Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets – Crispy, Juicy & Perfect for Kids and Adults!

Looking for a healthy, crispy, and kid-approved dinner idea that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets are exactly what you need. With a golden, crunchy coating and juicy tender meat inside, these homemade chicken nuggets offer all the comfort of classic fast food—but baked instead of fried, and made with wholesome ingredients.

Perfect for weeknight meals , lunchboxes , or as a quick snack, these oven-baked chicken bites come together in under 30 minutes and use simple pantry staples. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something crispy and satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect baked chicken nuggets from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get cooking!

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Why You’ll Love These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets

These aren’t just any old breaded chicken strips—they’re a crunchy, flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold taste and texture together beautifully.

Here’s why they stand out:

• 🍗 Juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside : The perfect bite of chicken perfection.
• 🥣 Simple ingredients : No fancy spices or hard-to-find items.
• 🧂 No deep frying required : Baked to golden crispiness without oil splatters.
• ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes
• 🧁 Great for picky eaters and adults alike
• 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One bowl and a baking sheet = easy prep!
• 🐄 Dairy-free option available

Whether you’re making them for your kids, yourself, or guests at a dinner party, these baked chicken nuggets will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Nuggets:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for low-carb/keto)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (or flax egg for vegan version)
• 2 tbsp milk or water (optional, for egg wash thinning)

Optional: Dipped in melted butter before baking for extra crispiness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.

Place a wire rack over the baking sheet if possible—this allows air circulation for crispier results.

Step 2: Cut the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces , about 1–2 inches thick.

Pat dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick better and crisp up nicely.

Tip: Use chicken tenders for even easier cutting and consistent size.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl or plate, mix together:

• Breadcrumbs (or almond flour/pork rinds)
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper

Pro Tip: For extra crunch, mix in grated Parmesan cheese or crushed nuts/seeds.

Step 4: Dip the Chicken Pieces

Set up a breading station:

• Bowl 1: Beaten egg + milk/water (egg wash)
• Bowl 2: Dry breadcrumb mixture

Dip each chicken piece in the egg wash first, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Bake for 15–18 minutes , flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden brown and crispy.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) .

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like:

• Honey mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Ketchup
• Sriracha mayo

Enjoy every crispy, juicy bite of your Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets !

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~250 kcal
Total Fat	~12 g
Saturated Fat	~3 g
Cholesterol	~60 mg
Sodium	~400 mg
Total Carbs	~15 g
Dietary Fiber	~1 g
Net Carbs	~14 g
Protein	~20 g

Note: Values may vary slightly depending on brand and exact measurements.

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Tips for the Best Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets

1. Use thick-cut chicken – Prevents drying out during baking.
2. Don’t skip the flip – Ensures even browning and crispiness on all sides.
3. Add a butter brush – Brush the tops lightly with melted butter before baking for deeper color and crunch.
4. Double-dip for extra crust – Dip in egg wash, then crumbs, then egg again, and back into crumbs for thicker coating.
5. Make ahead and freeze – Freeze uncooked nuggets on a tray, then store in bags for future baking.

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Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:

Low-Carb/Keto Option

Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or coconut flour.

Vegan Option

Use tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives with flax egg and dairy-free seasoning.

Spicy Cajun Style

Mix in cajun seasoning or add hot sauce to the egg wash for heat.

Cheesy Chicken Nuggets

Blend shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the chicken before forming.

Air Fryer Method

Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, for extra crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Just thaw first for best results—frozen chicken releases moisture and can affect crispiness.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, if using certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour/pork rinds.

How do I store leftover nuggets?

Store cooled nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

What kind of sweetener works best?

If using keto breadcrumbs, choose erythritol or monk fruit for any optional honey or sweet dips.

Can I freeze them?

Yes! Freeze cooked or uncooked nuggets in layers with parchment paper between. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:

• The chicken stays tender and juicy thanks to proper thickness and baking method.
• The breadcrumb coating crisps up beautifully , giving that satisfying crunch.
• And the simple seasoning brings out natural chicken flavor without overpowering.

It’s the kind of dish that makes eating healthy feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.

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Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative ways to serve your chicken nuggets beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:

In Wraps

Wrap in large lettuce leaves or grain-free tortillas with avocado and slaw.

Over Greens

Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and ranch vinaigrette for a hearty salad.

As Meal Prep

Pack with roasted broccoli, cauliflower rice, or coleslaw for balanced lunches.

With Veggies

Pair with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or zucchini fries for dipping.

At a Party

Cut into mini bites and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer-style servings.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:

Chicken Breast

High in lean protein, supports muscle growth and satiety.

Garlic & Herbs

Natural anti-inflammatories that support immune function and digestion.

Eggs & Breadcrumbs

Provide structure and binding while adding flavor and texture.

Even though these are chicken nuggets, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a snack—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Family-Friendly Dinner

These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be unhealthy or messy. With their crispy exterior, juicy meat inside, and bold seasoning, they’re the kind of dish that turns simple chicken into something magical.

Whether you’re doing Whole30, keto, or just want a healthier alternative to fast food, these chicken nuggets deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.

So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with family, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something truly special.

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