If you have been searching high and low for a nugget recipe that nails that satisfyingly crispy crust while still being baked to golden perfection, look no further. The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe is here to save your snack and dinner occasions with its crunchy panko coating, zesty spices, and juicy chicken centers. This recipe proves you don’t need a fryer to achieve that crave-worthy crunch that makes chicken nuggets an all-time favorite for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, these nuggets will quickly become the star of your table and a repeating request in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays an important role in building the ideal blend of texture, flavor, and irresistible color that will have you coming back for seconds.
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs: Their coarse texture creates the signature crunchy crust.
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray: Helps achieve a crispy, golden exterior without deep frying.
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a savory undertone to the coating.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a warm color and mild smoky flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a touch of aromatic complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat if you like a bit of spice.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the coating to the chicken perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice): Keeps the egg wash smooth and ensures even coverage.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes: The tender, juicy stars of the dish.
How to Make The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before we dive into coating those lovely chicken pieces, get your oven ready by setting it to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial to developing that exceptional crunch and beautiful golden color on the nuggets as they bake.
Step 2: Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs
Spread your panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet and give them a generous spray of nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Pop the tray into the hot oven for about 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan to redistribute the crumbs. Bake for another 2 to 4 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn a gorgeous golden brown. Toasting the panko not only intensifies the nutty flavor but also ensures maximum crispiness once baked on the chicken.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoned Breadcrumbs
Once toasted, transfer your golden panko crumbs into a medium bowl and mix in the kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper. This spice mix boosts every bite with layers of flavor, taking those crunchy nuggets to a professional tasting level with ease.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, whisk together your eggs and almond milk until fully blended. This mixture acts as the perfect glue, helping the seasoned breadcrumbs stick evenly to every chicken piece without overwhelming the tender meat inside.
Step 5: Set Up Your Baking Station
Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack and spray the rack generously with nonstick cooking spray. The wire rack allows hot air to circulate all around each nugget, ensuring every side crisps up beautifully without getting soggy bottoms.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken Nuggets
Now for the fun part! Dip each chicken cube into the egg wash and let the excess drip off. Then, use tongs to press the chicken firmly into the seasoned breadcrumbs, making sure each nugget is coated evenly. Place them spaced about an inch apart on your prepared wire rack. This careful spacing stops them from steaming and helps maintain crispiness all around.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken nuggets with nonstick cooking spray and bake them in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are a beautiful golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) confirms perfect doneness. The result is irresistibly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside bites that will have you hooked.
How to Serve The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh, crunchy bite to your nuggets with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely sliced green onions. These little extras brighten the presentation and add a fresh contrast to the warm, crispy nuggets.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your nuggets with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, crispy oven fries, or a colorful garden salad. Even a simple bowl of carrot and celery sticks with ranch dip makes for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your nuggets with a trio of dipping sauces presented in small bowls—think tangy honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, and classic barbecue sauce. Another creative option is to turn them into mini nugget sliders with fluffy buns, pickles, and a dollop of your favorite sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover nuggets (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezing
To enjoy these nuggets later, freeze them in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen nuggets last up to 2 months and are perfect for quick snacks or meals.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated nuggets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that amazing crunchy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can also be cut into nugget-sized pieces for this recipe. Keep an eye on cooking time as thighs may cook slightly faster due to their higher fat content.
Is almond milk necessary, or can I use something else?
Feel free to substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, including dairy milk or other plant-based options. The milk just helps thin out the egg wash for even coating.
How can I make these nuggets gluten-free?
Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative or crushed gluten-free cereal to keep the crunch without gluten.
Can I prepare these nuggets entirely ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken nuggets and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 6 hours before baking, which is convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests later in the day.
What dipping sauces go best with The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe?
Classic choices like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue, and spicy buffalo sauce all complement these nuggets wonderfully. Feel free to mix and match depending on your mood or guest preferences.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting about The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe that makes it a true kitchen superstar. It strikes the perfect balance of crispy, flavorful, and juicy without the need for deep frying. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—it’s sure to become a household favorite for snack time, casual dinners, and everything in between!
Print
The BEST Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This recipe delivers the best crispy baked chicken nuggets with a perfectly golden and crunchy coating. Using panko breadcrumbs toasted to enhance flavor, these nuggets are baked to juicy perfection without the guilt of frying. They’re easy to prepare and ideal for a family meal or snack.
Ingredients
Breadcrumb Coating
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Chicken and Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet. Spray them generously with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Bake for 2 minutes, then stir or shake the pan to redistribute, and bake for another 2-4 minutes until golden brown. Keep the oven heated.
- Mix spices: Transfer toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine and set aside.
- Combine eggs and milk: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and almond milk until fully blended. Set aside.
- Prepare baking setup: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack. Spray the wire rack generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Coat chicken: Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Using tongs, transfer each piece to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place coated chicken on the wire rack about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken nuggets with nonstick spray. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe wire rack to allow air circulation for crispiness.
- Press the breadcrumbs gently on the chicken to ensure an even coating.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C).
- Optional cayenne pepper adds a slight kick; adjust according to preference.
- Almond milk can be substituted with any milk of choice.
