Baked Chicken Nuggets: Crispy, Healthy, and Easy to Make!

Baked chicken nuggets are the ultimate comfort food made healthy! These nuggets deliver crispy, golden exteriors and juicy, flavorful centers without needing a deep fryer.

They’re perfect for busy weeknights, kid-friendly lunches, or anytime you’re craving that nostalgic nugget crunch with a healthy twist. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, making them an easy go-to dinner.

What makes these nuggets special? The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and just the right mix of spices ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Adding a touch of frozen cauliflower rice keeps them moist and tender while secretly sneaking in some extra veggies. Whether you’re baking or using your air fryer, these crispy nuggets will quickly become a household favorite.

My Story Behind This Baked Chicken Nuggets

The first time I made easy homemade chicken nuggets, I was inspired by my family’s love for fast-food classics. We all wanted something crispy and indulgent, but healthier for everyday eating. I remembered a trick from culinary school—adding a vegetable puree or rice to ground meat dishes to lock in moisture. That sparked the idea of incorporating frozen cauliflower rice into the mix—game changer.

After tweaking countless variations, this recipe became my go-to healthy chicken nugget recipe. The cauliflower rice keeps every nugget tender and juicy, while the breadcrumb coating ensures that signature crispy crunch.

They’re versatile too—you can bake them for a lighter option or go the air fryer chicken nuggets route for extra crispiness.

Baked Chicken Nuggets Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs 93% lean ground chicken (organic preferred)
• 2/3 cup frozen cauliflower rice, thawed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs, or gluten-free crumbs (optional for gluten-free option)
• Your favorite dipping sauces: ketchup, honey mustard, buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, etc. (optional)

How to Make Baked Chicken Nuggets

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F or set your air fryer to 400°F for later use.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, thawed cauliflower rice, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Using clean hands, form the mixture into 30 small, flat nuggets (about 25 grams each).
4. Prepare two bowls: one with the beaten egg and another with seasoned breadcrumbs. Dip each nugget first into the egg, then coat in breadcrumbs, setting aside on a tray.
5. Baking Option: Place nuggets on a baking sheet sprayed with oil. Generously spray the tops of the nuggets with oil and bake for 10 minutes. Flip them, spray again, and bake for an additional 6 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Air Fryer Option: Place the nuggets in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Spray the tops with oil and cook for 8-9 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side. Cook until golden and crispy.
7. Remove nuggets and let cool slightly. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce!

My Chef Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Nuggets

• Don’t skip the cauliflower rice: It’s key to keeping these nuggets moist and tender without extra fat.
• Double-coat for extra crispiness: Dip each nugget in the egg and breadcrumbs twice for that extra crunch you crave.
• Batch cooking: Make a big batch on the weekend and flash-freeze any leftovers for easy reheat-and-eat meals during the week.
• Seasoned crumbs matter: Use well-seasoned breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives for added flavor.
• Even browning: When baking, make sure to spray both sides of the nuggets with oil for that golden finish.
• Dipping sauces: Transform the flavor profile with your choice of sauces—BBQ for smoky sweetness, buffalo for a spicy kick, or honey mustard for tangy sweetness.

Baked Chicken Nuggets FAQs

Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free seasoned breadcrumbs to make this a gluten-free chicken nuggets recipe. They work just as well and still give you that crispy coating.

What dipping sauces pair best with baked chicken nuggets?

Ketchup, honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or BBQ sauce are all classic choices. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt-based ranch or tzatziki.

How do I reheat these nuggets for maximum crispiness?

Reheat in a 400°F oven for about 11-15 minutes or in a 360°F air fryer for 7-8 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soft.

Are these truly healthy chicken nuggets?

Absolutely! Using lean ground chicken and sneaking in cauliflower rice, these nuggets are lower in fat and calories but still packed with flavor and texture. At just 280 kcal per serving, it’s a guilt-free treat!

Why use cauliflower rice in this recipe?

Cauliflower rice adds moisture to the chicken mixture, ensuring the nuggets don’t dry out. Plus, it sneaks in some extra veggies without altering the flavor.

Ready to Make These Baked Chicken Nuggets?

These baked chicken nuggets check all the boxes: crispy, juicy, healthy, and so easy to make. Whether you’re whipping these up for a quick family dinner or stocking your freezer with meal-prep magic, they’re destined to become a household favorite.

What dipping sauce will you pair with yours? Leave a comment or share your twist on these nuggets—I can’t wait to hear how you’ll enjoy them!