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If you are craving a satisfyingly crunchy, golden, and juicy treat, you have to try The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe. It perfectly balances a crisp, flavorful coating with tender, succulent chicken inside, all baked to perfection in the oven without the mess of frying. This recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves classic chicken nuggets but wants a healthier, homemade twist that never sacrifices that crave-worthy texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet powerful in creating the perfect crispy crust, delightful seasoning, and juicy chicken inside. Each component plays a key role—whether it’s the hearty crunch of panko breadcrumbs, the burst of savory spices, or the moisture-locking egg wash that keeps every nugget tender.
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs: Light and flaky to create the crispiest coating possible.
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray: Helps achieve that golden-brown crisp without excess oil.
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the seasoning mix.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings mellow, savory undertones.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smokiness and lovely color.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle, aromatic pop.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a hint of heat if you like a little spice.
- 2 large eggs: Serves as the perfect binder to hold the coating on each piece.
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice): Keeps the egg mixture smooth and helps the coating stick evenly.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes: The tender, juicy star ingredient ready to become irresistible nuggets.
How to Make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
To start, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the heat is just right for baking your nuggets perfectly crispy and golden without drying them out. A hot oven is key to sealing in moisture and crisping the coating.
Step 2: Toast the Breadcrumbs
Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a baking sheet and spray generously with olive oil cooking spray. Pop them in the oven for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan to mix them around and toast for another 2 to 4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Toasting the breadcrumbs first adds an extra layer of crunch and flavor that makes The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe truly stand out.
Step 3: Mix the Spices
Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if you want a little spice. Stir everything together so every breadcrumb carries that vibrant, savory flavor that will coat your chicken blissfully.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
In another bowl, whisk the eggs and almond milk together until completely blended. This egg wash helps the seasoned breadcrumbs stick onto the chicken cubes evenly, making sure each bite is packed with flavor and crunch.
Step 5: Set Up for Baking
Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack and spray the rack generously with cooking spray. This keeps the nuggets from sticking and allows air to circulate around them, ensuring even crisping on all sides. This step is a nifty trick that takes The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe to the next level.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken cube into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs cling tightly. Place each coated piece on the wire rack, spacing them about an inch apart. This gives room for the heat to crisp every nugget beautifully.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Lightly spray the tops of your nuggets with nonstick cooking spray which helps them brown evenly. Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the nuggets are irresistibly golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). This cooking method crisps the exterior while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside—definitely worthy of The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe name!
How to Serve The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add an elegant touch and an extra burst of color and flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors delightfully, making your nuggets feel fresh and vibrant.
Side Dishes
Pairing your nuggets with crisp celery sticks and carrot batons adds crunch and balances the richness. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or baked sweet potato fries complement the flavor and texture beautifully, turning this snack into a satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your nuggets as a DIY dipping platter with a variety of sauces—honey mustard, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo. Or build mini nugget sliders using soft buns, lettuce, and pickles for a playful party treat that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated. This flexibility makes The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe perfect for quick lunches or snacks after busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover nuggets by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen nuggets stay good for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from frozen, making meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat and restore their glorious crispiness, place leftover nuggets on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy instead of crisp.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving and stay juicy. Just cut them into the same 1-inch cubes and follow the same coating and baking instructions for equally delicious results.
Is it necessary to toast the panko breadcrumbs before coating?
Toasting the panko is a game changer. It adds a deeper nutty flavor and extra crunch, making these nuggets truly the BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe. You can skip it if short on time, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative. There are many wonderful gluten-free panko-style breadcrumbs available that will keep the crispy texture intact.
What sauces go best with these nuggets?
Classic ketchup and honey mustard are always winners, but don’t be afraid to try ranch, BBQ, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha dip for a flavor kick.
How can I make these nuggets extra spicy?
Add more cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix or sprinkle a bit of chili powder. You can also mix a hot sauce into your dipping sauce for adjustable heat levels.
Final Thoughts
Making The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe at home is not only rewarding but incredibly easy with ingredients you probably already have. The result is a crunchy, flavorful nugget that’s wonderfully juicy inside and light enough to enjoy any day of the week. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again. Grab your apron and start baking these golden nuggets of joy today!
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The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This recipe for the BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets delivers perfectly golden, crunchy nuggets using panko breadcrumbs and a flavorful spice blend. Baked instead of fried, these nuggets are a healthier alternative that remains tender and juicy inside with a satisfying crisp crust. Ideal for a quick family meal or snack, they are easy to make and require just basic pantry spices and chicken breast.
Ingredients
Breadcrumbs and Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice)
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Other
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the chicken nuggets.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet. Spray them generously with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Bake for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan to redistribute the breadcrumbs. Bake for another 2-4 minutes until golden brown. Keep the oven heated throughout this process.
- Mix spices: Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to evenly combine all the spices with the breadcrumbs, then set aside.
- Combine eggs and milk: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and almond milk until fully blended. This mixture will help the seasoned breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Prepare baking setup: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack. Spray the wire rack generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken nuggets from sticking while baking.
- Coat chicken: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Using tongs, transfer the chicken pieces to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently on all sides to ensure they are thoroughly coated with the seasoned crumbs. Place each coated nugget on the wire rack about one inch apart to allow even cooking.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken nuggets with nonstick spray to promote extra crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Notes
- Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the nuggets, making them crispier.
- For extra spice, increase the cayenne pepper to taste or add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Almond milk can be substituted with any preferred milk or even buttermilk for richer flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the nuggets on the wire rack to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Leftover nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
