• 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.