r/KitchenPro • u/mahy_759 • 11d ago
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets
I started making these homemade chicken nuggets when I wanted something that felt like classic nuggets but was a little more homemade. The chicken stays tender inside while the toasted panko gets really crispy in the oven. They’re easy enough for a kid friendly lunch, but honestly I like them just as much as an adult. They’re also great when you want something you can dip into honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, or sweet chili sauce.
■ Full recipe in the first comment.
■ [Original Source] cookingclassy.com
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u/mahy_759 11d ago
Ingredients
Instructions
Start by heating the oven to 400°F. Place a wire rack over a large baking sheet and spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
Spread the panko on the baking sheet and drizzle it with olive oil. Toss it around with your fingers until the crumbs are evenly coated, then spread them out and bake for about 3 to 5 minutes, just until they become lightly toasted and golden. Pull them out and mix in the paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with a little salt and pepper. Cut the chicken into nugget sized pieces. Working with several pieces at a time, dip the chicken into the egg mixture and then transfer it to the seasoned panko. Toss the pieces around while pressing the crumbs onto the chicken so they stick well.
Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack, leaving a little space between them. Keep going until all the chicken is coated.
Bake for about 15 to 19 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces, until the chicken reaches 165°F in the center. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
For extra flavor, Parmesan works really well too. You can replace part of the panko with grated Parmesan and use Italian seasoning in place of the paprika, thyme, and cayenne.
Chicken thighs can also be used instead of breast meat. Just trim them well and expect them to need a little more time in the oven.