Name: Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 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

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

You know those evenings when the craving for something crispy and satisfying hits just right? That’s when I whip up my favorite recipe: Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets. They’re not only easy to make, but they also remind me of my childhood when I would eagerly dive into a plate of golden nuggets after a busy day. These nuggets are always a hit, whether I’m making them for a casual family dinner or hosting friends for a movie night. The best part? They’re baked, so you can indulge without the guilt!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

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

The Appeal of This Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

What makes Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets so special? Let me share some reasons why I absolutely adore this recipe!

1. Healthier Alternative

While traditional chicken nuggets are often deep-fried, my version bakes them to golden perfection. This means you get all the crunch and flavor without the excess oil. If you’re conscious about your health, this is a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic comfort food!

2. Super Simple to Prepare

From prep to bake, making Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets is a breeze! With just a few ingredients, you can prepare these nuggets in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Kid-Approved

If you’re looking for a dish that kids will rave about, look no further. The combination of parmesan cheese and crispy panko breadcrumbs will have them asking for seconds (or thirds!). It’s a win-win for parents trying to get their little ones to eat healthily.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily modify the seasoning or even the dipping sauces to suit your taste. Whether you love spicy or prefer something milder, this recipe allows for plenty of variations to keep things exciting at the dinner table.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a game day gathering, or a festive holiday meal, Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets fit right in. They can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a snack while watching your favorite movie.

6. Meal Prep Friendly

These nuggets are fantastic for meal prepping! Make a large batch, freeze them, and bake as needed. You’ll have a quick meal option ready for those busy days when you don’t feel like cooking. Just pop them in the oven, and you’re good to go!

Key Ingredients for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

The magic of Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a pivotal role in creating that irresistible crunch and flavor. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, they provide a tender and juicy texture that everyone loves.
Buttermilk: This ingredient tenderizes the chicken and adds a slight tanginess, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Panko breadcrumbs: They give that extra crunch that makes these nuggets truly unforgettable.
Parmesan cheese: This brings a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish and makes it feel gourmet.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
All-purpose flour and eggs: These help create a delicious coating that locks in the flavors and ensures that perfect crunch.

Putting Together Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Creating these delicious Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets is not only satisfying but also fun! Let’s dive into the steps.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for getting that nice golden color on your nuggets.
Cover a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken as it bakes, making it crispy all around.
Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry, then cut them into 1½-inch pieces. This size ensures even cooking and makes them perfect for dipping.
In a medium bowl, sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. Then, pour in the buttermilk and mix well to coat each piece. Let it sit for a moment to absorb the flavors.
In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even blend of flavors.
In separate shallow dishes, place all-purpose flour, melted butter, and lightly beaten eggs. You’ll have four stations ready for coating!
Using a mesh strainer, take the chicken out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off back into the bowl. This prevents sogginess.
Now, it’s time to coat! Take a piece of chicken, dredge it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the butter, followed by the eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Place it on the wire rack.
Repeat this process with all the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated.
Once all the chicken is on the rack, place the baking sheet in the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, turning the nuggets halfway through to ensure even browning.
After about 30 minutes, check for doneness. The nuggets should be golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. If you prefer them extra crispy, switch the oven setting to broil for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Things Worth Knowing

Tip for Coating: Ensure the chicken is well-coated in each step to achieve that perfect crunch.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the nuggets as oven temperatures can vary. Look for a golden-brown color.
Freezing Option: These nuggets freeze well! Just freeze them after coating and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestion: Pair these nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!

Tips and Variations

Here are some fantastic tips and variations to make your Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets experience even better!

Storage: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, coated nuggets for a quick meal option. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch for a fun twist.
Spice it Up: Add some cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this a gluten-free dish for those with dietary restrictions.

Perfect Pairings for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Fresh Salads: Pair your nuggets with a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables such as carrots or broccoli make for a nutritious side that colors your plate beautifully.
Potato Dishes: Consider serving with mashed potatoes or baked fries for a classic comfort food combo.
Occasions: These nuggets are perfect for lunchboxes, casual get-togethers, or even game days!
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a fresh corn salad, and in winter, opt for roasted root veggies to contrast the crispy nuggets.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the nuggets and freeze them before baking. Just coat them and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to cook them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.

There are so many delicious options! Honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, and spicy sriracha are all fantastic choices. You can even create a fun dipping sauce bar for gatherings!

Yes! While this recipe is best with chicken, you can use fish or tofu for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time as fish may require less time, while tofu may need a bit longer to achieve that crispy coating.

You can easily make these gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many great options available at most grocery stores!

Conclusion

The Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, delivering a perfect combination of crunch and flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying they are! Serve them at your next gathering or enjoy them on a cozy night in; either way, they’re sure to impress!