Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

1. Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Egg Wash: In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.
3. Breadcrumb Mixture: In a third shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Coat in Flour: Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip in Egg: Dip the floured chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Coat in Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Place Nuggets on Sheet: Arrange the breaded chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the tops of the nuggets with olive oil or melted butter. This helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake the Nuggets

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning the nuggets halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool: Allow the chicken nuggets to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the homemade chicken nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Chicken Nuggets:

• Even Sizes: Cut the chicken pieces into even sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
• Crispy Coating: For extra crispy nuggets, you can double-dip by repeating the egg wash and breadcrumb coating steps.
• Air Fryer Option: These nuggets can also be cooked in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the uncooked, breaded nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
• Healthier Version: For a healthier version, use whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs, and bake instead of frying.

Enjoy these homemade chicken nuggets as a main dish, appetizer, or snack. They’re sure to be a favorite with both kids and adults!