Description
These Heart-Shaped Chicken Nuggets are a fun and delicious twist on classic chicken nuggets. Made with tender chicken breast pieces coated in a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb crust, shaped into adorable hearts, and baked to golden perfection, they make a perfect meal for kids and adults alike. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these nuggets are easy to prepare and served best with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Breading
- 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 ensure easy cleanup.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In three separate bowls, prepare your coating mixtures: one with flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; the second with beaten eggs; and the third with breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken piece, first coat it evenly in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it well in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Shape the Nuggets: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the coated chicken pieces into heart shapes. If you don’t have a cutter, you can carefully form small heart shapes by hand. Arrange the shaped nuggets on the prepared baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray or oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
- Bake the Nuggets: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the nuggets for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. Bake until the nuggets are golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once baked, serve your heart-shaped chicken nuggets warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a delightful and tasty treat.
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can prepare the nuggets ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
- These nuggets can be frozen raw or cooked; bake or reheat accordingly.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.
