Say goodbye to greasy nugs: discover the healthier, oven-baked chicken nuggets recipe
What To Know
- For extra crispy nuggets, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the flour mixture, then the bread crumb mixture, and repeating the process.
- To make the nuggets healthier, use whole-wheat flour and bread crumbs and bake them on a nonstick baking sheet without greasing it.
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the bread crumb mixture.
Craving a crispy and juicy chicken nugget fix without the hassle of deep-frying? Look no further than our delectable oven-baked chicken nugget recipe. This easy-to-follow guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to create irresistible homemade chicken nuggets that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Optional: dipping sauce of your choice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Create the Coating:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Coat the Nuggets:
- Dip the floured chicken pieces into the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange the coated nuggets on a lightly greased baking sheet.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the chicken nuggets for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Flip the nuggets halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the crispy, tender delight!
Tips for Success:
- For extra crispy nuggets, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the flour mixture, then the bread crumb mixture, and repeating the process.
- If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can substitute crushed crackers or tortilla chips.
- To make the nuggets healthier, use whole-wheat flour and bread crumbs and bake them on a nonstick baking sheet without greasing it.
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the bread crumb mixture.
Variations:
- Cheesy Nuggets: Add 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the bread crumb mixture.
- BBQ Nuggets: Brush the nuggets with barbecue sauce before baking.
- Buffalo Nuggets: Toss the baked nuggets in buffalo sauce for a zesty flavor.
Final Thoughts:
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness of homemade chicken nuggets made in the convenience of your oven. Experiment with different variations to cater to your taste preferences and enjoy a delightful meal that satisfies your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and coating it.
Q: How can I ensure the nuggets are cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the nuggets. It should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Q: What is the best dipping sauce for chicken nuggets?
A: The choice of dipping sauce is subjective, but popular options include ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing.
