Description

A quick, kid-approved recipe for crispy baked chicken nuggets that are ready in under 30 minutes. Using a double-coating method with panko and buttermilk, these nuggets offer a healthy-ish alternative to fried versions without sacrificing crunch or flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
Cooking spray (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and slice into 1-inch uniform cubes.
Set up three shallow bowls: one with buttermilk, one with whisked eggs (seasoned with salt and pepper), and one with panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then egg wash, then panko mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and panko steps (double-coat).
Place breaded nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or a parchment-lined sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with oil.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side with oil, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the coating to set.

Notes

For best results, do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even baking and crispiness. Letting the nuggets cool for a few minutes helps the crust set. You can freeze unbaked nuggets on a tray before bagging them for later use. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid the microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 15 nug
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 450
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 20
Fiber: 1
Protein: 30

Keywords: chicken nuggets, baked chicken, school lunch, kid-friendly recipes, healthy dinner, panko chicken, meal prep, quick recipes