Golden Crispy Chicken Nuggets Recipe: Oven-baked Goodness In Just 20 Minutes!

Craving crispy, golden-brown chicken nuggets without the hassle of deep-frying? Look no further! This oven-baked chicken nuggets recipe will satisfy your cravings with tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these homemade chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to store-bought options and can be easily customized to your liking.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

3. Set Up the Egg Wash:

• In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.

4. Dip and Coat the Chicken:

• Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture again. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

5. Bake the Chicken Nuggets:

• Place the coated chicken nuggets on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumb coating is golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the crispy chicken nuggets immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Nuggets:

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give the chicken nuggets enough space to cook evenly.
• If you like a crispier coating, spray the chicken nuggets with a little cooking oil before baking.
• Adjust the seasonings to your taste; you can add more herbs, spices, or cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair the chicken nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces for a fun and flavorful experience.
• Serve the chicken nuggets as an appetizer or main course.
• Accompany the chicken nuggets with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Healthier Options:

• Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier coating.
• Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the breadcrumb mixture for a lower-fat option.
• Opt for low-fat or fat-free dipping sauces to keep the overall meal healthier.

Storage and Reheating:

• Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

“The Final Bite:”

Indulge in the crispy, juicy goodness of homemade chicken nuggets made in the oven. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavor and convenience, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or hosting a party, these chicken nuggets will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Information You Need to Know

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and coating it.

2. How do I know if the chicken nuggets are cooked through?

• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken nugget. It should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

3. What are some alternative dipping sauces for chicken nuggets?

• Try honey mustard, barbecue sauce, sweet and sour sauce, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing.