Description
A cozy and crunchy weeknight recipe that combines ground chicken and finely chopped broccoli into delicious, healthier nuggets.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli (about 1 small head, lightly steamed)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for brushing)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
- Prep the broccoli first. Finely chop the florets into very small pieces and steam for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then spread on a towel to cool and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper if baking.
- Combine ground chicken, steamed and chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, Greek yogurt, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the nuggets into uniform sizes, about 2 tablespoons for each nugget.
- Coat the nuggets in breadcrumbs if desired for an extra-crispy exterior.
- Arrange on the sheet pan or air fryer basket, leaving space between nuggets. Brush with olive or avocado oil.
- Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, flip gently, and bake another 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through, or air-fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Rest the nuggets on a rack for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For freezing, shape and bread the nuggets, flash-freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen with added baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 nuggets
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: healthy, chicken nuggets, broccoli, kid-friendly, freezer-friendly