Healthy Homemade Baked Panko Chicken Nuggets Recipe

If your family loves fast food chicken nuggets but you want a healthier homemade version, this Baked Panko Chicken Nuggets Recipe is going to be a huge hit. Made with ground chicken, a crunchy panko breadcrumb coating, and kid-approved seasonings, they come together quickly and bake to golden perfection—no frying needed!

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a customizable protein option, this Baked Panko Chicken Nuggets Recipe is the answer. The seasoning possibilities are endless, and the texture is tender and crisp—just like your favorite nuggets. Make a double batch and watch them disappear!

I’m not sure about you, but my kids would eat chicken nuggets daily if I’d let them. Honestly, I get it. They’re delicious! While I’m not opposed to a fast food treat or frozen nuggets occasionally, I wanted to have my own healthier homemade version on deck too.

I saw a grain free chicken nugget recipe from Against All Grain years ago where she used ground chicken to form chicken nuggets with that soft/chewy fast food nugget texture. I’m not personally grain free but I have always loved Danielle’s work and that tip has always stuck with me. Now that I have kids of my own, I appreciate that fast food nugget texture more than ever!

I knew when I created my own version of at home nuggets, ground chicken would be the base. You CAN use chunks of boneless skinless chicken breast but, of course, the texture will be different.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-friendly texture and taste – Ground chicken gives these nuggets a soft, juicy bite that’s super similar to fast food versions.
• Crispy without frying – Thanks to the panko breadcrumbs and a light spray of avocado oil, you get the perfect crunch straight from the oven.
• Customizable flavor – The seasonings can be easily swapped to match your family’s preferences.
• Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and freeze extras for easy weeknight dinners or lunchboxes.
• Healthier alternative – No deep frying, no mystery meat—just wholesome, simple ingredients.

Ingredients in This Baked Panko Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Let’s break down how each ingredient works in this recipe:

• Ground chicken – The base of the nuggets. It creates a soft, uniform texture kids love, mimicking fast food nuggets.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Provide the crispy, golden exterior when baked. They’re lighter and crunchier than traditional breadcrumbs.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Add subtle savory depth and classic nugget flavor.
• Paprika – Adds a touch of color and a mild smoky flavor.
• Salt & pepper – Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Egg – Helps bind the ground chicken mixture together.
• Avocado oil – Sprayed or brushed on top to promote browning and crispiness in the oven. It’s a healthy oil with a high smoke point, perfect for baking.

Tips & Substitutions

• Use a cookie scoop – For evenly sized nuggets and less mess. Simply flatten the rounded scoop for a nugget shape.
• Season to your taste – Swap out paprika for smoked paprika, add a pinch of cayenne for heat, or use Italian seasoning for a fun twist. I also like adding chives and dill for a ranch inspired flavor.
• No ground chicken? – Try ground turkey or even mashed tofu for a plant-based version.
• Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• Air fryer option – These can also be cooked in the air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

How to Store This Baked Panko Chicken Nuggets Recipe

In the refrigerator: Store cooked nuggets in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

In the freezer: Let nuggets cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months.

To reheat:

• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Air fryer: 375°F for 6–8 minutes for extra crispiness.
• Microwave: 1–2 minutes (note: this won’t be as crispy but works just fine in a pinch).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape the nuggets and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them raw and bake from frozen (just add 5–7 minutes to the bake time).

Can I use ground chicken breast or thighs?
Both work! I prefer chicken breast but you can add a mixture of both or use only ground thighs.

Do I need to flip them while baking?
It’s not essential, but flipping halfway through ensures an evenly golden crust on both sides.

Are these spicy?
Nope! They’re mild as written, but feel free to add cayenne, chili powder, or hot sauce to the mix if you like heat. I love tossing mine in buffalo sauce before eating.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, half the panko (½ cup), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
3. Form the nuggets: Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and shape into nugget-sized pieces. Flatten slightly for even baking.
4. Coat in panko: Roll each nugget in the remaining panko breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings, pressing lightly to coat all sides.
5. Arrange on baking sheet: Place coated nuggets on the prepared sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with avocado oil.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).
7. Serve and enjoy! Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or ketchup.

Serve the nuggets with this kid friendly “better than the box” shells macaroni and cheese for the ultimate kid favorite dinner. Add in some simple steamed broccoli or these delicious crispy roasted brussels sprouts for some green veggies!

These Baked Panko Chicken Nuggets are a must-try for busy families looking for healthier homemade meals that still feel like a treat. With the soft inside, crispy outside, and endless flavor possibilities, they’re sure to be a staple in your meal rotation.

Let me know in the comments if you try them and what seasonings your family loves best!

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