Chicken nuggets are a beloved comfort food for both kids and adults alike. When cooked just right in the oven, they can be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. But getting the oven time just right is key to achieving nugget perfection. Keep reading to find out exactly how long chicken nuggets need to bake.
The Ideal Oven Temperature and Time
The optimal oven temperature for baking chicken nuggets is 400°F. This high heat helps the exterior breading achieve crispness and browning.
As for time, 10-15 minutes is typically needed for most chicken nuggets. However always refer to the package instructions as your primary guide, as sizes and thicknesses can vary between brands. Frozen nuggets will take a little longer than thawed.
Here are some general oven timing guidelines based on a 400°F oven:
- Small frozen nuggets: 15-18 minutes
- Large frozen nuggets: 18-20 minutes
- Small thawed nuggets: 12-15 minutes
- Large thawed nuggets: 15-18 minutes
No matter what the package states, always verify doneness with an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of cooked chicken should reach 165°F.
Factors That Influence Cooking Time
Several factors can impact just how long chicken nuggets need to cook in the oven:
-
Nugget size and thickness – Larger and thicker nuggets will require more time than smaller thinner ones.
-
Oven accuracy – Ovens can vary in how accurately they hold a set temperature. Using an oven thermometer is recommended.
-
Nugget temperature – Frozen nuggets take longer than thawed or room temp nuggets.
-
Crowding the pan – Too many nuggets crowded together can steam instead of brown. Leave space between each for airflow.
-
Oven hot spots – All ovens have spots that run hotter or cooler. Rotate pans halfway through cooking.
Knowing these factors can help troubleshoot any oven timing issues.
Getting the Perfect Crispiness
Beyond just cook time, there are several tricks you can use to get the perfect crispy baked chicken nuggets:
-
Use a baking rack – This elevates the nuggets from the pan for improved airflow and crispness.
-
Preheat properly – Allow the oven to fully preheat before cooking.
-
Lightly coat with oil – Brushing with a small amount of olive or avocado oil boosts browning.
-
Don’t overcrowd – Leave space between each nugget to prevent steaming.
-
Flip halfway – Flipping halfway through ensures even cooking on both sides.
How to Tell When Nuggets Are Fully Cooked
Visually, you’ll know they’re done when the breading is golden brown. But the best way to confirm doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer.
Insert the probe into the center or thickest part of a nugget, avoiding any breaded exterior. Let it sit for 15-20 seconds to get an accurate read. The internal temperature should read 165°F. If not, return to the oven for a few more minutes until done.
The nuggets should also feel firm when you cut or bite into one. If there is any pink color visible on the inside or the texture seems undercooked, they need a bit longer.
Trusting the thermometer over appearance is always the safest route to prevent undercooked chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook frozen chicken nuggets in the oven?
Yes, frozen nuggets can absolutely be cooked in the oven! Just extend the bake time by a few minutes and verify temperature. Never thaw before baking.
What temperature should I bake chicken nuggets?
400°F is ideal. High enough to crisp and brown without overcooking.
Should I flip chicken nuggets when baking?
It’s recommended to flip halfway through for even browning and cooking on both sides.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Check internal temp with a thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F. Also look for golden brown breading and firm texture.
Can I use foil instead of a baking sheet?
Yes, but your nuggets may brown less evenly. A baking rack on a sheet pan is best.
How long do baked nuggets last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken nuggets keep 3-4 days stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
The Takeaway
With the right oven setup and timing, you can achieve perfectly crispy baked chicken nuggets at home. Preheat your oven, don’t overcrowd the pan, use a baking rack, and always verify doneness with a thermometer. In most cases, 10-15 minutes at 400°F does the trick. Follow these tips for the ideal crunch!
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/chickennuggetssecond-5bf303df46e0fb00589608de.jpg)
Ingredients in baked chicken nuggets
Not only is this healthy baked chicken nuggets recipe quick to make, dairy free, perfectly spiced and requires minimal ingredients that you might even have in your kitchen right now! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breast and cut it into 1 inch cubes.
- Breadcrumbs: the outside of the chicken nuggets get nice and crispy thanks to panko breadcrumbs! You can easily use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep the nuggets gluten-free.
- Olive oil cooking spray: using cooking spray is a KEY to the crispy outside as well. You’ll learn why below.
- Spices: these chicken nuggets get their flavor from onion powder, paprika, a bit of cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat), garlic powder, salt & pepper.
- Eggs & milk: you’ll need both to help the breadcrumbs stick to the cubes of chicken. I used almond milk to keep the recipe dairy free!
- Dipping sauces: have fun with aaall of the sauces like honey mustard (try the homemade one in this recipe!), ketchup or your favorite BBQ sauce for dipping!
Looking for more 30-minute meals?
Enter your email below to get my FREE e-book with our best 30-minute dinners straight to your inbox!
What can I say — they’re truly the BEST healthy chicken nuggets ever.
The first time I tested this recipe I was blown away by just how crispy and flavorful these baked chicken nuggets were. The seasoning is based off my paleo chicken tenders (which I LOVE) but this time I was going for a version that was a little crunchier and one that could even give Chick-Fil-A a run for its money.
The results were FANTASTIC. Seriously tender. So flavorful. Crispy. Perfectly dippable. Outrageously good. ALL THE ADJECTIVES.
