Just Bare chicken nuggets are beloved for their tender, juicy meat and crispy, flavorful coating without the grease of traditional frying. This copycat recipe replicates that perfect balance by using oven baking and a simple breading technique, making it healthier and easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into nugget-sized pieces (about 1-1.5 inches)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt diluted with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely crushed cornflakes (optional for extra crunch)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Stir gently to coat and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick.
- Prepare the breading stations: In one shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
- Bread the chicken nuggets: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere well.
- Arrange and spray: Place the coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then flip each nugget and spray again lightly. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the nuggets are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and serve: Let the nuggets rest for 3-5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips
- Buttermilk substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Extra crunch: Using a mix of panko and crushed cornflakes adds a satisfying texture similar to Just Bare’s nuggets.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give the nuggets space on the baking sheet so they crisp evenly and don’t steam.
- Storage caution: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These baked chicken nuggets pair well with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Serve alongside a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal. For a kid-friendly option, add some carrot sticks and apple slices on the side.
Variations
To customize, try seasoning the flour mixture with cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with rice flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal. You can also swap chicken breast for ground chicken formed into nugget shapes or use turkey breast pieces for a leaner option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the nuggets on a baking sheet, and warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. For longer storage, nuggets can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these nuggets without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using. This acidity helps tenderize the chicken and improves coating adhesion.
Why is baking better than frying for this recipe?
Baking reduces the amount of added oil and fat, making the nuggets healthier while still achieving a crispy exterior. Using high heat and cooking spray helps mimic the texture of fried nuggets without the mess and calories.
How do I know when the chicken nuggets are fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest nugget. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The nuggets should also be golden brown and firm to the touch.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken for even cooking and proper breading adhesion. If using frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator before marinating and breading.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture closer to Just Bare’s nuggets. For extra crunch, add crushed cornflakes or crushed saltine crackers to the breadcrumb mix.
Is it necessary to flip the nuggets during baking?
Flipping the nuggets halfway through helps achieve an even crisp on all sides. If you don’t flip, the bottoms may become soggy or overly browned while the tops remain pale.
Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?
You can prepare and bread the nuggets up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator before baking. This can save time on busy days and still yield crispy results when baked fresh.
How can I make the nuggets extra juicy?
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes is key to tender, juicy nuggets. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the meat—use a thermometer to check doneness precisely.
Are these nuggets suitable for kids?
Yes, this recipe is kid-friendly and can be adapted by reducing spices or using mild seasoning. Baking also makes it a healthier option for children compared to fried nuggets.
What dipping sauces complement these nuggets best?
Classic choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or ketchup. For a twist, try sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or a sweet chili sauce to add flavor variety.
This detailed recipe and tips will help you recreate Just Bare-style chicken nuggets at home without frying, delivering delicious, crispy results that are healthier and convenient.
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