The Only Way To Cook Chicken Nuggets In The Oven – You’ll Never Cook Them The Same Way Again!

Craving crispy, juicy chicken nuggets without the hassle of deep-frying? Look no further than your trusty oven! Cooking chicken nuggets in the oven is a breeze, and you’ll end up with a healthier, equally delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.

2. Make the breading: In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Dip the chicken: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Place on the baking sheet: Arrange the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray.

5. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through.

6. Flip halfway: For even cooking, flip the nuggets halfway through the baking time.

7. Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips:

• For extra crispy nuggets, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg mixture, then back into the breadcrumb mixture.
• If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can make your own by crushing crackers or cornflakes.
• For a healthier option, use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or bake the nuggets on a wire rack to drain excess fat.
• Season the breadcrumbs to your taste. You can add herbs, spices, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Variations:

• Spicy Chicken Nuggets: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Cheesy Chicken Nuggets: Mix 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Buffalo Chicken Nuggets: Toss cooked nuggets in your favorite buffalo sauce.
• Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets: Combine 1/4 cup of honey and 1/4 cup of soy sauce. Brush over cooked nuggets and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked nuggets in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place nuggets on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.

Crispy Chicken Nuggets: A Culinary Conclusion

Cooking chicken nuggets in the oven is a simple yet satisfying culinary endeavor. With just a few ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a crispy, juicy treat that will delight the whole family. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, an appetizer, or a meal, oven-baked chicken nuggets are a versatile and delicious dish that deserves a special place in your cookbook.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen chicken nuggets in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken nuggets. However, you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper?
A: You can use aluminum foil instead. Spray the foil lightly with cooking spray to prevent the nuggets from sticking.

Q: Can I bake chicken nuggets on a wire rack?
A: Yes, baking chicken nuggets on a wire rack will help them get even crispier. Place the wire rack on a baking sheet and bake as directed.