Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

Golden, crunchy, and irresistibly seasoned, these Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are a delicious homemade alternative to fast food — healthier, more flavorful, and perfect for both kids and adults. Each piece is coated in a cheesy breadcrumb crust, baked to perfection, and sprinkled with savory seasonings for a satisfying crunch in every bite. Ideal for parties, family dinners, lunchboxes, or game-day snacking, these nuggets are a crowd-pleasing favorite that are easy to prepare and hard to resist.

Introduction

There is something incredibly comforting about crispy chicken nuggets — but these aren’t just any nuggets. Made with real chicken, coated in a rich Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, and oven-baked until golden and crunchy, they offer all the indulgence of fried chicken with a lighter, healthier twist. The outside is crisp and flavorful while the inside stays juicy, tender, and full of mouthwatering goodness. These nuggets are perfect for dipping, sharing, and enjoying any day of the week.

Ingredients

For the Nuggets:

• 1.5 to 2 lbs (700–900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders

• 1 cup (120 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 ½ cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs

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• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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• 2 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons milk or water

• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Seasoning Topping (for extra crunch):

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

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• 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

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

2. Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces, roughly 1 to 1½ inches each. Pat dry with paper towels for better coating.

3. Make the Breading Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

4. Prepare the Egg Wash
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

5. Coat the Chicken Nuggets
Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, then into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.

6. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between them for even baking.

7. Add Extra Crunch (Optional)
Mix the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt — sprinkle this topping over the nuggets for added flavor and texture (similar to “Everything seasoning”).

8. Bake to Perfection
Lightly brush or spray the nuggets with melted butter or oil. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

9. Optional Crisping
For extra crunch, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end — watching closely to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with your favorite dipping sauces:

• Honey mustard

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• Barbecue sauce

• Ranch dressing

• Spicy Buffalo sauce

• Garlic aioli

Perfect for:

• Family dinners

• School lunchboxes

• Game-day snacks

• Movie nights

• Party trays and potlucks

Pair with a side of roasted veggies, fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad to complete the meal.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze: Arrange the nuggets on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or air fry to restore crispness.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are everything homemade comfort food should be — tasty, crunchy, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. With their golden Parmesan coating, juicy interior, and customizable seasoning options, they’re far better than anything from the freezer aisle or drive-thru. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.