Homemade Chicken Nuggets (Additive-Free)

Total Time: 30 minutes (Prep: 15 min | Cook: 15 min)


Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450 g)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (use homemade or additive-free store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or set air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks.
  3. In a bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place flour in a third bowl.
  4. Coat each chicken piece:
    • Dip in flour (shake off excess)
    • Dip in egg
    • Coat in breadcrumb mixture
  5. Cooking options:
    • Oven: Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
    • Air fryer: Air fry in a single layer for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Dips: Honey mustard, homemade ketchup, or yogurt-based ranch
  • Sides: Sweet potato fries, steamed broccoli, carrot sticks, or brown rice
  • Kid-friendly tip: Use small cookie cutters to shape nuggets before cooking