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Crispy Hidden Veggie Chicken Nuggets with Cauliflower and Cheese

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These crispy chicken nuggets sneak in cauliflower and cheese for a nutritious, kid-friendly meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender inside, they make a wholesome comfort food for busy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound chicken breast, finely chopped or ground
  • 1 cup cauliflower, steamed and finely grated or pulsed
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray or cooking oil for greasing
  • Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Steam the cauliflower florets until just tender (about 5 minutes), then pulse in a food processor or grate finely. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped or ground chicken with the cauliflower, shredded cheddar, and if using, Parmesan cheese and parsley.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with a spatula or your hands until just combined.
  5. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Using about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture for each nugget, shape into small bite-size pieces. Dip each nugget into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
  6. Place the coated nuggets evenly spaced on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway. For air frying, cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Nuggets should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let the nuggets rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from cauliflower to prevent soggy nuggets. Use Japanese-style panko breadcrumbs for best crunch. Lightly spray nuggets with oil before baking for a golden crust. Baking straight from frozen is not recommended for best texture; thaw and drain frozen cauliflower thoroughly. For gluten-free, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken nuggets, hidden veggies, cauliflower, cheese, crispy, kid-friendly, quick dinner, healthy nuggets

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/crispy-hidden-veggie-chicken-nuggets-with-cauliflower-and-cheese-easy-recipe/