These Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets are a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought nuggets. Packed with flavor and baked to crispy perfection, they are sure to become a kid-friendly favorite! Perfect for picky eaters, this easy recipe makes lunch or dinner both fun and nutritious.
Recipe Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 280 per serving
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets:
These Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets are the perfect kid-friendly recipe for lunch or dinner. With a crispy, golden crust and a cheesy, tender center, they’re a healthier option than fast food, and they’re sure to become a household favorite. They’re easy to make, require just a few ingredients, and are baked instead of fried, making them a wholesome choice for parents and a tasty treat for kids.
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – for a crispy coating
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds cheesy flavor
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – for extra cheesiness
- 2 large eggs – for coating the chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for extra flavor
- ½ teaspoon paprika – adds a mild spice
- Salt and pepper to taste – enhances the flavor
- Olive oil spray – for baking
How to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 4: Bake the Nuggets
- Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Spray them lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve these cheesy chicken nuggets with your child’s favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard. Pair them with a side of veggies or fries for a complete kid-friendly meal.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets:
- Cut Chicken Evenly: Make sure your chicken pieces are of equal size for even cooking.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and cheddar will melt better and add more flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the nuggets so they don’t dry out.
Delicious Variations to Try:
- Spicy Chicken Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Nuggets: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Vegetable Nuggets: Substitute chicken with cauliflower or zucchini for a veggie-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Can I Make These Nuggets Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the nuggets and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
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What’s the Best Dipping Sauce?
Kids love dipping these nuggets in ketchup, ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 30g
These Cheesy Baked Chicken Nuggets are the ultimate kid-friendly recipe that’s both delicious and healthy. Baked instead of fried, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for picky eaters and busy parents, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve them with your child’s favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!