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- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 egg, beaten - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - Salt and pepper to taste - Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling - Different types of cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella) - Additional seasonings (e.g., Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper) When I make these baked chicken nuggets, I focus on fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in flavor and texture. The chicken breast offers a juicy bite, while panko breadcrumbs give a satisfying crunch. The grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, cheesy taste. Garlic and onion powders bring depth, and paprika adds a subtle warmth. Using an egg helps the crumbs stick well. The all-purpose flour coats the chicken, creating a barrier for moisture. For a personal touch, feel free to switch cheeses or add spices. Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while cayenne adds a kick. Always remember to season with salt and pepper. This simple step makes a big difference! If you want to explore more on how to prepare these ingredients, check out the Full Recipe. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step makes a big difference. The right temperature helps the chicken nuggets cook evenly. The parchment paper makes cleaning up much easier. - Set up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumb mixture. - Coat chicken pieces thoroughly to ensure even coverage. First, you take a piece of chicken, dip it in flour, and cover it well. Then, dip it in the beaten egg to make it sticky. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mix. This process keeps the nuggets crispy and tasty. - Space nuggets on the baking sheet. - Lightly spray with cooking oil. - Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Make sure to leave space between each nugget. This helps them crisp up nicely. After 10 minutes, flip them to get both sides golden brown. At the end of baking, they should smell amazing and look delicious. For the full recipe, check the previous section. To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They provide a light and airy texture. You can also spray oil lightly over the nuggets before baking. This helps them brown nicely and adds to the crispiness. Make sure to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also check for visual cues; the nuggets should be golden brown. This color indicates they are cooked well. Serve your chicken nuggets with tasty dipping sauces. Honey mustard or ranch are great choices. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley. This adds color and makes your dish look even more inviting. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can easily change the taste of your chicken nuggets. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading. If you enjoy fresh flavors, mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumbs. These simple changes will create a new taste experience each time. Try cooking your chicken nuggets in an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil. Just set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10-12 minutes. You can also grill the nuggets for a smoky flavor that adds depth to the dish. Grilling works well, too, and gives them a nice char. If you need gluten-free options, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well and keep the nuggets tasty. For dairy-free needs, try using nutritional yeast instead of cheese. This will still give you a nice flavor without the dairy. You can enjoy different styles while keeping your diet in mind. For the full recipe, check the main section above. Store your chicken nuggets in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To get the best texture, reheat the nuggets in the oven. Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them until warm. This keeps them crispy. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave. Just know that they may lose some crispiness this way. For quick serving, the microwave is convenient but not the best for texture. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide! Yes, but thaw completely before breading and cooking. Using frozen chicken can save time, but the texture may change if not thawed. Thawing allows for even cooking and better breading adherence. Use a meat thermometer to check an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your chicken is safe to eat and juicy. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for a golden brown color and juices that run clear. Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or homemade sauces can elevate the flavor. Each sauce adds a unique twist. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo! Yes, they can be made in advance and stored or frozen for a quick meal. When meal prepping, make sure to cool them completely before freezing. They reheat well, making them a great option for busy days. You can make delicious baked chicken nuggets with simple steps and common ingredients. I covered main components like chicken, breading, and optional seasoning. You can get creative with flavors and dipping sauces. Remember to ensure the chicken cooks well by checking the temperature. These nuggets store well and can fit into meal prep. Try these tips to enjoy great results each time. Enjoy the process and the tasty bites you create!

Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets

Enjoy delicious Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion! This simple recipe features juicy chicken coated in a golden, crunchy breadcrumb crust infused with Parmesan and spices. In just 35 minutes, you'll have a tasty treat that's sure to impress friends and family. Click through to explore the full recipe and get ready to enjoy these mouthwatering bites!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 egg, beaten

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

    In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

      Set up a breading station: in one bowl, place the all-purpose flour; in another, add the beaten egg.

        Take each piece of chicken, dip it in the flour first, coating it well, then into the egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

          Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each nugget.

            Lightly spray or drizzle the nuggets with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking.

                Once done, let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken nuggets with a side of your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.