Description
These baked chicken nuggets are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried nuggets, featuring tender chicken breast coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a crispy texture without the extra oil, making them perfect for a family-friendly meal or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
Coating
- 1 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
Butter
- 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 the chicken nuggets from sticking and to ensure even browning during baking.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breast into small, bite-sized nugget pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the nuggets the perfect size for dipping and coating.
- Mix Coating: In a small mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir thoroughly to distribute the herbs and cheese evenly throughout the breadcrumb mixture.
- Melt Butter: Place the salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl and melt it by heating on medium power in 30-second increments. Stir between each interval until fully melted and smooth.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken piece individually or in small batches into the melted butter, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Then, roll the butter-coated chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating evenly. Arrange the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart to allow for proper heat circulation and even cooking.
- Bake Nuggets: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the nuggets for 20 to 25 minutes. They are done when the outside is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, with no pink remaining inside.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can flip the nuggets halfway through baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Feel free to substitute dried basil and oregano with other herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch dressing.
- These nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
