Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken nuggets, you’ve landed in the right spot. This Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe delivers all the crunchy goodness you crave without the guilt. With just one pound of chicken breast and a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal that both kids and adults will love. Let’s get cooking!
Why It Works Every Time
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, the use of boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures a lean protein source, making it a healthy choice. The combination of potato flakes and corn flakes creates a delightful, crispy coating that rivals any fast-food nugget. Plus, baking instead of frying keeps the mess and extra calories at bay. You can feel good about serving these nuggets at any meal or snack time!
What Goes In
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- 1 tbsp potato flakes – Instant mashed potatoes work perfectly for adding flavor and texture.
- 1/3 cup cold water – Helps to mix with the potato flakes to create a batter.
- 1 tsp garlic salt – Provides a savory kick (or use 1/2 tsp garlic powder + 1/2 tsp salt).
- 1/8 tsp black pepper – For a touch of warmth.
- 2 1/2 cups corn flakes cereal – About 3/4 cup crushed for that perfect crunch.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – Finely grated for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Cutting board – For chopping the chicken into pieces.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the chicken and batter ingredients.
- Shallow dish – For the crushed corn flakes and Parmesan coating.
- Baking sheet – Line this with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Oven – Preheat to ensure even cooking.
Mastering Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe: How-To
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken nuggets bake evenly and develop that crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut your boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This allows for quick cooking and easy eating, especially for little ones.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the potato flakes and cold water. Stir until you have a smooth batter. Then, add the garlic salt and black pepper, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the potato batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Prepare the Corn Flake Coating
In a shallow dish, mix the crushed corn flakes with the finely grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will give your nuggets that satisfying crunch.
Step 6: Dredge in Corn Flakes
After coating the chicken in the batter, roll each piece in the corn flake mixture until well-coated. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 7: Bake the Nuggets
Place the coated chicken nuggets on a lined baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite!
Texture-Safe Substitutions
- Chicken breast – Use turkey breast for a leaner option.
- Potato flakes – Substitute with breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- Corn flakes – Use crushed rice cereal for a gluten-free alternative.
- Parmesan cheese – Try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Things That Go Wrong
- Coating not sticking – Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the batter before rolling in the corn flakes.
- Overbaking – Keep an eye on the nuggets; they can dry out if left in the oven too long.
- Uneven cooking – Ensure the nuggets are spaced out on the baking sheet to allow for even heat distribution.
- Too soggy – If the batter is too wet, add a bit more potato flakes to firm it up.
Save It for Later
These baked chicken nuggets are perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them after baking. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture, though they may alter the cooking time slightly. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless.
What dipping sauces go well with these nuggets?
These baked chicken nuggets pair wonderfully with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a homemade yogurt-based dip for a healthier option.
Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the corn flakes with a gluten-free cereal or crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How can I make these nuggets spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the batter or the corn flake coating for an extra kick!
More from the Kitchen
See You at the Table
With this Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never have to worry about serving a boring meal again. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun party appetizer, or a healthy snack. Enjoy the crunch, savor the flavor, and share them with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Cut your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine potato flakes and cold water to make a smooth batter. Add garlic salt and black pepper.
- Step 4: Dip each chicken piece into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
- Step 5: In a shallow dish, mix crushed corn flakes with Parmesan cheese.
- Step 6: Roll each chicken piece in the corn flake mixture until well-coated.
- Step 7: Place coated nuggets on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Step 8: Once baked, let cool slightly, serve with dipping sauces, and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freeze baked nuggets in a freezer-safe bag for later use.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
