These crispy baked chicken nuggets are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Perfectly coated with kettle brand chips, they offer a satisfying crunch in every bite. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a fun appetizer at gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
One ingredient you might not always have on hand is kettle brand chips. These thicker, crunchier chips are essential for achieving the perfect crispy coating on your chicken nuggets. If you don't have them in your pantry, be sure to pick some up at your local supermarket.
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
kettle brand chips: These chips provide the necessary crunch and flavor for the coating of the chicken nuggets.
chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these will be cut into nugget-sized pieces.
eggs: Used to help the chip crumbs adhere to the chicken pieces.
One reader, Hakeem Felder says:
These crispy baked chicken nuggets are a game-changer! The kettle chips add an amazing crunch, and the chicken stays juicy. Easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner. My family loved them!
Key Techniques for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
How to use a food processor: Explanation on how to pulse chips in a food processor until finely crumbled. How to crush chips with a rolling pin: Explanation on how to crush chips using a rolling pin while they are still in their bag. How to whisk eggs: Explanation on how to whisk eggs in a bowl until they are well combined. How to coat chicken nuggets: Explanation on how to dip chicken nuggets in the egg mixture and then coat them with crumbled chips using the right/left-hand method. How to bake chicken nuggets: Explanation on how to bake chicken nuggets in the oven, including flipping them halfway through and ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
How To Make Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Imagine crispy baked chicken nuggets with that crunchy exterior and meat that’s juicy and irresistible with every bite. It’s possible with this recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8½ozKettle Brand chipsany flavor
- 1½lbschicken breastsboneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2eggs
Instructions
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Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
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Add the chips to a food processor and pulse until they are finely crumbled. (Or alternately, you can use a rolling pin to crush the chips while they are still in their bag.) Transfer the crumbled chips to a small bowl.
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Whisk the eggs in a separate small bowl.
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Then it’s time to assemble the nuggets! Dip one nugget in the egg mixture with your right hand until it is completely coated, then transfer it to the bowl with the chips. Then use your left hand to carefully coat the chicken with the chips on all sides, pressing them lightly on the chicken to help them stick. Use your left hand to transfer the chicken nugget to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken. (This right/left-hand method helps prevent the chips from sticking to your hands while assembling.)
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Bake for 12 minutes (the top coating of the nuggets should be nice and crispy). Then remove from the oven, flip the nuggets, and bake for 8 more minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F) and no longer pink inside.
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Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Calories: 215.54kcal
- Fat: 11.85g
- Saturated Fat: 3.46g
- Trans Fat: 0.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.86g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.50g
- Carbohydrates: 0.10g
- Sugar: 0.05g
- Protein: 25.44g
- Cholesterol: 125.89mg
- Sodium: 91.79mg
- Calcium: 20.50mg
- Potassium: 269.26mg
- Iron: 1.09mg
- Vitamin A: 50.15µg
Expert Tip for Achieving the Perfect Crispiness in Baked Chicken Nuggets
To ensure your chicken nuggets come out extra crispy, make sure to press the crumbled chips firmly onto the chicken pieces. This helps the coating adhere better and creates a more even, crunchy texture. Additionally, using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet can help air circulate around the nuggets, promoting even crispiness on all sides.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Cut the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces and crush the chips ahead of time to streamline the assembly process.
Use assembly line method: Set up your egg mixture and crumbled chips in an assembly line to quickly coat the chicken nuggets.
Preheat the oven: Ensure the oven is preheated to 400 degrees F before you start assembling the nuggets to save waiting time.
Batch processing: Coat multiple chicken pieces at once instead of one by one to speed up the process.
Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
kettle brand chips - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunch and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of kettle chips.
kettle brand chips - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a crispy texture and can be a gluten-free alternative if needed.
chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the nuggets.
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is a leaner option and can be used similarly to chicken breast.
eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the coating adhere to the chicken and adds a slight tangy flavor.
eggs - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used as a binding agent and adds moisture to the chicken.
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the chicken nuggets into bite-sized pieces to create a refined and elegant presentation. Arrange them in a neat row or a circular pattern on a pristine white plate to highlight their golden, crispy coating.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a pop of color and a touch of sophistication. You can also add a small edible flower for an extra touch of elegance.
Create a dipping sauce trio: Offer a selection of three gourmet dipping sauces, each presented in a small, elegant ramekin. Consider a tangy honey mustard, a rich truffle aioli, and a spicy sriracha mayo. Place the ramekins in a line or a triangle around the chicken nuggets.
Add texture contrast: Include a small side of microgreens or a delicate slaw made with julienned vegetables and a light vinaigrette. This will provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken nuggets and enhance the overall dining experience.
Use high-quality plating: Select a sleek, modern plate with a unique shape or design to elevate the visual appeal of the dish. Ensure the plate is spotless and free of any smudges or fingerprints to maintain a professional presentation.
Drizzle a finishing touch: Lightly drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a balsamic reduction around the chicken nuggets to add a touch of shine and an extra layer of flavor. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way.
Incorporate height: Stack a few chicken nuggets on top of each other to create height and dimension on the plate. This adds visual interest and makes the dish look more dynamic and appealing.
Use a clean, minimalist approach: Avoid overcrowding the plate. Leave ample white space around the chicken nuggets and garnishes to create a clean, minimalist look that allows each element to stand out.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Oven: Used to bake the chicken nuggets at a consistent temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the chicken nuggets on while baking.
Parchment paper: Prevents the chicken nuggets from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.
Food processor: Used to finely crumble the kettle brand chips for the nugget coating.
Rolling pin: An alternative tool to crush the chips if a food processor is not available.
Small bowl: Used to hold the crumbled chips for coating the chicken nuggets.
Another small bowl: Used to whisk and hold the eggs for dipping the chicken nuggets.
Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until they are well mixed.
Knife: Used to cut the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to cut the chicken breasts.
Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Allow the chicken nuggets to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the nuggets, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the nuggets to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This method prevents the nuggets from sticking together, allowing you to easily grab the desired amount later.
- Frozen chicken nuggets can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat refrigerated nuggets, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
- For frozen nuggets, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the nuggets on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. There's no need to thaw the nuggets before reheating.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the nuggets in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes (if refrigerated) or 8-10 minutes (if frozen), or until heated through and crispy.
How To Reheat Leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
The best way to reheat leftover crispy baked chicken nuggets is to use an air fryer or convection oven. Preheat the air fryer or oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the nuggets in a single layer on the basket or baking sheet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. This method helps maintain the original crispiness of the chicken nuggets.
If you don't have an air fryer or convection oven, you can still achieve good results using a regular oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the nuggets, helping them crisp up. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can use a microwave, although this may result in a softer texture. Place the chicken nuggets on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking the nuggets after each interval to ensure they don't overcook and become rubbery. Typically, 1-2 minutes total microwaving time is sufficient, depending on the number of nuggets and your microwave's power.
If you want to add extra flavor and crispiness to your reheated chicken nuggets, consider brushing them lightly with some olive oil or melted butter before reheating in the oven or air fryer. This will help enhance the golden-brown color and crispy texture of the nuggets' exterior.
Avoid reheating the chicken nuggets more than once, as this can lead to a dry, tough texture and potential food safety issues. Only reheat the amount you plan to consume immediately, and store any remaining nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Interesting Trivia About Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets
A fun fact about this crispy baked chicken nuggets recipe is that using kettle brand chips as the coating not only adds a unique crunch but also infuses the nuggets with a rich, savory flavor, making them a delightful twist on traditional chicken nuggets.
Is Making Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets at Home Cost-Effective?
This crispy baked chicken nuggets recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients include chicken breasts and kettle brand chips, which are relatively affordable. Eggs are also inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly option. The preparation is simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Healthy or Unhealthy?
The crispy baked chicken nuggets recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried nuggets, as baking reduces the amount of oil needed. However, there are still some aspects that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The recipe uses kettle brand chips as a coating, which are high in sodium and may contain unhealthy vegetable oils. While they provide a crispy texture, they don't offer much nutritional value.
- The recipe doesn't include any vegetables or fiber-rich ingredients, which are essential for a balanced meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the kettle brand chips with a mixture of whole-wheat breadcrumbs, finely chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans), and grated Parmesan cheese. This will provide a crispy coating while adding fiber, healthy fats, and protein.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without relying on salt. Try using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, or dried basil.
- Serve the nuggets with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal.
- Use a low-fat, high-protein dipping sauce like Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and spices, instead of sugary or high-fat sauces.
- Cut the chicken breasts into smaller, bite-sized pieces to reduce cooking time and ensure even cooking throughout.
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe
This recipe ingeniously uses kettle chips to create a crispy coating for the chicken nuggets, adding a unique flavor and texture. The method of using separate hands for dipping and coating is a clever way to keep the process tidy. Baking at 400 degrees ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy. The simplicity of the ingredients and steps makes it accessible for home cooks, yet the result is impressively delicious. Serving with a variety of dipping sauces can elevate the dish further, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any meal.
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Why trust this Crispy Baked Chicken Nuggets Recipe:
This recipe for crispy baked chicken nuggets is a must-try because it uses kettle brand chips to create an irresistible crunch without the need for deep frying. The chicken breasts are coated in a flavorful crust, ensuring each bite is both juicy and crispy. Plus, baking at 400 degrees F makes it a healthier option. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for a delicious, family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
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