Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets with Ground Chicken recipe

Weeknights can be a whirlwind, especially when it comes to dinner. Finding something quick, healthy-ish, and that the whole family will actually eat can feel like a Herculean task. That’s where these Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets made with ground chicken have become my absolute lifesaver. Forget the processed, store-bought versions – these homemade nuggets are a game changer. The first time I whipped them up, I was amazed at how simple they were to make. Honestly, it took less time than ordering takeout! And the taste? So much better than anything pre-packaged. They are incredibly tender and juicy on the inside, with a lovely crispy coating on the outside, and you control exactly what goes into them. My kids, who are self-proclaimed nugget connoisseurs, declared them “the best nuggets ever!” That’s high praise indeed. These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets are now a regular request in our house, perfect for busy weeknights, fun weekend lunches, or even as a healthier party snack. They are versatile, delicious, and surprisingly nutritious, and I’m excited to share this simple and satisfying recipe with you so you can bring the same dinnertime peace (and nugget joy!) to your table.

Ingredients

To create these incredibly easy and delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets with ground chicken, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and adaptability – feel free to adjust seasonings and breading to suit your family’s preferences. Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients to get you started, ensuring your nuggets are flavorful, tender, and perfectly crispy:

For the Chicken Nuggets:

• 1 pound Ground Chicken: The foundation of our healthier chicken nuggets. Ground chicken is leaner than ground beef or pork and provides a great source of protein. Use lean or extra-lean ground chicken for best results. If you prefer, you can substitute with ground turkey for a slightly different flavor profile and equally lean option. Ensure the ground chicken is fresh or fully thawed if frozen.
• ½ cup Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): Breadcrumbs are essential for binding the ground chicken and creating a slightly crispy texture inside the nugget. Panko breadcrumbs will provide a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs, but both work well. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes.
• ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Parmesan cheese adds savory flavor and a slight salty note to the nuggets. It also contributes to browning and crispness. Use finely grated Parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free option, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor.
• 1 Large Egg: Acts as a binder, holding the ground chicken mixture together and adding moisture. Use a large egg. For an egg-free option, you can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken) or a commercial egg replacer, but the texture may be slightly different.
• 2 tablespoons Milk (or Plant-Based Milk): Adds moisture to the mixture and helps create a tender nugget. Whole milk will result in slightly richer nuggets, but 2% milk or skim milk also work. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or Vegetable Oil): Adds moisture and richness to the nuggets and helps with browning during baking. Olive oil or vegetable oil works well. Melted butter can also be used for a richer flavor, but oil is a healthier option.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Essential for savory flavor. Garlic powder adds a subtle but noticeable garlic note that enhances the overall taste of the nuggets.
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Enhances the savory depth of the nuggets. Onion powder works in synergy with garlic powder to create a well-rounded savory flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon Paprika (Smoked or Sweet): Adds a touch of color and subtle smoky or sweet flavor. Smoked paprika will impart a slightly smoky depth, while sweet paprika will add a milder, sweeter note and vibrant color. You can also use a combination of both.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning the nuggets and enhancing the overall flavor. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results. Adjust the amount of salt to your taste preference, especially if using salted breadcrumbs.
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its superior flavor.

For the Crispy Coating (Optional, but Recommended for Extra Crispiness):

• ½ cup Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): Used for coating the nuggets for extra crispiness during baking. Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for the coating as they provide a superior crispy texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes or potato chips for a crispy coating.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or Melted Butter): Used for tossing with the breadcrumbs to help them brown and crisp up during baking. Olive oil or melted butter works well. Melted butter will add a richer flavor, but olive oil is a healthier option.

Optional Seasonings for Coating (for added flavor):

• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, etc.: You can add a pinch of any of these seasonings to the breadcrumb coating to further enhance the flavor of the nuggets and customize the coating to your liking.

Instructions

Making these Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets is a breeze! Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create tender, juicy, and crispy nuggets that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these directions will guide you through each stage of the recipe, from mixing the ingredients to baking your golden nuggets:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the nuggets from sticking and makes for easy cleanup. You can also use a silicone baking mat.
2. Combine Nugget Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular), grated Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, milk (or plant-based milk), olive oil (or vegetable oil), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix and Combine Well: Use your hands or a spoon to mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the nuggets tough. Mix just until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold its shape when formed into nuggets.
4. Shape into Nuggets: Take approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and shape it into a nugget. You can make them any shape you like – round, oval, or classic nugget shapes. Place the shaped nuggets onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each nugget to ensure even baking and browning. Repeat until all the chicken mixture is used. For uniform nuggets, you can use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture.
5. Prepare Crispy Coating (Optional but Recommended): If you want extra crispy nuggets, prepare the breadcrumb coating. In a shallow bowl, combine the ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) with 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or melted butter). Toss with your fingers until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with oil or butter. You can add optional seasonings to the breadcrumbs at this stage, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.
6. Coat Nuggets with Breadcrumbs (Optional): If using the breadcrumb coating, gently roll each shaped chicken nugget in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Ensure the nuggets are evenly coated with breadcrumbs on all sides.
7. Bake the Chicken Nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken nuggets are cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken nuggets should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of a few nuggets to ensure they are cooked through.
8. Flip Nuggets Halfway Through (Optional for Even Browning): For more even browning, you can flip the chicken nuggets halfway through the baking time (after about 10-12 minutes). This ensures both sides of the nuggets get golden brown and crispy.
9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove the Baked Chicken Nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary significantly based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, type of breadcrumbs, and cooking oil. The following is an approximate guide per serving, assuming the recipe makes 4 servings, with 4-5 nuggets per serving, using lean ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil, without dipping sauces.)

• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 4-5 nuggets per serving)
• Calories per serving (approximate): 250-350 calories

Approximate Breakdown per serving:

• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 10-15g (primarily from ground chicken, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese)
• Saturated Fat: 3-5g (depending on ground chicken and Parmesan cheese)
• Cholesterol: 100-120mg (from egg and ground chicken)
• Sodium: 300-400mg (can vary significantly based on breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 1-2g (naturally occurring in milk and minimal added sugar)

Important Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use, and specify your serving size. Using regular breadcrumbs versus panko, adding a breadcrumb coating, and the type of ground chicken used (lean vs. regular) will all impact the nutritional values. Dipping sauces will add significantly to the calorie, fat, sugar, and sodium content.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (including mixing ingredients, shaping nuggets, and preparing coating)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes

How to Serve

These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets are incredibly versatile and kid-friendly, making them perfect for a variety of meals and occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your nugget experience:

• Classic Dipping Sauces:
  • Ketchup: The all-time classic nugget dipping sauce.
  • Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy favorite that complements chicken perfectly.
  • BBQ Sauce: Smoky and savory BBQ sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor.
  • Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing is always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Sweet and Sour Sauce: For an Asian-inspired twist, sweet and sour sauce is a great option.
  • Buffalo Sauce or Hot Sauce: For those who like a spicy kick, buffalo sauce or hot sauce is a must-try.
• Side Dish Pairings for a Complete Meal:
  • French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Classic nugget companions! Bake or air-fry fries for a healthier option.
  • Mashed Potatoes or Potato Wedges: Creamy mashed potatoes or seasoned potato wedges make a comforting and satisfying side.
  • Mac and Cheese: Cheesy mac and cheese is always a kid-friendly favorite.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, carrots, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal.
  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad or a Caesar salad provides a lighter and refreshing contrast to the nuggets.
  • Corn on the Cob or Creamed Corn: Sweet corn on the cob or creamy corn kernels are delicious and kid-approved sides.
  • Fruit Salad or Apple Slices: Offer a fruit salad or apple slices for a sweet and healthy side or dessert.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Nugget Wraps or Pitas: Wrap the chicken nuggets in warm tortillas or pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce for a fun and easy lunch or dinner.
  • Chicken Nugget Salad: Slice or chop the nuggets and add them to a green salad or Caesar salad for a protein-packed salad meal.
  • Nugget Bowls: Create customizable bowls with rice or quinoa, roasted vegetables, and chicken nuggets, drizzled with your favorite sauce.
  • Party Platter: Arrange the nuggets on a platter with various dipping sauces and side snacks for a fun and shareable party appetizer.
• Kid-Friendly Lunchbox Ideas:
  • Pack Nuggets in Lunchbox: Baked Chicken Nuggets are perfect for packing in lunchboxes. They are delicious cold or at room temperature.
  • Include Dipping Sauce in a Separate Container: Pack a small container of your child’s favorite dipping sauce alongside the nuggets.
  • Add Healthy Sides: Round out the lunchbox with healthy sides like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, grapes, apple slices, or yogurt.

Additional Tips for Perfect Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets

To ensure your Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets are always tender, juicy, and crispy, here are five essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overmix the Chicken Mixture: Overmixing the ground chicken mixture can result in tough nuggets. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined and evenly distributed. Gentle mixing is key for tender nuggets.
2. Shape Nuggets Uniformly for Even Cooking: Try to shape the chicken nuggets as uniformly as possible in size and thickness. This will ensure that they cook evenly in the oven and prevent some nuggets from being overcooked while others are undercooked. Using a cookie scoop can help create uniform portions.
3. Don’t Skip the Coating (for Extra Crispiness): While the nuggets are delicious even without the extra breadcrumb coating, coating them in breadcrumbs tossed with olive oil or melted butter significantly enhances their crispiness and texture. For restaurant-style crispy nuggets, the coating is highly recommended.
4. Bake at the Right Temperature and Don’t Overbake: Baking at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving golden brown and crispy nuggets without drying them out. Bake for 20-25 minutes and check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Overbaking can make the nuggets dry and tough. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Experiment with Seasonings and Flavors: This recipe is a great base, but feel free to experiment with different seasonings and flavors to customize your chicken nuggets. Try adding Italian seasoning, chili powder, Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or different herbs and spices to the chicken mixture or breadcrumb coating to create your own signature nugget flavors.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about making Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets with Ground Chicken, to help you troubleshoot and answer common queries:

Q1: Can I make these Chicken Nuggets ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken nugget mixture ahead of time. You can mix all the ingredients for the nuggets, shape them, and then store them unbaked on a baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled. Baked nuggets are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored (see next question).

Q2: How do I store and reheat leftover Baked Chicken Nuggets?

A: Leftover Baked Chicken Nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, the best way to regain some crispness is to reheat them in the oven or air fryer. Preheat oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again. Microwaving will reheat them quickly, but they will become softer and less crispy.

Q3: Can I freeze Baked Chicken Nuggets?

A: Yes, Baked Chicken Nuggets freeze very well, making them great for meal prepping. Allow the baked nuggets to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Then, transfer the frozen nuggets to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Q4: Can I make these Chicken Nuggets gluten-free?

A: Yes, absolutely! To make gluten-free Baked Chicken Nuggets, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, both in the nugget mixture and for the coating. Ensure you use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary for dietary restrictions. Crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes can also be used as a gluten-free coating option for extra crispiness.

Q5: Can I air fry these Chicken Nuggets instead of baking?

A: Yes, air frying is an excellent alternative to baking and will result in even crispier chicken nuggets in less time. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the shaped chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding). Air fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Air frying times may vary depending on your air fryer model and nugget size.

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