Treat yourself and your family to these delicious Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets. These nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. They make for a perfect snack, appetizer, or main course that everyone will love.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches each.
Prepare the Breading:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Bread the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Then, coat the chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Place the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
Bake the Nuggets:
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken nuggets with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to help them crisp up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- For extra crispiness, turn the nuggets halfway through the baking time.
Serve:
- Once baked, remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer: Serve as a finger food with a variety of dipping sauces for a party or gathering.
- Main Dish: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, a salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
- Snack: Enjoy as a quick and nutritious snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Breadcrumb Variations: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, or mix in some finely chopped fresh herbs.
- Crispy Texture: For an extra crispy texture, broil the nuggets for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: High in protein and low in fat, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a source of calcium and rich flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide a light and crispy coating with fewer calories than traditional breadcrumbs.
Dietary Information:
- Kid-Friendly: A great option for kids who enjoy fun and tasty finger foods.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb version, use almond flour instead of panko breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare and ready in under 40 minutes.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs creates a deliciously crispy coating.
- Versatile: Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or main courses, and customizable with your favorite seasonings.
Conclusion:
Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that everyone will enjoy. With their crispy coating and tender chicken, these nuggets are sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the simplicity and great taste of these homemade chicken nuggets.