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To make these tasty chicken nuggets, you'll need a few key ingredients: - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs - 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt - 2 large eggs - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - Cooking spray These ingredients provide great flavor and a crispy texture. Whole wheat bread crumbs add fiber, while parmesan gives a rich taste. You can swap some ingredients for an even healthier option. Use almond flour instead of bread crumbs for gluten-free nuggets. If you're avoiding cheese, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a lighter option, use egg whites instead of whole eggs. These small changes can make your nuggets even better for you! Each serving of these chicken nuggets packs a punch. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional info: - Calories: 250 - Protein: 30g - Carbohydrates: 20g - Fat: 10g - Fiber: 3g This makes for a balanced meal! You can enjoy them guilt-free. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. First, gather your ingredients. You will need chicken breasts, whole wheat bread crumbs, and spices. Also, have eggs and olive oil ready. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the nuggets cook evenly. 1. Prepare the baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray. 2. Mix the dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine whole wheat bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir well. 3. Prepare the egg mixture. In another bowl, crack two eggs and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Whisk until smooth. 4. Coat the chicken. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, letting the extra drip off. Then roll it in the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently to help the crumbs stick. 5. Arrange on the sheet. Place the coated chicken nuggets on your baking sheet. Leave space between each one for even cooking. 6. Spray the tops. Lightly spray the nuggets with cooking spray. This helps them get crispy. 7. Bake. Put the baking sheet in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Flip the nuggets halfway through for a nice golden finish. 8. Cool and serve. Once done, let the nuggets cool for a few minutes before enjoying. To cook evenly, keep nuggets similar in size. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures all pieces are safe to eat. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Proper air circulation helps them crisp up nicely. To make your chicken nuggets super crispy, use whole wheat bread crumbs. They add texture and flavor. Make sure to coat them well in the breading mix. A light spray of cooking oil helps too. This step encourages a golden finish. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space. Air needs to flow for even cooking. One common mistake is skipping the egg wash. It helps the breading stick. Another mistake is not preheating the oven. A hot oven ensures the nuggets cook right. Flipping them halfway is key. This makes both sides crispy. Lastly, avoid overcooking. Check the chicken to ensure it's fully cooked but not dry. Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, use an oven instead of a microwave. The oven keeps them crispy. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10 minutes. This way, they regain their crunch. Enjoy your delicious homemade healthy chicken nuggets again! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can boost the flavor of your chicken nuggets by adding spices and herbs. Try using: - Cumin for a warm, earthy taste. - Oregano for a hint of Mediterranean flair. - Chili powder for some heat. - Dried thyme for a fresh, herby note. Mix these spices into your breadcrumb coating for unique flavors. You can also add fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for a pop of freshness. If you need a gluten-free option, swap whole wheat breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can make your own using ground oats or rice. For a vegan twist, use: - Chickpea flour mixed with water instead of eggs. - Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. These changes keep the nuggets tasty while catering to dietary needs. Dipping sauces can enhance your chicken nuggets. Here are some popular choices: - Honey mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor. - Barbecue sauce for a smoky, rich taste. - Ranch dressing for a creamy, herby option. - Salsa for a fresh kick. Feel free to mix and match sauces to find your favorite pairings! To keep your homemade chicken nuggets fresh, store them in an airtight container. Let them cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Keep the container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. To freeze your nuggets, first, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about one to two hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date for easy reference. Homemade chicken nuggets can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen nuggets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the nuggets on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are hot and crispy. If you’re using fresh nuggets, just reheat them in the same way for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crunchy and delicious. To make chicken nuggets healthier, choose lean chicken and whole wheat crumbs. Use less oil and cheese. You can also add spices for flavor instead of extra fat. This way, you keep taste while cutting down on calories. Yes, you can air fry these nuggets! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets in a single layer in the fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives them a crispy exterior and juicy inside without much oil. Many sauces go well with chicken nuggets. Here are some favorites: - Honey mustard - BBQ sauce - Ketchup - Ranch dressing - Sweet and sour sauce Feel free to mix and match based on your taste! Check if the chicken nuggets are done by cutting one open. The inside should be white, not pink. You can also use a meat thermometer. The safe cooking temperature for chicken is 165°F (75°C). When they are crispy and golden, they are ready to enjoy! Homemade chicken nuggets can be healthy and tasty. We explored key ingredients, cooking steps, and storage tips. You can use healthier swaps and make them gluten-free or vegan. Remember to add spices for flavor and crispiness. Store any extras safely for later. With these insights, you can create delicious chicken nuggets anytime. Enjoy the process and make your meals memorable. Your cooking journey starts now!

Homemade Healthy Chicken Nuggets

Enjoy delicious and healthy crispy oven-baked chicken nuggets that everyone will love! This easy recipe uses simple ingredients like whole wheat bread crumbs and parmesan cheese, creating a crunchy coating that is packed with flavor. Perfect for dinner or a snack, these nuggets are baked to perfection in just 35 minutes. Click through to discover how to make this family favorite and impress your loved ones with your cooking skills!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs

1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Cooking spray

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, then lightly coat it with cooking spray for a non-stick surface.

    In a generous mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat bread crumbs with the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly blended, creating a flavorful coating mix.

      In another bowl, crack the two eggs and add the olive oil. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

        Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip back into the bowl, then roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.

          Arrange the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each nugget for optimal air circulation and even cooking.

            Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray to encourage a golden, crispy texture as they bake.

              Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Halfway through, flip them over for an even golden brown finish. They are ready when the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the nuggets are crispy and delightful.

                Once baked, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Elevate your serving by arranging the chicken nuggets on a vibrant platter. Pair them with a side of homemade honey mustard or a fresh vegetable dip, and garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for an inviting look that’s sure to impress!