Description
Deliciously spicy and crispy baked buffalo chicken nuggets coated in a flavorful breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture, perfect as a snack or appetizer with a zesty kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
Buffalo Sauce Mixture
- 3 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
Breading
- 2/3 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425˚F to ensure it’s properly heated for baking the chicken nuggets to a crispy finish.
- Prepare the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into approximately 1.5 inch pieces to create nugget-sized portions for even cooking.
- Make the buffalo sauce mixture: Whisk together the melted butter and hot sauce in a bowl, creating the flavorful coating for the chicken.
- Prepare the breading: In a separate dish, mix the Italian bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder to form the seasoned breading mix.
- Coat the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated, then dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well covered.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Lightly grease or spray a baking sheet, then lay the chicken pieces out with at least 1/2 inch of space between each to allow crisping. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Bake the nuggets: Place the baking sheet on the lower rack and bake for 4-5 minutes. Then move it to the upper rack and bake for an additional 4-5 minutes.
- Optional broiling for extra crispiness: For a crispier texture, broil the nuggets for 2-4 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Notes
- You can substitute hot sauce with your favorite buffalo wing sauce or adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Using two baking sheets prevents overcrowding and helps the nuggets cook evenly and crisply.
- Broiling is optional but greatly enhances the crispiness of the nuggets.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic pairing.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Buffalo chicken nuggets, baked chicken nuggets, spicy chicken bites, easy appetizer, party snacks
