Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, you have to try these Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs. This recipe transforms simple chicken into golden, crunchy nuggets with a perfect blend of garlic, parmesan, and fresh parsley that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing friends, or just treating yourself, these baked nuggets deliver that satisfying crispy texture without the extra oil from frying. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your new go-to comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — using just a handful of ingredients that each bring a unique touch to the flavor and texture of the nuggets. Every item on this list plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken breast to the crispy, golden panko breadcrumbs, ensuring you get that perfect bite every time.

• Chicken breast (1 1/2 pounds, cubed): The star of the dish, providing juicy and tender meat.
• Melted butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps the seasoning and crumbs stick beautifully.
• Garlic salt (1 teaspoon): Infuses the nuggets with a savory, garlicky punch.
• Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle heat and depth to the flavor.
• Fresh chopped parsley (2 tablespoons) or parsley flakes (1 tablespoon): Brings a nice herbaceous freshness and vibrant color.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): This is what gives your nuggets that signature crisp and light crunch.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a delicious, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy coating.

How to Make Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing a piece of plastic wrap on your cutting board and then lay your chicken breast on top. Fold the wrap over so the chicken is fully covered—this keeps the workspace clean and prevents flying chicken bits! Lightly pound the chicken with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it’s an even 3/4 inch thick, ensuring each nugget cooks evenly. Remove the plastic wrap and cut the chicken into 1-inch strips, then further into 1-inch cubes for perfectly bite-sized nuggets.

Step 2: Pre-Bake the Panko Breadcrumbs

This step is a secret weapon for unbeatable crunch. Spread your panko breadcrumbs on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated 450°F oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn golden brown. Pre-baking deepens their flavor and guarantees an ultra-crispy crust after baking the nuggets.

Step 3: Make the Dipping Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic salt, black pepper, and parsley until everything is evenly mixed. This savory butter blend coats the chicken perfectly, providing a flavorful glue for the panko crust. In another bowl, mix the pre-baked panko breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese—this combo is what makes these nuggets stand out with a toasty and cheesy crust you’ll adore.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Toss all the cubed chicken in the butter mixture, making sure every piece is well coated—work quickly, as the butter tends to solidify as it cools. Then drop each piece into the panko and parmesan mix, turning them to get an even, thick coating. Place the coated nuggets on a baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between each one. This space ensures they’ll bake up crisp on all sides instead of steaming.

Step 5: Bake the Nuggets

Bake your delicious baked chicken nuggets with panko breadcrumbs in the center rack of the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. For an extra golden-brown top, move them to the top rack in the last few minutes of baking. If you’re using an air fryer, place the nuggets in a single layer inside the basket—lightly spray with cooking oil if desired. Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, shake the basket to turn the nuggets, then cook for an additional 2 minutes. This method locks in crispiness without the mess of frying.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

After baking, let your chicken nuggets rest on the counter for 2 to 3 minutes. This little bit of patience lets the juices settle and ensures you get tender, juicy bites every time. Now, your Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs are ready to wow everyone at your table!

How to Serve Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley add a pop of color and freshness that brighten the plate. A wedge of lemon on the side is also perfect for those who love a slight zesty kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery crunch of the nuggets.

Side Dishes

Pair these nuggets with classic sides like crispy oven fries or a fresh garden salad to create a satisfying meal. For a healthy twist, steamed veggies or a creamy coleslaw work wonderfully. The possibilities are endless, making these nuggets a versatile choice for any mealtime!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and casual presentation, serve the nuggets in a basket lined with parchment paper, accompanied by a trio of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, and cool ranch. For kids’ parties or appetizers, thread the nuggets onto skewers alternating with colorful veggies or cheese cubes for an eye-catching treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy your crispy delights later without any hassle.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Freeze the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them from sticking together so you can grab just the number you want. They’ll keep well frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat and bring back the crispy goodness, pop the nuggets in a 375°F oven or air fryer for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. A quick reheat in the oven keeps that irresistible crunch intact.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor, but keep in mind they may need a slightly longer bake time due to their higher fat content.

Is it necessary to pre-bake the panko breadcrumbs?

Pre-baking the panko is a game-changer! It gives them a golden color and a crunch that lasts. You can skip it for a quicker version, but the texture won’t be quite the same.

Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free panko alternative and confirm that your parmesan cheese is gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays the same.

What dipping sauces go best with these nuggets?

Classic choices like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or even spicy mayo complement the flavors wonderfully. You can also experiment with sweet chili or garlic aioli to mix things up.

How do I ensure the nuggets stay crispy after baking?

Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so air can circulate properly. Letting the nuggets rest uncovered before serving also helps maintain that perfect crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about biting into golden, crispy Delicious Baked Chicken Nuggets With Panko Breadcrumbs that you just can’t get enough of. They’re simple to make, incredibly tasty, and perfect for any occasion whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun party snack. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen too!

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