Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets

Name: Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp water

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

These Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets are a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they're perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:21:17.950Z

These chicken nuggets are not only delicious but also simple to make. With a sweet and savory glaze, they are perfect for kids and adults alike. Bake them for a healthier alternative to fried nuggets!

        Why You'll Love These Nuggets
        Sweet and savory honey garlic glaze that tantalizes your taste buds
Crispy texture without the guilt of frying
Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Healthier Alternative

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. By baking instead of frying, you significantly reduce the amount of oil and calories without sacrificing flavor. This method allows the chicken to cook evenly, resulting in a tender inside and a satisfying crunch on the outside. It's a win-win for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the extra guilt.

Moreover, the use of wholesome ingredients ensures that you’re feeding your family a nutritious option. With no artificial additives, these nuggets provide a great source of protein, making them an excellent choice for growing kids and busy adults alike. The combination of honey and soy sauce also adds a unique depth of flavor, making these nuggets a standout dish that everyone will love.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these baked chicken nuggets fit seamlessly into any occasion. Their versatility allows you to serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a tasty snack. Pair them with a side of fresh vegetables or a crisp salad to create a well-rounded meal that everyone can enjoy.

Additionally, these nuggets are a great option for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Just reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the honey garlic sauce by adding your favorite spices or ingredients. A splash of sriracha can add some heat, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions can enhance the presentation and flavor profile. Experimenting with different variations can keep the recipe exciting and cater to varying palates.

You can also switch up the coating for the chicken nuggets. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, consider using crushed cornflakes or panko for an even crunchier texture. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Nuggets

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water

Combine all ingredients in separate bowls for easy assembly.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Nuggets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the flour, and in a third bowl, beat the eggs.

Dip each piece of chicken first in flour, then in the egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Nuggets

Bake the chicken nuggets in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the nuggets are baking, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Once the nuggets are done, toss them in the honey garlic sauce and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken nuggets!

For an extra touch, garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Tips for the Perfect Nuggets

To ensure that your chicken nuggets turn out perfectly crispy, be sure to space them out on the baking sheet. Crowding the pan can trap steam, leading to sogginess instead of that desired crunch. A well-ventilated baking sheet allows the hot air to circulate, giving you golden-brown nuggets that are crisp on all sides.

Another tip is to let the chicken pieces rest after coating them with breadcrumbs. This helps the coating adhere better during baking, resulting in a more satisfying crunch. If you're short on time, you can also prepare the nuggets in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets are delicious on their own, but they shine even brighter with the right accompaniments. Consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, barbecue, or even a tangy yogurt sauce to elevate the meal. Fresh veggie sticks, like carrots and celery, provide a refreshing crunch and a healthy contrast to the rich flavor of the nuggets.

For a complete meal, pair the nuggets with a side of brown rice, quinoa, or a simple pasta salad. This combination not only enhances the meal but also adds nutritional value, making it a fulfilling option for everyone at the table.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover chicken nuggets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispy texture, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their crunchiness, making them just as enjoyable as when they were freshly baked.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked nuggets. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly reheated nuggets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before starting.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I bake these nuggets in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

→ What can I serve with these chicken nuggets?

They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or more honey garlic sauce!