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Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Veggies

Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Veggies

Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Veggies are a wholesome and delicious twist on a family favorite. These crispy, golden nuggets combine tender chicken breast with finely chopped mixed vegetables, creating a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Easy to prepare and kid-friendly, they can be baked, air fried, or shallow fried for a tasty, nutritious snack or meal suitable for all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Veggies

  • 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (finely chopped carrots, peas, and corn)

Binding & Coating

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit or substitute for dairy-free)

Seasonings

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking

  • Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking or frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Veggies and Chicken: Finely chop or grate the mixed vegetables. Dice the chicken breast into chunks. To achieve a uniform mixture, briefly pulse the chicken and veggies together in a food processor or chop finely by hand.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, mixed vegetables, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and moisture.
  3. Shape the Nuggets: Using your hands or a small spoon, form bite-sized nuggets, gently pressing the mixture to hold shape without overpacking to keep nuggets tender.
  4. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each nugget in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring an even coating that will crisp nicely when cooked.
  5. Cook Until Golden: Place coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through. Alternatively, shallow fry in a lightly oiled pan until crispy and golden brown on all sides.

Notes

  • Cut nuggets to uniform size to ensure even cooking.
  • Chop veggies finely to blend into the mixture and avoid excess moisture.
  • Chill formed nuggets in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when frying or baking for ideal crispiness.
  • Use cooking spray or brush oil lightly to avoid greasy nuggets.
  • Gluten-free option: substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
  • Dairy-free option: omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken nuggets, homemade, kids friendly, healthy snack, vegetables, gluten-free option, baked chicken nuggets