If you’re craving a healthy yet irresistibly crunchy snack, you’ve found the perfect match with The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe. These nuggets balance crispy, golden exteriors with tender, juicy chicken on the inside, all without deep frying or messy oils. Every bite bursts with the savory kick of Parmesan and herbs, making this recipe a weekday winner or game day superstar that both kids and adults adore. Plus, baking them keeps things simple, fresh, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe shine. Each component is simple but critical, contributing delightful flavor, texture, and color to this ultimate comfort food.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast: The lean protein base that stays juicy when baked properly.
- 1 cup plain bread crumbs: Adds the signature crispy coating that locks in moisture.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the breading.
- 2 tablespoons dried basil: Infuses a fragrant, fresh herbal note to the coating.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Complements the basil with aromatic depth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the coating perfectly.
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted: Ensures the bread crumbs brown beautifully and adds luscious richness.
How to Make The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease one or two baking sheets to prevent the nuggets from sticking and to promote even, golden-brown cooking. This simple start sets the stage for crispy success every time.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken into Uniform Nuggets
Take the boneless, skinless chicken breast and cut it into bite-sized nugget pieces. Uniformity is key here because evenly sized pieces cook at the same rate, ensuring no nugget is undercooked or dry.
Step 3: Mix the Bread Crumbs and Seasonings
In a bowl, combine the bread crumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir all the ingredients well so that each nugget will be coated in an aromatic, cheesy, and flavorful crust.
Step 4: Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter by heating it in 30-second bursts on medium power, stirring between intervals. The melted butter will help the coating adhere perfectly and bake up golden and crispy.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken Pieces
Dip each piece of chicken into the melted butter, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered. Place each nugget on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring at least one inch of space between nuggets for proper heat circulation.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Juicy
Bake the nuggets in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want to see a beautiful golden brown outside and confirm the inside is cooked through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F with no pinkness remaining. The result? Crispy edges and succulent interiors that make every bite memorable.
How to Serve The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmesan adds visual appeal and a fresh burst of flavor to your nuggets. A small drizzle of honey mustard or BBQ sauce makes an inviting finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Serve these nuggets alongside crunchy carrot sticks, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. Crispy oven-baked fries are also a classic pairing that keeps this meal wholesome and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your nuggets into a feast by skewering them with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a colorful appetizer platter. Or serve them with small dipping bowls filled with ranch, honey mustard, and tangy sriracha mayo to elevate snack time into a flavorful adventure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover nuggets in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered helps retain their moisture and flavor so you can enjoy them without sacrificing taste.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze uncooked coated nuggets on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once firm. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months and bake just as well straight from frozen, adding convenience to your meal planning.
Reheating
Reheat leftover nuggets in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Microwaving is quicker but may sacrifice crunch, so oven reheating is the preferred method to preserve their crunch and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat, which can add extra juiciness, but they may take slightly longer to cook. The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe is flexible for either cut.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, finely grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese works well. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a savory, cheesy flavor to the breading.
Is it necessary to use butter for coating?
Butter helps the breading crisp up and adds richness, but olive oil is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option. Just be sure to coat the chicken well for even browning.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular bread crumbs. This way, you can enjoy The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe without compromise.
How do I know when the nuggets are fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Nuggets should be golden and no longer pink inside when you cut into one.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen for lazy weekends, busy weeknights, or whenever you want a comforting, crisp bite without the guilt. It’s easy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable — perfect for sharing with friends and family who will thank you for this little bite of heaven.
Print
The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and flavorful baked chicken nuggets made with tender boneless skinless chicken breast, coated in a savory mixture of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. These golden nuggets are baked to perfection, offering a healthier alternative to fried nuggets without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
Breading
- 1 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
Coating
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease one or two baking sheets to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast into small, bite-sized nugget pieces for even cooking and easy coating.
- Mix Breading: In a small mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir well to mix the herbs and cheese evenly throughout the crumbs.
- Melt Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter by heating on medium power in 30-second increments. Stir between intervals until fully melted.
- Coat Chicken: Working one at a time or in small batches, dip each chicken piece into the melted butter to coat it thoroughly. Transfer the coated chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture and roll to cover completely before placing it on the prepared baking sheet. Leave at least 1 inch of space between each piece for even heat circulation.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the outsides are golden brown. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and no longer be pink in the middle.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the nuggets halfway through baking.
- You can substitute salted butter with unsalted butter plus a pinch of salt if preferred.
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for better air circulation if available.
- Ensure chicken pieces are cut uniform in size to cook evenly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
