These Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. With simple ingredients, you can have these homemade nuggets ready in just 30 minutes!

You’ll also love this Honey Balsamic Chicken, Baked Honey Garlic Chicken, and Garlic Chicken Piccata!

A hand dips a crispy chicken nugget into a bowl of barbecue sauce. In the background, more nuggets are visible on a white tray.

There’s just something about homemade chicken nuggets that keeps me coming back for more.

It could be the perfectly crisp costing on the outside or the tender and juicy meat on the inside.

Or it could be the fact that these crispy baked chicken nuggets are made with just a handful of ingredients and are easy to customize depending on my tastes.

But whatever the reason, I’m here to tell you this recipe is perfect for kids, adults, and everyone in between. Whether you serve it has a hearty appetizer or quick dinner with your favorite dipping sauces, this oven baked chicken nugget recipe will be a favorite in your household.

In fact, this air fryer version and baked chicken tenders were the inspiration for this dish. But, instead of using eggs to act as a binder, I used melted butter. This helps the chicken remain juicy and moist when baked…mmm mmm good!

Golden, crispy chicken nuggets with a seasoned breadcrumb coating are arranged next to two dipping sauces; one is a creamy white ranch and the other is a rich, dark red bbq sauce. The scene is set on a white surface.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Crispy and Juicy: The nuggets and golden and crunchy on the outside, yet tender and flavorful on the inside…just how nuggets should be.
  • Simple Ingredients: Chicken, butter, bread crumbed, and a few seasonings are all you need to whip up these easy baked chicken nuggets.
  • Easy to Make: You can have this nugget recipe prepped, baked, and ready to be devoured with your favorite dips in just 30 minutes.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and bread crumbs to fit your tastes, including the cooking method. If you prefer to use the air fryer, try this chicken strip method; or use tenders like in this baked tender recipe.
  • Healthier Option: Instead of frying in oil, baking in the oven is the best way to get a healthier nugget recipe.
  • Kid-Approved: Kids (and picky adults!) will love the taste and texture of this easy recipe.
A top-down view of cubed raw chicken in a bowl, surrounded by small bowls containing breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a mix of spices including salt, pepper, and paprika, all on a light-colored surface.

Ingredients Needed:

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I used a pound, or roughly four medium-sized breasts.
  • Unsalted Butter: You will melt this to act as a binder to hold the seasonings for the chicken.
  • Bread Crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs work best, though you could use the regular kind. 
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper help flavor the bread crumbs.
  • Cooking Spray: Use a few spritzes on top of the nuggets just before baking so that it remains golden and crisp when cooking.

How to Make Chicken Nuggets in Oven:

  • Prepare: Line large baking pans with parchment paper and set aside. In a shallow bowl or dish, add melted butter. In another shallow bowl or dish, add bread crumbs and seasonings and stir well to combine.
A white round dish contains melted butter, with small solidified bits on the surface and a piece of raw chicken in the center. The background is light and textured.
A white plate filled with finely ground breadcrumbs is set against a light beige textured background. The breadcrumbs are light brown and evenly spread on the plate with a piece of chicken in the middle.
A baking tray lined with parchment paper holds twelve uncooked, breaded chicken nuggets. They are evenly spaced and placed on a light-colored countertop.
  • Dip: Take the pieces of chicken and dunk them into the melted butter, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Place pieces onto prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  • Bake: Lightly spritz the chicken pieces with cooking spray (this will help achieve that golden brown color) and bake for 16-20 minutes, flipping halfway though, until cooked through and crisp on the outside.

How to Store:

Leftover chicken will last in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator for up to four days.

  • To Reheat: Microwave individual servings until heated through, about 45 seconds to 1 minute.
  • To Freeze: Place chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, let thaw completely in the refrigerator.

What Kind of Chicken is Best to Use for Nuggets?

I find that boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best because they’re thicker and meatier than tenders.

What to Do With Leftover Chicken Nuggets:

  • Make a Chicken Nuggets Wrap: Chop the nuggets and wrap them in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, shredded cheese, and mayo for an easy lunch or dinner option.
  • Nugget Salad Topping: Slice nuggets and toss them onto a salad for some protein.
  • Nugget Sliders: Place the nuggets on mini slider buns with lettuce and pickles, with a dollop of bbq sauce or mayo for a quick snack.
  • Nugget Pasta Bake: Chop the nuggets and mix them into a creamy pasta, such as this version or mac and cheese for a hearty meal.
  • Chicken Nugget Stir Fry: Dice the nuggets and add them to a quick veggie stir-fry for an easy dinner.
  • Loaded Nugget Fries: Chop the nuggets and sprinkle over fries with some melted cheese, chopped bacon, and a drizzle of cheese or bb ranch sauce.
  • Nugget Casserole: Use the nuggets in this chicken and mashed potato casserole for a quick and cozy meal.
  • Nugget Bowls: Create a bowl with some mashed potatoes, veggies, and a drizzle of gravy.
Close-up of crispy, golden-brown chicken nuggets on a white plate, alongside small bowls of ranch and barbecue dipping sauces. The texture of the nuggets is crunchy, with visible herbs in the breading.

Variations: for Baked Chicken Nuggets in Oven:

  • Spicy Nuggets: Try a mixture of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the season for a kick of heat.
  • Cheesy Nuggets: Mix grated Parmesan cheese or cheddar cheese into the bread crumbs for a cheesy twist.
  • Gluten-Free Nuggets: Swap regular flour and bread crumbs for gluten free flour and gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed crackers. 
  • Keto Nuggets: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of the bread crumb mixture for a low-carb option.
  • Asian-Inspired Nuggets: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, and add sesame seeds to the bread for an Asian flair. 
  • Vegetarian Nuggets: Use tofu or cauliflower in place of the chicken for a vegetarian option.

Dipping Sauces: 

Here are some of my favorite sauces to pair with chicken:

  • Classic Ketchup: Perfect to pair with the nuggets for a classic taste.
  • Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy mix of honey and mustard complements the crispy chicken. 
  • Barbecue Sauce: Smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy is aways a delicious option.
  • Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, it pairs so well with the chicken, especially this homemade version or Hidden Valley Ranch.
  • Buffalo Sauce: For a spicy twist, this sauce is perfect.
  • Garlic Aioli: This sauce adds a gourmet touch to your nuggets.
  • Cheese Sauce: Warm, gooey, and perfect for dunking!
  • Yogurt Dill Sauce: Create your own or buy a jar for a bit of an extra kick.
  • Pesto Sauce: It may seem strange to combine chicken nuggets and pesto, but the herbs make a delicious condiment. 

Tips and Tricks:

  • Use Fresh Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs will give you the best results, with tender and juicy meat.
  • Cut Evenly: Try to ensure that you cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces so that everything cooks evenly.
  • Marinate for Even More Flavor: If you have the time, you can marinate the chicken in buttermilk or seasoned milk to make these extra tender and flavorful.
  • Choose the Right Breading: Panko bread crumbs give a light and crispy texture, while regular bread crumbs create a more classic crust.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between the nuggets on the baking pan to ensure for even cooking and crispiness.
A white plate with golden-brown breaded chicken nuggets and a serving of French fries. A bowl of dipping sauce is blurred in the background.

Looking for More Chicken Dinner Ideas? I’ve Got You Covered!

A hand dips a crispy chicken nugget into a bowl of barbecue sauce. In the background, more nuggets are visible on a white tray.

Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 17 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
These Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. With simple ingredients, you can have these homemade nuggets ready in just 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
 

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, (I used three large chicken breasts cut into 1-1.5 inch pieces)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, (melted)
  • 1¼ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, (regular paprika also works)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400℉. Line two large baking pans with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • Add melted butter to a small bowl or shallow dish. In another bowl or shallow dish, add breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper and stir well to combine.
  • Dip chicken pieces into melted butter, coating on all sides. Then dunk chicken pieces into breadcrumb mixture, coating on all sides. Places pieces onto prepared baking pans.
  • Spray the tops of chicken pieces lightly with cooking spray (this will help achieve that golden color). Bake for 8 minutes, flip each nugget, and continue baking 8-10 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Remove from oven and let sit for several minutes before serving. This will help the chicken retain that juicy texture. Serve with ranch, barbecue sauce, or your favorite sauce of choice.

Notes

  • Chicken nuggets will last in an airtight container or ziploc bag in the refrigerator for up to four days.
  • To Reheat: Microwave individual servings until heated through, about 45 seconds to 1 minute.
    To Freeze: Place chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, let thaw completely in the refrigerator.
  • See my tips and tricks for making these Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets above the recipe box.
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Course
Author: Gayle
Did you make this recipe?Let me know! Mention @pumpkin_n_spice on Instagram or tag #pumpkin_n_spice.