Baked parmesan chicken nuggets

Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are a healthier variant of classic chicken nuggets, featuring chicken coated in a crispy mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan, seasoned with thyme and basil. They are baked to golden perfection, making for a quick and delicious meal.

02 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

6 chicken breasts
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 cup butter

Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are a healthier take on the traditional fried chicken nuggets, packed with the savory flavors of parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a quick and easy meal that both kids and adults will love.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-2 inches in size.

3. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, dried thyme, and dried basil. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

4. Melt the Butter:
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until it’s fully liquid. Be careful not to overheat.

5. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each piece of chicken in the melted butter, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Then, roll each butter-coated chicken piece in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.

6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the pieces do not touch each other to allow even cooking.

7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a nugget; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).

8. Serve:
Once baked, remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these tasty nuggets as a main dish or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce!

Serve the Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, honey mustard, or ranch. This delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken nuggets is sure to become a family favorite.

Baked parmesan chicken nuggets FAQ:

What is the baking time for baked parmesan chicken nuggets?

Bake the chicken nuggets for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye on them as they should be golden brown and cooked through.

How can I tell if the chicken nuggets are fully cooked?

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a nugget; it should read at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?

You can substitute grated parmesan cheese with pecorino romano or another hard cheese like asiago. Adjust the amount based on taste preference.

Can I store leftovers, and how should I do it?

Yes, store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.

What size should the chicken pieces be cut for the nuggets?

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-2 inches in size, to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

Tips:

- Cut chicken breasts into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

- For extra crispy nuggets, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.

- If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute butter with olive oil.

- Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the bread crumb mixture for extra flavor.

- Spray a light coat of cooking spray on the breaded chicken before baking to enhance browning and crispiness.

- Use a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around the nuggets, helping them cook more evenly.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 400kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 1.09g
Sugar 1.36g
Fat 22g

Baked parmesan chicken nuggets