Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets Recipe | Perfect Weeknight Dinner
Parmesan-crusted chicken nuggets are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and healthy! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping, or simply craving something crunchy and wholesome, this recipe is your go-to solution.
Packed with rich flavors and a satisfying texture, these nuggets not only taste amazing but are also guilt-free. Plus, they’re made using ingredients found in a Fat Burning Cookbook, making it easy for you to stay on track with a healthier lifestyle. Let’s get into it!
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Benefits You’ll Love:
- Kid-Friendly: A healthy spin on a classic family favorite.
- Quick and Easy: Prep in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
- Healthy Yet Indulgent: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of nutrients.
Now, let’s break it down!
Ingredients and Nutritional Value
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these golden nuggets of joy:
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for an alternative)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for baking or air frying)
Don’t recognize some of these ingredients? They might already be listed in your healthy recipe cookbook, which is full of creative and nutritious cooking tips!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fats: 10g (from high-quality healthy fats)
- Fiber: 2g
These nuggets are high in protein and made with whole-grain breadcrumbs for added fiber, making them an ideal addition to a balanced diet.
Preparing Your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets Recipe
This part is as fun as it is simple! Follow these steps for crispy, golden nuggets no one can resist.
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Start by slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces, patting them dry to ensure the coating sticks. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Station
- Bowl 1: Beat eggs until mixed.
- Bowl 2: Combine parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pro Tip! Want nuggets with an extra crunch? Double-coat them! Dip them back into the eggs and breadcrumb mixture for a thicker crust. Kids love the crunch!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat it with the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken pieces on a lightly greased baking sheet or air fryer tray.
Step 4 (Option A): Bake
Drizzle a little olive oil over the nuggets. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4 (Option B): Air Fry
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. The nuggets are ready when they turn golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
And there you have it—crispy, cheesy perfection!
Read More: Cuban Chicken Soup recipe
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan crusted chicken nuggets recipe are versatile and pair incredibly well with a variety of sides and dips. Elevate your meal with these serving ideas:
Healthy Side Ideas:
- Veggie Sticks (Carrots, Celery, Bell Peppers): A crunchy, fresh companion to your nuggets.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked to golden perfection, they add a hint of natural sweetness.
- Simple Salad: Toss greens with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Delicious Dips:
- Greek Yogurt Ranch: A protein-packed alternative to regular ranch.
- Honey Mustard (made with real honey): A little sweetness goes a long way.
- Guacamole: Creamy, rich, and loaded with healthy fats.
Mix and match these sides to create a balanced, exciting meal—even kids will ask for seconds!
Why These Nuggets Are a Healthy Choice
What makes this recipe a guilt-free indulgence? It’s all about the ingredients. With a combination of lean protein, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and fresh, wholesome ingredients, this dish satisfies cravings without the excess calories.
- Rich in Protein: Keeps you and your kids energized all day.
- Lower in Fat: Olive oil and parmesan provide healthy fats.
- Kid-Approved, Adult-Loved: By avoiding artificial ingredients and deep frying, you’re providing your family with the optimal balance of nutrition and flavor.
For more amazing recipes like this, be sure to check out our healthy recipe cookbook, where you’ll find hundreds of ideas to level up your eating habits.
Take the First Bite Today!
Parmesan crusted chicken nuggets are about to become your household’s new favorite. Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal-prepping for the week, or just experimenting with healthier options, this recipe is both easy and rewarding.
If you loved this recipe and want to explore more healthy, tasty dishes, we highly recommend grabbing your own copy of our fat burning cookbook. Packed with innovative, delicious ideas, it’s your ultimate guide to making every meal a healthy masterpiece.
Don’t forget to share your kitchen creations! Snap a pic of your nuggets and tag us on social media—we can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Share this recipe with friends and family who love healthy, cheesy goodness as much as you.
Happy cooking!
