Chicken Nugget Recipe (Healthy + Homemade)
This recipe takes your favorite childhood classic, the chicken nugget, and gives it a healthy makeover. I've swapped out processed ingredients for wholesome alternatives like lean ground chicken, almond flour and a touch of hidden vegetables. The result? Crispy, delicious nuggets that not only satisfy your taste buds, but also nourish your body.
This recipe isn't just about creating a healthy version of a beloved childhood treat. It's about demonstrating the potential of elevating nostalgic foods with added nutritional value. It's a celebration of familiar flavors, enhanced with the benefits of wholesome ingredients. Whether you're a health-conscious adult or a parent searching for nutritious options for your kids, this recipe is for you!
5-Star Healthy Baked Chicken Veggie Nuggets
Anne Murray, MS, RD
These Baked Chicken and Veggie Nuggets are packed with protein from lean ground chicken and hidden veggies like shredded broccoli and carrots. The secret to their crispy goodness? A light coating of almond flour that bakes up perfectly without all the extra carbs. Perfect for a satisfying lunch, after-school snack, or even a fun weeknight dinner!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, dinner, healthy snack, snacks
Cuisine American, kid friendly
- 1 lb Lean Ground Chicken
- 1 Egg
- 1 c Almond Flour
- 2 tbsp Seasoning Mixture
- 1 c Shredded Carrots
- 1 c Chopped Broccoli
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, beaten egg, almond flour, chopped broccoli, and shredded carrots. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
Shape the chicken mixture into bite-sized nuggets. Aim for small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
Place the nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each nugget for air circulation.
Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the nuggets are golden brown. You can flip the nuggets halfway through baking for even browning.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce! Ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch dressing all pair well with these healthy nuggets.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture. You can also adjust the amount of cajun seasoning to your preference.
- Cajun Substitute: Don't have cajun seasoning? Substitute it with a combination of 1 teaspoon each of paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Veggie Fun: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach could be delicious additions
Health Benefits:
- Lean Protein: Ground chicken is a good source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
- Veggie Power: Broccoli and carrots are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all crucial for a balanced diet.
- Almond Flour Powerhouse: Almond flour is a gluten-free alternative to traditional bread crumbs, offering a boost of healthy fats and fiber.
Enjoy these healthy and delicious chicken and veggie nuggets! They're a perfect way to satisfy your cravings for a classic comfort food while also getting a dose of vegetables and essential nutrients.Keyword air fryer chicken nuggets, baked chicken nuggets, healthy chicken nuggets, healthy nugget, low carb chicken nuggets, veggie chicken nuggets
