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Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets Recipe Perfectly Baked and Easy to Make

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These crispy homemade chicken nuggets are perfectly baked for a crunchy exterior and juicy interior, making them a healthier and easy-to-make alternative to fried nuggets. Ideal for family meals, snacks, and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch nugget-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tsp lemon juice as substitute)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for coating

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Cut chicken breasts into roughly 1.5-inch nugget-sized pieces, keeping them uniform.
  3. Pour buttermilk into a bowl. If using milk and lemon juice substitute, mix and let sit for 5 minutes.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  5. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the dry mixture, pressing coating firmly onto chicken.
  6. Arrange coated nuggets on the wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced out evenly.
  7. Lightly spray or brush nuggets with cooking spray or olive oil.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let nuggets rest on the rack for 3-5 minutes before serving to keep coating crispy.

Notes

For extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and breadcrumbs. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent soggy nuggets. Use a wire rack to allow air circulation. Let nuggets rest after baking to keep coating crispy. Variations include gluten-free, spicy, herby, dairy-free, and air fryer options.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken nuggets, homemade chicken nuggets, baked chicken nuggets, crispy chicken nuggets, easy chicken nuggets, family meal, kid-friendly, healthy chicken nuggets

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