Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets

Why Make This Recipe

Welcome to a delicious way to sneak in some veggies and protein! These Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are perfect for kids and adults alike. Not only are they tasty, but they’re also simple to make. You can feel good knowing you’re serving up something nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Plus, these bite-sized treats bring fun back to mealtime!

How to Make Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup steamed broccoli, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for baking

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small nugget shapes; they don’t have to be perfect!
4. Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle them with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
6. Once done, let them cool slightly before serving you’ll want to enjoy them warm!

How to Serve Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets

These nuggets are super versatile! You can serve them with a side of dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard. Adding a fresh salad or some roasted veggies on the side makes for a colorful plate. They’re great for lunchboxes, weeknight dinners, or just a bit of snacking when you need something quick and easy.

How to Store Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets

If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. You can also freeze them; just make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets

For extra flavor, try adding some herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning to the mixture. If you want them to be a bit crunchier, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also swap out the parmesan cheese for another cheese you love! And don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies like carrots or spinach mixed in.

Variation

Feel free to change up the protein! Ground turkey or even leftover rotisserie chicken work great in this recipe. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with a mix of beans or lentils and make sure you adjust the seasonings to your taste.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken for Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets?

No, it’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe. Shredded or diced cooked chicken helps keep the nuggets tender and flavorful.

How long do Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets take to bake?

They normally take about 20-25 minutes to bake at 375°F. Keep an eye on them; when they turn golden brown, they’re ready to go!

Can I freeze the Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets?

Yes! You can freeze these nuggets. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer first, then transfer to an airtight bag or container once they are solid.

What dipping sauces go well with Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a simple avocado dip. Get creative and try different sauces to find your favorite!

Conclusion

I hope you’ll give these Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets a try! They not only bring a taste of comfort but also remind us of the joys of cooking together as a family. Share them at the dinner table or during a fun snack time! If you enjoyed this recipe, you can find more like this on my Pinterest and Medium pages, filled with all the comforting flavors and moments we cherish in our kitchens.