Chicken Breast Nuggets: American Baked Breaded Chicken
These chicken breast nuggets are a staple of American appetisers. They consist of skin-free chicken breast cut into bite-size cubes and coated in a mixture of panko, plain breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a savoury, golden-brown exterior that contrasts with the tender meat inside. You serve them hot with a dipping sauce and fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Pat the chicken cubes dry with a paper towel before coating them. Excess moisture prevents the egg-butter mixture from adhering, which causes the breadcrumbs to peel away during baking. You must also transfer the nuggets to a wire rack to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle so the meat remains moist while the coating stays crisp. Without this rest, the steam softens the crust and ruins the texture.
Chicken Breast Nuggets: American Baked Breaded Chicken
Recipe cardIngredients
Watch how it's made
Instructions
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Prepare the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the breading from sticking to the metal.
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Mix the breadcrumbs
Combine the panko, plain breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. Mix them thoroughly. This ensures every nugget has a consistent flavour profile.
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Prepare the binder
Whisk the egg and melted butter together in a second bowl until the mixture is smooth. The butter adds richness to the coating.
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Coat the chicken
Pat the chicken cubes dry with a paper towel so the binder adheres better. Dip each cube into the egg-butter mixture and then the breadcrumb mix. Shake off excess crumbs and arrange them on the sheet with space between each piece.
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Apply the oil
Lightly spray or brush the coated nuggets with a thin layer of olive oil. This helps the coating caramelise and become golden-brown in the heat.
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Bake the nuggets
Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through. Ensure the centre of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F). Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
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Rest the meat
Transfer the nuggets to a wire rack. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes. This lets the juices settle so the meat remains moist.
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If the nuggets touch, the sides will remain pale and soft rather than crisp. Ensure there is a small gap between each piece to allow hot air to circulate and brown the coating evenly.
What to serve with it
Pair these nuggets with a sweet chili dip or a tangy honey-mustard sauce to provide a flavourful contrast. For a balanced meal, serve them with a creamy garlic mayo and a fresh garden salad. Finish the plate with a squeeze of lemon or chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Storing and reheating
Keep leftover nuggets in a sealed container at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. For long-term storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 190°C (375°F) for 10 minutes to regain crispness.
Nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 215
- Protein
- 16.2 g
- Carbs
- 14.5 g
- Fat
- 9.8 g
- Fiber
- 1.1 g
- Sugar
- 1.2 g
Estimated, and offered as a guide rather than a medical figure.
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Questions people ask
Can you use chicken breasts for chicken nuggets?
Yes. Use skin-free chicken breast cut into bite-size cubes. This lean cut ensures the nuggets cook evenly and stay firm while the breadcrumb coating becomes golden and crispy in the oven.
How to make 3 ingredient chicken nuggets?
No. This recipe requires a specific combination of breadcrumbs, binders, and seasonings to ensure the coating adheres. Using only three ingredients would remove the necessary seasoning and the Parmesan for a savoury flavour.
What is the best binder for chicken nuggets?
A mixture of egg and melted butter works best here. The egg binds the crumbs to the meat, while the butter adds richness and helps the coating brown more effectively during baking.
About the author
Mary C. Rivero
Mary C. Rivero specializes in comforting home‑cooked meals, from hearty pastas and sheet‑pan dinners to quick weeknight snacks. Her recipes feature clear, step‑by‑step directions and practical tips, helping readers create flavorful dishes with confidence and ease.
