If you are searching for a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome snack or meal, this Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe will absolutely become your new favorite. Combining tender shredded chicken with vibrant, finely chopped broccoli, these nuggets bring a perfect balance of protein and veggies, all wrapped up in a crispy, cheesy coating. They make eating healthy irresistibly tasty, and they’re straightforward to prepare, making them ideal whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want a satisfying bite that feels homemade and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making your nuggets burst with flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role, from the juicy chicken providing heartiness to the broccoli adding that fresh green punch and a subtle crunch. These ingredients all come together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast: Use lean protein for a clean taste and great texture that holds together well.
- 1 cup steamed and finely chopped broccoli: Adds color, nutrition, and a slight crisp bite when finely cut.
- 1 cup bread crumbs: Helps bind the mixture and creates that satisfying outer texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty flavor that elevates every nugget.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a natural binder, bringing all ingredients together securely.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a subtle aromatic punch to awaken the palate.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild, savory depth without overwhelming the nuggets.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the ingredients perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat, rounding out the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to crisp the nuggets beautifully while baking.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking on the tray.
How to Make Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures your nuggets get golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray—this simple preparation step keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the shredded chicken, finely chopped broccoli, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This combination forms the heart of your nuggets, blending the moistness of the chicken with the fresh crunch of broccoli and the savory cheese binding everything deliciously.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Beat your eggs in a separate bowl and then pour them into the chicken and broccoli mix. Stir everything thoroughly so that the eggs distribute evenly; they act as a natural glue holding the ingredients together while baking, helping each nugget maintain its shape and perfect texture.
Step 4: Shape the Nuggets
Using your hands, scoop out the mixture and form it into small nugget-sized shapes. Place each nugget patiently onto your prepared baking sheet, keeping them spaced just enough to allow for even cooking and air circulation for that perfect crispness.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil
Drizzle the nuggets with olive oil. This step is crucial—it helps the outside of your nuggets brown beautifully in the oven, creating that irresistible golden crust that contrasts with the tender inside.
Step 6: Bake Until Crispy
Bake the nuggets for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on both sides. The nuggets will turn a lovely golden brown color and firm up, signaling they are ready to be pulled from the oven.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once baked, allow the nuggets to cool for a few minutes on the tray. This brief waiting period helps them set perfectly, making them easier to handle and even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can take your Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe to the next level. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese for visual appeal and a flavor boost. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice also cuts through the richness, brightening every bite wonderfully.
Side Dishes
These nuggets shine alongside simple, fresh side dishes. Think crisp garden salads, tangy coleslaw, or even a light quinoa pilaf to add wholesome grains. For a comforting touch, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes provide a satisfying and kid-friendly pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Getting creative with presentation can turn these nuggets into a fun meal for kids and adults alike. Serve them on skewers with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy Sriracha mayo to offer variety. Alternatively, pile them atop fresh greens or stuff them into whole wheat pita pockets for a hearty, portable lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover nuggets, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving their flavor and texture, making a quick meal option during busy days.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen nuggets can last up to 2 months and are perfect for meal prep or unexpected cravings.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed nuggets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also use a toaster oven for smaller batches. Avoid microwaving as it may make the nuggets soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly as long as you steam and drain it well to remove excess moisture. This prevents the nugget mixture from becoming too wet and helps maintain the right texture.
Is it possible to bake these nuggets without eggs?
While eggs help bind the ingredients, you can substitute them with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water to create a vegan-friendly binder, though the texture might be slightly different.
How can I make these nuggets gluten-free?
Simply swap the regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the recipe safe for gluten-intolerant friends without compromising taste or crunch.
Can I cook these nuggets in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air frying at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, can produce wonderfully crispy nuggets with less oil and faster cooking time.
Are these nuggets kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild flavors of chicken and broccoli combined with the crispy texture make them a hit with kids. You can even sneak extra veggies into the mix for a hidden healthy boost.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about homemade nuggets that are filled with wholesome ingredients, and this Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe hits that perfect note of comfort and nutrition every time. Give this recipe a try—it’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen for healthy snacking or family dinners.
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Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: Approximately 20 nuggets
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Nutritious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional nuggets, packed with protein and vegetables. Made with shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and Parmesan cheese, they’re baked to golden perfection for a crispy, flavorful snack or meal option.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broccoli Mixture
- 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 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Binding and Cooking
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray (for prepping the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Chicken and Vegetables: 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. Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into the chicken and broccoli mixture and mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
- Form Nuggets: Using your hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into small nugget-sized pieces. Place the formed nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the nuggets to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake Nuggets: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. Bake until the nuggets are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the nuggets from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a nutritious snack or meal accompaniment.
Notes
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
- Ensure broccoli is finely chopped and steamed to blend well into the mixture.
- Flipping the nuggets halfway ensures even crispiness on all sides.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste preference.
- These nuggets reheat well in the oven or air fryer for leftovers.
