Healthy Chicken Nuggets Recipe For Toddlers: Sneaking Veggies Into Your Kid’s Favorite Meal
What To Know
- For a spicier chicken nugget, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
- Simply place a chicken nugget on a slider bun and top with your favorite toppings.
- Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chicken nuggets are a classic toddler favorite, and for good reason! They’re delicious, easy to eat, and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. If you’re looking for a healthy and easy chicken nugget recipe that your toddler will love, look no further! This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be made in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Dipping sauce of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg.
4. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then roll in the panko breadcrumb mixture.
6. Place the chicken nuggets on a greased baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Nuggets:
- Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces so that they cook evenly.
- Season the chicken with a variety of spices to give it flavor.
- Use a combination of flour and cornstarch to coat the chicken. This will help the nuggets stay crispy.
- Dip the chicken in egg before rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Use a variety of breadcrumb mixtures to create different flavors. You can use panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, or even crushed cereal flakes.
- Bake the chicken nuggets at a high temperature so that they cook quickly and evenly.
- Serve the chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations on the Chicken Nuggets Recipe:
- For a spicier chicken nugget, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
- For a cheesy chicken nugget, add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
- For a healthier chicken nugget, bake them instead of frying them.
- For a fun twist, try making chicken nugget sliders. Simply place a chicken nugget on a slider bun and top with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chicken nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
- Serve chicken nuggets with a side of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or broccoli.
- Serve chicken nuggets with a side of rice or pasta.
- Serve chicken nuggets as an appetizer or main course.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of chicken nuggets (4 pieces) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2 grams
- Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
- Sodium: 500 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
Wrapping Up: A Toddler-Friendly Delight
This chicken nugget recipe is a surefire hit with toddlers and adults alike. It’s easy to make, customizable, and delicious. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give this recipe a try. Your toddler will thank you!
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken nuggets. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Q: How long can I store leftover chicken nuggets?
A: Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I reheat chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can reheat chicken nuggets in the oven or microwave. Just be sure to heat them until they are warmed through.