Easy Chicken Nuggets Recipe for the Whole Family

Craving crispy, golden chicken nuggets while sticking to your Weight Watchers plan? This healthier homemade recipe satisfies your fast-food cravings with a guilt-free twist! These Chicken Nuggets are made with lean chicken breast, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and baked or air-fried to perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup egg whites (or 1 large egg, beaten)
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the egg whites (or beaten egg) in a separate shallow bowl.

3. Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.

4. Cook the Nuggets

• Oven Method:
  1. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  2. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
  3. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Air Fryer Method:
  1. Place the nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  2. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
  3. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 190
• WW Points: 3 points
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 5g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy Alternative: Baked or air-fried for a crispy texture without the extra oil.
2. High in Protein: Perfect for keeping you full and energized.
3. Customizable Coating: Swap breadcrumbs with panko for extra crunch or use gluten-free crumbs if needed.
4. Kid-Friendly: A great way to enjoy a family-favorite meal that’s healthier for everyone.

Pro Tips

• Double the Batch: These nuggets freeze well. Make extra and freeze for a quick meal later.
• Add Spice: For a spicy kick, mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Try Different Dips: Pair with low-fat ranch, mustard, or a sugar-free ketchup for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• With Veggies: Pair with carrot sticks, celery, or a side of steamed broccoli.
• Over Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with these nuggets for a protein-packed salad.
• With Fries: Serve with baked sweet potato fries for a fun, balanced meal.

These Chicken Nuggets are the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food while staying on track. Whether you bake them in the oven or crisp them up in the air fryer, these nuggets are tender, flavorful, and satisfyingly crunchy. Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or even a snack, they’ll become a go-to in your Weight Watchers recipe rotation.