Chicken Nuggets(Makes 25 To 30 Nuggets)
Crispy, flavorful chicken nuggets perfect for snacking or meal times, appealing to kids and adults alike with savory spices and a tender interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breast or thigh meat in a food processor or chop finely until minced.
- In a small bowl, combine milk, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, seasoned salt, paprika, pepper, and garlic powder to form a mixture.
- Add the minced chicken to the mixture and stir until well coated.
- Shape the mixture into small nugget-sized pieces.
- Place the nuggets on a plate or tray for easy handling.
- Optional: bread the nuggets further by dipping in additional bread crumbs if desired.
- Arrange the nuggets on two microwave-safe plates.
- Microwave on high for about 5-6 minutes, turning or rearranging halfway through, until cooked through and golden.
- Serve hot with barbecue sauce, applesauce, or pizza sauce for dipping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or a mix of chicken and turkey. You can also replace Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option. If you prefer a crunchier texture, double bread the nuggets by dipping them in beaten egg before coating with bread crumbs. For added flavor, try incorporating finely chopped herbs like parsley or oregano into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken nuggets hot with a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, applesauce, or pizza sauce. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside sweet potato fries or a dipping platter with assorted sauces. These nuggets are also a hit at parties or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until heated through. For a crispier texture, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Nuggets(Makes 25 To 30 Nuggets) contains roughly 27 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% 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 bake these chicken nuggets instead of microwaving them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken nuggets for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, flipping them halfway for even cooking.
Can I freeze the chicken nuggets before cooking them?
Absolutely! After shaping the nuggets, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. You can cook them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, adjusting as needed until they're fully cooked.
What can I use instead of seasoned salt?
If you don't have seasoned salt on hand, you can make your own blend using regular salt mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika. This will add similar flavors to your chicken nuggets. Alternatively, using just regular salt with additional herbs can also work well in this recipe.
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).