Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets: A Healthy and Crispy Treat

If you’re looking for a delicious, kid-approved meal that’s also a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken nuggets, Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are the perfect solution. These bite-sized pieces are coated with a flavorful Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked to crispy perfection. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, packing school lunches, or hosting friends, these nuggets are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these nuggets are lower in fat but just as crispy and flavorful.
• Packed with Flavor: Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic add a savory kick.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfectly sized for little hands, they’re a fun and nutritious meal.
• Simple to Make: With easy steps and basic ingredients, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty nuggets:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter (melted)	½ cup
Minced garlic	1 tsp
Dried breadcrumbs	1 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	⅓ cup
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp
Kosher salt	¼ tsp
Garlic salt (or regular salt)	¼ tsp
Dried Italian seasoning	Large pinch
Ground black pepper	⅛ tsp
Chicken breasts or thighs	2 lbs (cut into 1–2” pieces)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F.
2. Position a rack in the center of the oven.

2. Prep the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken pieces dry using paper towels.
2. Drying the chicken ensures that the breadcrumb coating sticks better and the nuggets bake up crispy.

3. Prepare the Butter and Breadcrumb Mixtures

1. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic into the melted butter.
2. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, kosher salt, garlic salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.

4. Coat the Chicken Pieces

1. One piece at a time, dip the chicken into the garlic butter mixture.
2. Dredge the butter-coated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

Tip: If the butter begins to thicken due to cold chicken, reheat it slightly to make dipping easier.

5. Arrange on a Baking Pan

1. Place the coated chicken pieces on a 9×13-inch roasting pan or larger.
2. Ensure there’s a little space between each piece for proper air circulation. Use an additional pan if necessary.
3. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top for extra flavor.

6. Bake the Nuggets

1. Bake the chicken nuggets at 450°F for 15 minutes.
2. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
3. Remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Why These Chicken Nuggets Are Perfect for Any Occasion

• Family Dinners: Pair them with veggies and mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
• Snacks and Appetizers: Serve with a variety of dips like ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
• Meal Prep: These nuggets can be made ahead and reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

Tips for the Best Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

1. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded.
2. Cut Even Pieces: Ensure all chicken pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Allow space between the nuggets to ensure they bake evenly and get crispy.
4. Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the nuggets to prevent over-browning, especially if using a dark, non-stick pan.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the breadcrumbs for extra cheesiness.
• Herb-Infused: Swap parsley for fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

These nuggets pair beautifully with various sides and dips:

Sides

• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and savory combination.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp greens balance the rich nuggets.

Dips

• Marinara Sauce: For an Italian-inspired twist.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy, garlicky pairing.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who love some heat.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx. 4 Nuggets)
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	27 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	1 g

FAQs About Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly for this recipe.

2. Can I freeze the nuggets?

Absolutely. Freeze uncooked coated nuggets on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat the nuggets in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through.

4. Can I use panko breadcrumbs?

Yes, panko breadcrumbs create an even crispier texture and are a great substitute.

5. What’s the best way to make the nuggets extra crispy?

Using a wire rack on your baking pan helps the nuggets crisp up evenly by allowing air to circulate underneath.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Why You Should Try Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

This recipe combines the best of flavor, health, and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for kids, hosting a party, or prepping meals for the week, Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are a versatile and satisfying choice. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with just the right amount of seasoning to make every bite irresistible.

Your Turn to Cook

Are you ready to make these Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets a household favorite? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic happen. Serve them with your favorite sides and dips, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “Parmesan!”

Happy cooking! 🍗🧀

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