Healthy Baked Chicken Nuggets
These Healthy Baked Chicken Nuggets are crispy, juicy, and guilt-free! Made with wholesome ingredients, they're a delicious twist on classic comfort food.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 16 ounces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- to taste black pepper
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons panko
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- olive oil spray for misting
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Cut each breast into evenly sized bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches. Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing gently to coat.
Combine the Coating
- In a medium bowl, mix together the whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, panko, and grated parmesan cheese.
Oil the Chicken Pieces
- Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned chicken pieces, tossing well to evenly coat each piece.
Bread the Nuggets
- Working in batches, toss the chicken pieces into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well. Place each coated nugget onto the prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Spray and Bake
- Lightly spray the nuggets with olive oil spray to promote crispiness. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The nuggets are done when golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove nuggets from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside fresh veggies for a wholesome meal.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Mixing Bowls
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Cooking Spray
- Meat Thermometer
Notes
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking and consistent crispiness.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help the coating stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space for hot air circulation.
- Use a light spray of olive oil instead of drenching in oil for a healthier crisp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to keep crispiness.