Description
These Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are a healthy twist on classic chicken nuggets, combining lean shredded chicken breast with steamed broccoli and Parmesan cheese for added flavor and nutrition. Baked to golden perfection, they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a perfect snack or meal option for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup steamed and finely chopped broccoli
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly coat the parchment paper with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed and finely chopped broccoli, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Add Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs, then pour them into the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir until all components are well incorporated and the mixture holds together.
- Form Nuggets: Using clean hands, shape the mixture into small, nugget-sized portions. Place these evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Oil Nuggets: Drizzle the shaped nuggets with the tablespoon of olive oil. This helps them crisp up in the oven as they bake.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness. Nuggets should be golden brown and firm when done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the nuggets from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns and to help them set.
Notes
- You can substitute bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Feel free to add herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
- Ensure broccoli is finely chopped and well-steamed to mix uniformly with the chicken.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the nuggets for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- These nuggets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
