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
Scale
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.
