Description
These heart-shaped chicken nuggets are a fun and tasty twist on classic chicken nuggets, perfect for a special occasion or a delightful meal for kids and adults alike. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, they offer a healthier alternative to fried nuggets without compromising on crispiness and taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 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) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In three separate bowls, prepare the coating ingredients: one with the flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; the second with the beaten eggs; and the third with the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken piece and first coat it evenly in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs to moisten, and finally roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.
- Shape the Nuggets: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the coated chicken pieces into cute heart shapes. If you do not have a cutter, carefully shape the nuggets by hand into small hearts. Place the shaped nuggets onto the prepared baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray or brush with a little oil to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake the Nuggets: Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning and cooking. Nuggets are done when they turn golden brown and the chicken inside reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve your heart-shaped chicken nuggets warm with favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a delicious and charming meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- You can prepare the nuggets ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking for convenience.
- Make sure chicken pieces are cut uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- To ensure safety, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken nuggets (165°F / 74°C).
- Feel free to add your favorite spices to the flour mixture for extra flavor.
