Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken)
These crispy, cheesy baked chicken nuggets are made with simple pantry staples and come together in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work. Featuring tender canned chicken combined with mozzarella and parmesan for a golden, melty exterior, they're sure to become a family favorite.
Perfect for busy weeknights, lunch box meals, or meal prepping for the week ahead, these nuggets offer convenience without sacrificing homemade taste and quality.
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Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (12.5 oz) can chicken breast drained thoroughly
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella for a melty, golden exterior
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan for sharp flavor and crispiness
- garlic powder and black pepper to taste, or your favorite seasonings
- Optional toppings and additions panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika
Instructions
- Drain the Chicken: Open your can of chicken breast and pour out all the liquid into a colander, pressing gently with the back of a spoon to remove excess moisture. Transfer the drained chicken to a medium mixing bowl.
- Mix the Base: Add the beaten egg, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper to the chicken. Stir everything together until well combined and the mixture holds together when squeezed.
- Form the Nuggets: Using your hands or a small spoon, form the mixture into nugget-sized pieces roughly 2 inches long. Place each nugget on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure all your nuggets are evenly spaced on the baking sheet for optimal browning on all sides.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy on the outside. A quick shake of the pan halfway through ensures even cooking.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let the nuggets cool for 2-3 minutes on the baking sheet before serving. They'll continue to firm up as they cool.