Satisfy your cravings guilt-free with these High Protein Homemade Chicken McNuggets, a healthier twist on the fast food classic! Made with tender chicken breast coated in a flavorful panko breadcrumb and Parmesan crust, these nuggets are perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion, and paprika for a delicious punch of flavor. Lightly air-fried or baked, they’re golden, crispy, and packed with protein—ideal for a post-workout snack, kid-friendly meal, or a fun appetizer. With just 20 minutes of prep and simple pantry staples, this recipe proves that homemade is not only better for you but also irresistibly tasty. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy a wholesome, high-protein alternative to the drive-thru!
Cut the chicken breast into equal bite-sized pieces, approximately the size of traditional McNuggets.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Place the all-purpose flour on a separate plate.
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off the excess.
Dip the floured chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
Coat the chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Preheat an air fryer to 200°C (400°F) or preheat the oven to the same temperature.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket or baking sheet with olive oil spray.
Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the baking sheet, making sure the pieces don’t touch.
Spray the tops of the nuggets lightly with additional olive oil spray.
Cook in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes or bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Calories |
1720 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 47.8 g | 61% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.0 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 855 mg | 285% | |
| Sodium | 5689 mg | 247% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 132.6 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.9 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.4 g | ||
| Protein | 195.2 g | 390% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.4 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 776 mg | 60% | |
| Iron | 12.1 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 1784 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.