Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy chicken nugget that's not only delicious but also healthier than your typical fast-food version. These low-fat chicken nuggets are about to revolutionize your meal prep, offering a mouthwatering alternative that satisfies your comfort food cravings without the extra calories. Whether you're a health-conscious parent, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good chicken nugget, this recipe will become your new go-to favorite that proves healthy eating can be absolutely irresistible!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help achieve a crispy texture on the chicken nuggets without the need for frying.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This will prevent the nuggets from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, combine the whole wheat breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
- In another bowl, beat the egg until it is well mixed. This will be used to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken pieces.
- Take the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and dip each piece into the beaten egg, making sure it is fully coated.
- After coating the chicken in the egg, transfer each piece to the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the chicken gently into the breadcrumbs to ensure they are well-coated on all sides.
- Once all the chicken pieces are coated, place them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is some space between each nugget to allow for even cooking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken nuggets for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly.
- To check if the chicken nuggets are done, use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken nuggets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed as is or served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Use fresh chicken breast for the best texture and flavor. Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, consider adding a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumb mixture.
- If you want to make these nuggets gluten-free, substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave space between nuggets to ensure they crisp up evenly and don't steam.
- For added flavor, experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, dried herbs, or a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick.
- To keep the nuggets moist, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- These nuggets can be prepared ahead of time and frozen. Simply reheat in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
