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The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Best Baked Chicken Nuggets
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Oven-baked chicken nuggets with an ultra-crispy panko crust and juicy interior. Kid-approved and adult-loved, these nuggets are perfect for dipping and come together in just 30 minutes!

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (about 24 nuggets) 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1.5 cups (90g) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 3 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheet with parchment and place wire rack on top. Spray rack with cooking spray.
  2. Breading stations: Set up three bowls: 1) flour + salt/pepper, 2) beaten eggs + milk, 3) panko + Parmesan + spices.
  3. Coat chicken: Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg mixture, then press firmly into panko mixture to adhere.
  4. Bake: Arrange nuggets on rack. Drizzle with melted butter. Bake 10 minutes, flip, then bake 8-10 more minutes until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Crisp: Broil 1-2 minutes for extra crunch if desired.
  6. Serve: With favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness: Double-dip in egg and panko
  • Make ahead: Freeze unbaked nuggets on tray, then transfer to bags for up to 3 months (add 5 mins to bake time)
  • Gluten-free option: Use GF panko and flour
  • Air fryer version: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway
  • Kid-friendly tip: Use cookie cutters for fun shapes

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesfood.org/best-baked-chicken-nuggets/