Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!) are the perfect solution for a quick, delicious meal. These oven-baked nuggets are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that even picky eaters will love. Plus, using canned chicken means less prep time and minimal fuss in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have these chicken nuggets ready to bake.
• Healthy Option: Low in carbs and made with wholesome ingredients, they fit perfectly into various dietary plans.
• Versatile Serving: Great as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they pair well with different dipping sauces.
• Kid-Friendly: These tasty bites are sure to please kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Budget-Friendly: Using canned chicken is an economical way to create a delicious dish without breaking the bank.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!), it’s important to have the right tools on hand for efficiency and ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Fine mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking and allows the nuggets to get crispy all around.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
• Fine mesh strainer: Helps drain excess moisture from the canned chicken for better texture.

Ingredients

To prepare these Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 (12.5oz) can chicken breast (drained)
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella
• 3 tbsp grated parmesan
• optional seasoning (I use garlic powder & black pepper)

How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425° F. This ensures your chicken nuggets cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Open and drain the canned chicken.
2. Use a fine mesh strainer to eliminate excess moisture by pressing down on the chicken with your fingers.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine the drained chicken with the egg, mozzarella, parmesan, and any desired seasoning.
2. Avoid adding salt; stick to garlic powder and black pepper for flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Nuggets

Using your hands:
1. Mold the mixture into small bite-size nuggets.
2. Each nugget should be about a heaping tablespoon in size.

Step 5: Bake the Nuggets

Place the shaped nuggets on your prepared baking sheet:
1. Bake for 18-22 minutes.
2. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, serve your Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!) hot with your favorite dipping sauce like Ray’s no sugar added BBQ sauce or ranch dressing!

How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

These Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit any occasion, whether it’s a snack for the kids or an appetizer at a party.

With Dipping Sauces

• BBQ Sauce: The sweetness of BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken nuggets.
• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that adds a creamy texture and herby flavor.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, this sauce brings a delightful twist to your meal.

In a Wrap

• Tortilla Wrap: Place nuggets in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a quick and easy wrap.
• Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap your nuggets along with some fresh veggies.

On a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Top your Caesar salad with warm chicken nuggets for added protein.
• Mixed Greens: Add nuggets to a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing for a satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

To make sure your Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets turn out just right, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture, making your nuggets irresistible.

• Use Quality Canned Chicken: Choose a brand that uses all-natural ingredients for the best taste.
• Drain Thoroughly: Ensure you remove as much moisture as possible from the canned chicken to achieve crispy nuggets.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
• Uniform Size Is Key: Make sure all nugget pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: It prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: This ensures all sides get crispy and evenly cooked.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement these tasty bites perfectly.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory nuggets.
2. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side adds color and crunch while balancing the richness of the chicken nuggets.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides freshness and tanginess that enhances each bite of nugget.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit, making it a kid-friendly option alongside your nuggets.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is sweet and juicy, perfect for summer meals.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are hearty and pair well with dipping sauces alongside your chicken nuggets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the draining step: Not fully draining the canned chicken can lead to soggy nuggets. Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible for the best texture.
• Overseasoning: Adding too much seasoning can overpower the taste of the chicken. Stick to a little garlic powder and black pepper for a balanced flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 425° F before baking.
• Ignoring baking time: Leaving the nuggets in too long or not long enough can affect their crispiness. Keep an eye on them and aim for 18-22 minutes for perfect results.
• Using large pieces: Molding nuggets that are too big can lead to undercooked centers. Aim for bite-size pieces for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

• Place cooled nuggets in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!)

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, but may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed, adding a little oil for crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets made with canned chicken.

Are Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets healthy?

These nuggets are lower in carbs than traditional options and made with simple ingredients, making them a healthier choice.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?

Yes, you can use shredded cooked chicken if you prefer fresh over canned; just ensure it is finely shredded.

How do I customize my Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

What dipping sauces pair well with these nuggets?

These nuggets taste great with BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even honey mustard!

Final Thoughts

Easy Baked Chicken Nuggets (Made with Canned Chicken!) are not only quick and simple but also incredibly delicious. You can customize them with different seasonings or enjoy them as they are. These nuggets make a fantastic snack or meal option that everyone will love!