Name: Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup melted butter; 2 lightly beaten room-temperature eggs

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The first time I made Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets, it felt like a proud moment in my kitchen. I had just returned from a long day of errands, and the last thing I wanted to do was whip up an elaborate meal. But with a few simple ingredients and the promise of crispy, cheesy nuggets dancing in my mind, I couldn’t resist. The aroma of baking chicken filled the air, and soon enough, my family gathered around the kitchen, eager to taste the golden bites I had created. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, and the joy is in seeing everyone’s smiles as they crunch into their very own nuggets. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Oven

Why This Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets Is So Good

Convenience in Every Bite

One of the best aspects of Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets is their incredible ease. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together with friends.

Kid-Approved Flavor

Let’s be honest: kids love finger foods, and these nuggets are no exception. The crispy exterior paired with the juicy chicken inside makes it a favorite among young ones and adults alike. They’re perfect for dipping, too!

Healthy Twist on a Classic

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fast food nuggets, this recipe is a fantastic choice. By baking instead of frying, you can reduce the fat while still delivering a crunchy texture. Plus, you get to control what goes into them!

Customization Galore

Another reason to love these nuggets is the endless possibilities for customization. Want a bit of spice? Add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs. Prefer a different cheese? Go ahead and swap out the parmesan cheese for cheddar! The base is versatile enough to adapt to your cravings.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

These nuggets are not only delicious fresh out of the oven, but they also make fantastic leftovers. Prepare a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have tasty meals ready for school lunches or quick dinners all week long!

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing game-day snacks, or simply want a comforting dinner, Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets fit the bill. They’re easy to share and can be paired with a variety of sauces for dipping. So, next time you’re planning a gathering, these nuggets will surely steal the show!

What You’ll Need for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. The combination of buttermilk and panko breadcrumbs gives these nuggets their unique crunch, while parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. Together, these ingredients create a delicious harmony that results in irresistibly tender chicken nuggets.

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing lean protein that’s perfect for baking.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
½ cup buttermilk – Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds moisture.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates that wonderful, crispy coating that we all love in nuggets.
½ cup parmesan cheese – Adds a delightful cheesy flavor and contributes to the crispy texture.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor profile of the nuggets.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Used for dredging, it ensures a golden crust.
½ cup melted butter – Adds richness and helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
2 lightly beaten room-temperature eggs – Acts as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.

Making This Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Ready to dive into the art of making Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets? It’s simpler than you might think! Follow these steps for perfectly crispy and flavorful nuggets that your family will adore.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your nuggets get that perfect golden color. While the oven heats, cover a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the nuggets, resulting in extra crispiness.
Now, let’s prepare the chicken. Pat the 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Cut the breasts into 1½-inch pieces and place them in a medium bowl.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Then, pour the ½ cup buttermilk over the pieces, mixing well to coat each one evenly. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to soak in that delicious flavor.
While the chicken marinates, take a shallow dish and combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. This mixture will create a flavorful crust for your nuggets.
In three separate shallow dishes, set up your dredging station. Place 1 cup all-purpose flour in one dish, the melted ½ cup butter in another, and the 2 lightly beaten eggs in the last. This assembly line makes coating the chicken a breeze.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Line up the dishes in front of you: flour, butter, eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture.
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess to prevent clumping. Next, dip it in the melted butter before coating it in the breadcrumb mixture. This ensures a thick, crunchy layer. Place each coated piece on the wire rack.
Once all the chicken is coated, place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, turning the nuggets halfway through. They’re ready when golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you find that the nuggets aren’t as crispy as you’d like after 30 minutes, set the oven to broil for a couple of minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Things Worth Knowing

Keep the skin on your chicken for extra moisture if you prefer a more tender nugget.
Use fresh herbs in place of Italian seasoning for a more vibrant flavor.
Ensure your baking sheet is completely dry before placing the nuggets; moisture can affect crispiness.
If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cut chicken strips for faster preparation.

Tips and Tricks about Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Mastering the art of making Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets can take a little practice, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to nugget perfection in no time!

Storage: These nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated nuggets. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from the freezer for a quick meal.
Pairing: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue, for added flavor.
Cooking Method: For an air fryer version, follow the same coating process, but cook at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture, like paprika or garlic powder, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Perfect Pairings for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to serving Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your meal:

Side Salad: Pair your nuggets with a fresh garden salad topped with ranch dressing for a balanced meal.
Vegetable Sticks: Serve with a side of crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a wholesome addition.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges complement the nuggets perfectly and can be seasoned with your favorite spices.
Family Game Night: These nuggets are a hit during family game night. Set up a dipping station with various sauces for a fun twist.
Picnics and Barbecues: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, these nuggets can be served hot or cold, making them a versatile party food.
Child-Friendly Events: Ideal for kids’ parties, both for their taste and easy-to-eat size, they’ll keep the little ones smiling!

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets. Just ensure to thaw it completely before following the recipe. You can also use pre-cut chicken strips to save time. Just remember that the cooking time might be slightly longer if the chicken is still cold.

Several dipping sauces pair beautifully with Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets. You can opt for classic choices like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. For something different, try a spicy sriracha mayo or a creamy garlic dip. The possibilities are endless, and it’s fun to mix and match!

To make Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are plenty of gluten-free breadcrumb options available, or you can make your own using gluten-free bread. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious nuggets!

Absolutely! You can achieve a fantastic crunch using an air fryer. Set it to 380 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the nuggets for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method ensures they remain crispy without the extra oil used in frying.

Conclusion

In summary, Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are not just any ordinary chicken dish; they are a delightful combination of crispy and cheesy goodness that’s sure to please everyone. I encourage you to try making these nuggets for your next family meal or gathering. They are easy to prepare, versatile, and absolutely delicious. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share them with your loved ones!