Description
Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets bring Italian-inspired comfort to classic finger food. Perfectly seasoned breading and golden-brown edges make these homemade nuggets irresistible for you to enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1– to 2-inch pieces
Breading and Cheese:
- 1 cup dried breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt (or regular salt)
- Large pinch dried Italian seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Calibrate the oven to 450°F (232°C). Meticulously blot chicken pieces with absorbent paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, guaranteeing a crisp exterior coating.
- Create the flavor foundation by gently melting butter and incorporating finely minced garlic into a uniform mixture. Simultaneously, blend breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, kosher salt, granulated garlic powder, traditional Italian herb blend, and freshly ground black pepper in a separate shallow dish.
- Transform each chicken morsel into a delectable nugget by first immersing it thoroughly in the aromatic garlic-infused butter, ensuring complete coverage. Immediately transfer the butter-coated piece into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to achieve a comprehensive, even crust.
- Arrange the breaded chicken nuggets on a non-stick baking sheet, maintaining slight separation between pieces to promote uniform crisping. Position in the preheated oven and roast uncovered for approximately 15 minutes, rotating the pan midway for consistent browning.
- Verify doneness by confirming the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a reliable meat thermometer. Remove from oven and allow nuggets to rest for 3-4 minutes, enabling the crisp coating to set and juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Notes
- Meal prep champions can slice and coat chicken pieces a day ahead, storing them covered in the refrigerator for maximum convenience.
- Leftover nuggets stay deliciously crispy when reheated in an air fryer or toaster oven at 375°F for 5-6 minutes.
- Homemade breadcrumbs elevate the texture, offering a more rustic and personalized crunch compared to store-bought versions.
- Kids and adults alike will love dunking these nuggets in marinara sauce, ranch, or honey mustard for an extra flavor boost.
- Gluten-free friends can swap regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko for an equally crispy alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg