Tender Chicken Nuggets
Crispy, tender chicken nuggets coated in seasoned bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick snack or kid-friendly meal with savory flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large resealable bag, combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the egg white.
- Dip the chicken pieces in the egg white, then place in the bag and shake to coat.
- Place the coated chicken in a 15 x 10-inch baking pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
- Bake, uncovered, at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the bread crumbs. If you're out of Parmesan, grated Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. To ensure the chicken stays tender, avoid overcooking it; using a meat thermometer can help achieve the perfect internal temperature of 165°F. These nuggets can also be made using turkey for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken nuggets with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try them in a wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Explore more chicken recipes to find additional sides!
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 (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30 seconds but be aware that this may make them less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tender Chicken Nuggets contains roughly 528 calories, with 20g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1063mg per serving (46% 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 chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used if you prefer dark meat. They will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the nuggets. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What can I do if I don't have seasoned bread crumbs?
If you don't have seasoned bread crumbs, you can easily make your own by mixing plain bread crumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. This will give you the flavor boost you need for the recipe.
Can these chicken nuggets be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked coated chicken nuggets before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).