuggets are a fantastic option. You can make a large batch and freeze them for later, ensuring you always have a quick meal option on hand for busy weeknights.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a party snack, or a game-day treat, these Baked Chicken Nuggets fit the bill perfectly. Their crowd-pleasing nature makes them a staple for any gathering.

Key Ingredients for Baked Chicken Nuggets

The ingredients for these Baked Chicken Nuggets are simple yet incredibly effective in creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. The interplay between the crispy coatings and the juicy chicken is what makes these nuggets so enjoyable. Key players like cornflake crumbs and Panko add that delightful crunch, while the chicken maintains a juicy interior. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

1 egg, beaten
3 tablespoons pickle juice
2 pounds boneless chicken tenders, cut into bite-size pieces
1 1/4 cups cornflake crumbs
3/4 cup Panko
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
kosher salt to taste
extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
1/4 cup avocado oil mayo
1/4 cup dijon mustard
3 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons pickle juice or lemon juice
1/4 cup avocado oil mayo
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1 clove garlic, grated
1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
zest and juice from 1 lime
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup hot sauce (like Franks Red Hot)
3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
black pepper to taste

Making This Baked Chicken Nuggets

Getting started with these Baked Chicken Nuggets is a breeze. Follow these simple steps and enjoy the process of creating a dish that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into the cooking!

Preheat your oven to 450° F. It’s essential to have a hot oven so the nuggets get that perfect crispy exterior. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a bowl, whisk together the egg and pickle juice. This mixture will help the breading stick to the chicken pieces. Once combined, add the chicken tenders and toss them gently to ensure they’re well-coated.
In another bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs, Panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of black pepper. This crunchy coating is what makes the nuggets so addictive. Mix well until evenly incorporated.
Take each piece of chicken from the egg mixture and dredge it through the crumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the surface to adhere properly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and crunch. Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Repeat the dredging process with the remaining chicken tenders until they’re all coated and arranged on the baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the nuggets to enhance their crispiness as they bake.
Now, pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
While the nuggets are baking, it’s time to prepare your sauces. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients for your desired sauces (such as the ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or sweet Thai chili sauce). Taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit of salt or extra ingredients as needed. The possibilities are endless!
Once your nuggets are out of the oven and beautifully crispy, serve them hot with your array of sauces for dipping. Enjoy the crunch and savor the flavors of your homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets.

Things Worth Knowing

Use parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Flavor variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the coating to suit your taste.
Don’t overcrowd: Ensure the nuggets are spaced out on the baking sheet for even cooking.
Check for doneness: Internal temperature should reach 165° F for safety.

Recipe Tips about Baked Chicken Nuggets

To truly master these Baked Chicken Nuggets, here are some handy tips that will help elevate your dish. Cooking is all about learning and tweaking to perfection!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked nuggets; just layer them between parchment paper and transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad to balance out the meal.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spices and high-quality oils will enhance the flavor of your nuggets significantly.
Experiment with sauces: Try different dipping sauces like honey mustard or teriyaki for added flair.

Side Dish Ideas for Baked Chicken Nuggets

When serving your Baked Chicken Nuggets, the options for side dishes are endless! Here are some ideas to complement your meal:

Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the crispy nuggets.
Vegetable Sticks: Crunchy carrot, cucumber, or bell pepper sticks served with ranch or hummus make for a fun and healthy side.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add a sweet and savory flavor that works well with the nuggets.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy and creamy side that can nicely balance the flavors of the nuggets.
Macaroni and Cheese: For a more indulgent option, mac and cheese is a beloved classic that kids and adults adore.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet finish to the meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces instead of chicken tenders. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if the pieces are larger. The important part is to coat them well and follow the baking instructions for that crispy finish!

Leftover Baked Chicken Nuggets are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350° F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. For longer storage, consider freezing them, and make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking together.

There’s a world of dipping sauces that go perfectly with Baked Chicken Nuggets. Classic options include BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and honey mustard. For a spicy kick, try sriracha or a sweet chili sauce. You can even create your own custom sauce combo!

Yes, you can easily make Baked Chicken Nuggets gluten-free! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for the coating. Just double-check the labels on all sauces and ingredients to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.

Conclusion

The Baked Chicken Nuggets are not just a meal; they’re a delightful experience that brings back memories of childhood comfort food. Their crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior make them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. I encourage you to try making these at home; they’re simpler than you might think and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Dive into the fun of creating your own sauces and enjoy this nostalgic treat with your loved ones!