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
Scale
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
