Baked Chicken Nuggets
Crispy baked chicken nuggets with flavorful herbs and Parmesan, perfect as a snack or main dish for families and parties. Kid-friendly and easy to customize with dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan, salt, thyme, and basil in a bowl.
- Dip chicken pieces in melted butter, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated chicken nuggets on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Serve with barbecue or honey mustard sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating. If you're out of Parmesan, you can substitute with grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. For a spicier kick, add paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture. Serve these nuggets alongside a creamy dip for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
These baked chicken nuggets are perfect for family dinners or game day snacks. Serve them with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. They also pair well with barbecue sauce or honey mustard for dipping. For a fun twist, try them with the sauce from Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken Breasts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken Nuggets contains roughly 364 calories, with 40g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1900mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier nugget. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a bit longer to cook thoroughly. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I freeze the chicken nuggets?
Absolutely! You can freeze the coated, uncooked nuggets on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these chicken nuggets?
These chicken nuggets taste great with various sides. Consider serving them with coleslaw, carrot sticks, or a cheesy dip. They also go well with a classic American recipes theme, making them ideal alongside mac and cheese or a simple pasta salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).