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<p>When I think of comfort food, I often remember the meals my family shared during quieter moments. There’s something incredibly satisfying about gathering around the table with a hearty dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. One of my favorite recipes that never fails to impress the kids (and the adults, too) is my Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets. They're a delicious way to sneak in some wholesome ingredients without anyone batting an eye. Plus, they’re fantastic for busy weeknights or meal prepping for that lunchbox with a twist.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Let me tell you why this works</h2>
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<p>This recipe is everything a good nugget should be: tender on the inside, with a satisfying crunch on the outside. The marriage of shredded chicken and chopped broccoli creates a lovely balance between protein and vegetables, making them both filling and nutritious. Each bite provides a pleasing texture, thanks to the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese that crisp up beautifully in the oven. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy that crunch without the guilt.</p>
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<p>Assembling these nuggets takes just a little effort, but trust me, it’s worth your time. They are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces, whether it’s a zesty yogurt dip, a classic ketchup, or a homemade honey mustard. The versatility makes them a staple in our home, and I think they’ll become a favorite in yours, too.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gather these ingredients</h2>
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<p>Here's what you’ll need to make these delightful nuggets:</p>
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<li><strong>1 cup cooked chicken, shredded</strong>: Use any leftover roast chicken or poached chicken. If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.</li>
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<li><strong>1 cup broccoli, steamed and chopped</strong>: This adds nutrition and color. You can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.</li>
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<li><strong>1/2 cup breadcrumbs</strong>: Whether you choose plain or seasoned, breadcrumbs provide that satisfying crunch. If you have stale bread lying around, feel free to blitz it in the food processor for a fresh batch!</li>
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<li><strong>1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese</strong>: This is where the umami flavor comes in. If you're feeling adventurous, go for a sharper cheese like pecorino for added depth.</li>
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<li><strong>1 egg, beaten</strong>: This acts as a binder to hold everything together. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, a flaxseed meal mixed with water could work in a pinch.</li>
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<li><strong>Salt and pepper to taste</strong>: Don't skimp on seasoning; it really brings the flavors to life.</li>
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<li><strong>Olive oil for cooking</strong>: A light brush helps achieve that crispiness we all crave.</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How this recipe comes together</h2>
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<p>Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to prepare these nuggets step-by-step:</p>
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<li>Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).</li>
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<li>In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined—it should come together like a cohesive family unit.</li>
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<li>Using your hands, shape the mixture into small nugget shapes—aim for something bite-sized. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with cleanup.</li>
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<li>Lightly brush each nugget with olive oil. This step is crucial; it’s what gives them that golden color and appealing crunch.</li>
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<li>Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. A little patience here will reward you—don’t rush the baking process.</li>
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<li>Allow the nuggets to cool slightly before serving—this is the hardest part, I know!</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to plate and pair</h2>
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<p>These nuggets shine when served with dipping sauces that compliment their flavor. I love pairing them with a tangy yogurt sauce or a homemade salsa verde. For a wholesome meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or roasted sweet potatoes. The contrast of textures and flavors enhances the experience and rounds out your meal quite nicely.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Storing and reheating tips</h2>
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<p>Leftover nuggets? Well, consider yourself fortunate, as these are delightful the next day! Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze them for up to a month.</p>
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<p>To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, or give them a quick blast in the microwave—just add a drop of water to keep them from drying out.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A few things that make a difference</h2>
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<p>If you can, toast the breadcrumbs lightly before using them. It adds a lovely depth of flavor. And don’t be shy with seasoning—taste as you go to ensure it’s just right. If you want to switch things up, feel free to experiment with different veggies, like finely chopped carrots or bell peppers, to make these nuggets your own. For an extra treat, you could even add a sprinkle of favorite herbs, like dill or thyme.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Different ways to try it</h2>
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<p>Getting creative in the kitchen can be part of the fun! Here are some suggestions:</p>
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<li><strong>Swap in other vegetables</strong>: Spinach or zucchini can be muddled into the mix for a different flavor profile.</li>
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<li><strong>Spice it up</strong>: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a little kick.</li>
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<li><strong>Experiment with cheeses</strong>: Try a mix of mozzarella for melted goodness or a sprinkle of feta for tang.</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients</h2>
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<li>1 cup cooked chicken, shredded</li>
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<li>1 cup broccoli, steamed and chopped</li>
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<li>1/2 cup breadcrumbs</li>
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<li>1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese</li>
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<li>1 egg, beaten</li>
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<li>Salt and pepper to taste</li>
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<li>Olive oil for cooking</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Directions to follow</h2>
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<li>Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).</li>
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<li>In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.</li>
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<li>Shape the mixture into small nugget forms and lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.</li>
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<li>Brush each nugget lightly with olive oil.</li>
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<li>Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.</li>
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<li>Let cool slightly before serving.</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your questions answered</h2>
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<li><strong>Can I use raw chicken?</strong> Yes, you can, but make sure to cook it through before mixing with other ingredients.</li>
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<li><strong>Can these nuggets be made gluten-free?</strong> Absolutely! You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties or oats.</li>
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<li><strong>How do I keep them from being soggy?</strong> Be sure to drain any excess moisture from the broccoli before mixing. It helps maintain the crunch.</li>
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<li><strong>Can I bake these in advance?</strong> Yes, they can be prepped and baked just before serving. They also keep well for leftovers!</li>
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<li><strong>What sauces do you recommend for dipping?</strong> A tangy yogurt dip or classic ketchup works wonderfully, but feel free to get creative!</li>
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<p>Cooking isn’t just about feeding our bodies; it’s about sharing experiences and creating cherished moments. These Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets do just that—they bring a sense of home to the table. I encourage you to try this recipe, make it your own, and feel free to share any twists you come up with! Let’s keep the joy of cooking alive.</p>
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Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets
These Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are a delicious way to sneak in wholesome ingredients without anyone batting an eye. Baked for a guilt-free crunch, they're perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover roast chicken or poached chicken, or rotisserie chicken.
- 1 cup broccoli, steamed and chopped You can use frozen broccoli, just thaw and drain well.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs work. Stale bread can also be used.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For added depth, use sharper cheese like pecorino.
- 1 large egg, beaten This acts as a binder; a flaxseed meal mixture can be a substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for enhancing the flavor.
- Olive oil for cooking A light brush helps achieve crispy nuggets.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small nugget forms and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each nugget with olive oil.
Baking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
These nuggets are versatile and can be dipped in various sauces. They can be stored in an airtight container for three days or frozen for a month.