Name: Baked Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – cut into 1 inch strips; 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon dried basil; ½ cup butter, melted

Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken NuggetsRecipe

You’ll love this recipe because it delivers a crispy, savory coating without the need to deep‑fry; the herb and Parmesan breading brings in extra flavor; and it comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a snack for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian‑seasoned bread crumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup butter, melted

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
Cut the chicken breasts into approximately 1½‑inch pieces.
In a medium bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried thyme, and salt. In another bowl or dish, place the melted butter.
Dip each chicken piece first into the melted butter, then roll or coat it in the breadcrumb mixture so it’s well coated.
Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the nuggets are browned and the chicken is cooked through.
Serve immediately, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep time: approximately 20 minutes.
Cook time: approximately 20 minutes.
Total time: around 40 minutes.

Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian‑seasoned crumbs for an extra crispy texture.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a slight spicy kick.
Substitute the dried herbs with fresh chopped herbs (such as fresh basil and thyme) for a brighter flavor—just adjust quantities accordingly.
Instead of butter, you can use olive oil to dip the chicken for a slightly lighter version.
Serve with different dipping sauces: honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and retain some crispness, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 8–10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it will soften the coating.

FAQs

What temperature should the oven be for baking these nuggets?

Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C) before placing the coated chicken pieces in to bake.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes — you may use boneless skinless chicken thighs, just cut them into similar‑sized pieces. Baking time should remain approximately the same; ensure they are cooked through.

Are these nuggets gluten‑free?

As written, no — because the recipe uses Italian‑seasoned bread crumbs. To make them gluten‑free, use gluten‑free breadcrumbs or ground‑nuts/breadcrumb substitute that is certified gluten‑free.

Can I make these ahead of time and bake later?

You can coat the chicken pieces ahead of time, keep them refrigerated until ready, then bake when you’re ready to serve. Avoid coating far in advance if the coating will absorb excess moisture.

What internal temperature should the chicken reach?

The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165 °F (74 °C). Use a meat thermometer in the thickest piece to ensure doneness.

Can I freeze these baked nuggets?

Yes — allow them to cool completely, then place in a freezer‑safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment if needed. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375 °F (190 °C) for about 15–20 minutes or until hot throughout.

How can I make the coating even crispier?

Try using panko breadcrumbs, increase slightly the Parmesan cheese, or spray a little cooking oil over the coated pieces before baking to help browning and crispness.

Can I add vegetables or serve them differently?

Certainly — pair the nuggets with carrot and celery sticks, a side salad, roasted vegetables or sweet‑potato fries for a balanced meal. You could also serve them in wraps or sandwiches.

What dipping sauces go well with these chicken nuggets?

Good options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, ketchup, or a spicy mayo. Choose based on preference and audience.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes — it’s simple, flavorful, and uses familiar ingredients, making it a family‑friendly option that many children will enjoy.

Conclusion

These baked chicken nuggets are a convenient, tasty dish that brings together the ease of a home‑cooked meal with the comfort and fun of a nugget‑style bite. With a flavorful herb‑Parmesan coating and straightforward prep, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, snack time, or casual entertaining. Once you try them, they’re likely to become a repeat favorite.