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The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

The Best Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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4.6 from 101 reviews

These baked chicken nuggets are made from real chicken breast, coated in a flavorful Parmesan and herb breadcrumb mixture, then baked to crispy perfection. Healthier than their fried counterparts, they’re juicy on the inside, with a golden, cheesy crust on the outside—a family-friendly favorite that’s quick and easy to make.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken Nuggets

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed

For the Breading

  • 1 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For Coating

  • 1/2 cup salted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease one or two baking sheets to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
  2. Cube the Chicken: Cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast into small, bite-sized nugget pieces for even cooking and easy coating.
  3. Prepare the Breading: In a small mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir well to mix the herbs and cheese evenly throughout the crumbs.
  4. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter by heating on medium power in 30-second increments. Stir between intervals until fully melted.
  5. Coat the Chicken: Working one at a time or in small batches, dip each chicken piece into the melted butter to coat it thoroughly. Transfer the coated chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture and roll to cover completely before placing it on the prepared baking sheet. Leave at least 1 inch of space between each piece for even heat circulation.
  6. Bake: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the outsides are golden brown. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and no longer be pink in the middle.

Notes

  • You can substitute 1/2 cup buttermilk for the melted butter for a lighter option.
  • Try adding different herbs or spices to customize the coating to your taste.
  • Bake on a rack set over the baking sheet for even crispiness on all sides.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to restore crispiness.
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 333 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 870 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 96 mg