Perfectly Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Nuggets: A Simple Guide

Prepared chicken nuggets in the oven are not just quick but also deliciously juicy. This step-by-step guide offers a straightforward and foolproof method for creating oven-baked chicken nuggets that are sure to satisfy any craving.

Ingredients You'll Need

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into uniform 1-inch cubes Seasoning: A mixture of spices like salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning Oil and Butter: Olive oil for coating and unsalted butter for flavor Optional Garnish: Fresh chopped parsley for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 420°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures the chicken cooks quickly while maintaining its juiciness.

Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, making sure they're uniform in size for even cooking.

Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine the seasonings of your choice:

1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/8 teaspoon paprika for heat 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences.

Coat the Chicken

Place the cubed chicken in a baking dish. Drizzle around 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and then sprinkle with the seasoning mixture, stirring to ensure even coating.

Add the Butter

Cut 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter into small cubes and distribute them over the seasoned chicken. The butter will melt during cooking, enhancing both flavor and moisture content.

Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 16-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is recommended for accurate doneness.

For added crispiness, switch to broil mode and cook for an additional 2 minutes at the end of the baking process.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

These oven-baked chicken nuggets are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides such as:

Rice or pasta Grilled vegetables A salad

This simple yet flavorful dish makes for a perfect meal or snack!

Conclusion

Following these steps will result in perfectly flavorful and tender oven-baked chicken nuggets, perfect for satisfying a chicken craving or serving as a healthy meal option.