Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

Enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite with these Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Lena

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:14:18.421Z

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fried nuggets. The sweet and savory flavor combination makes them a family favorite, and they are easy to prepare for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy exterior with a juicy and tender center
  • Irresistible sweet and savory honey garlic sauce
  • Perfect for dipping and sharing with family and friends

Healthier Chicken Nugget Option

In a world where fast food is often the go-to option for busy families, these Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. By baking instead of frying, you reduce the amount of oil and calories while still achieving that satisfying crunch. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a comforting dish that aligns with healthier eating habits.

Moreover, using boneless skinless chicken breasts ensures that you're incorporating lean protein into your diet. This is especially beneficial for growing children or anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. With the addition of a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, these nuggets are not just healthy but also incredibly delicious.

Ideal for Any Occasion

These chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a game day party, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a fun snack, these nuggets are sure to impress guests of all ages. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing, allowing everyone to enjoy a bit of that irresistible honey garlic flavor.

Additionally, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Try adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture or experimenting with various dipping sauces to create a unique twist. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, these nuggets will be a hit!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), storing these Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets is simple. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is to place them back in the oven to regain that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the nuggets soggy. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first serving!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious chicken nuggets:

For the Chicken Nuggets

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Make sure to follow the steps below to prepare your chicken nuggets and sauce perfectly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Coat the Chicken

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each piece of chicken first in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Nuggets

Bake the chicken nuggets in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway through baking.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is baking, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional minute until thickened.

Serve

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

These nuggets pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish!

Nutritional Benefits

These Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients. Chicken is a great source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. The honey used in the sauce offers natural sweetness and contains antioxidants, while garlic is known for its health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

By opting for homemade nuggets, you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives and artificial additives often found in store-bought versions. This recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious meal that's both nutritious and wholesome, making it a win-win for your family.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your meal, consider pairing these chicken nuggets with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce beautifully. Additionally, serving them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, like ranch or spicy mayo, can add an exciting twist to each bite.

For a complete meal, serve the nuggets with a side of brown rice or quinoa. This not only increases the nutritional value but also keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Whether you're enjoying them for lunch or dinner, these pairings will take your meal to the next level.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great and add a bit more flavor!

→ How can I make these nuggets gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to substitute the regular ones.

→ Can I freeze the chicken nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these nuggets?

They go well with ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce, or extra honey garlic sauce.

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets

Enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite with these Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Lena

Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Meals

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken Nuggets

  1. 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

  1. 1/2 cup honey
  2. 1/4 cup soy sauce
  3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  5. 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 02

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each piece of chicken first in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 03

Bake the chicken nuggets in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway through baking.

Step 04

While the chicken is baking, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional minute until thickened.

Step 05

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 20g