Description
Delight your family with these adorable heart-shaped chicken nuggets that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfectly seasoned with garlic powder and paprika, these homemade nuggets bake to golden perfection and make a fun, heartwarming meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil, for baking
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three bowls: in the first, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; in the second, beat the eggs; and in the third, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Take a piece of chicken and first coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even, crispy coating.
- Shape the Nuggets: Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, press the coated chicken pieces into hearts. If you don’t have a cutter, you can shape small heart forms by hand. Place each shaped nugget on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil for a golden finish.
- Bake the Nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown both sides. Bake until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce to complement the flavors.
Notes
- Make sure to cut the chicken pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer extra crispy nuggets, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Feel free to substitute spices according to your taste preferences.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked chicken.
- These nuggets can also be pan-fried for a crispier texture, but baking is healthier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
