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Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Nuggets - A Family-Friendly, Flavor-Packed Bite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken (preferably a mix of breast and thigh for moisture)
  • 1 heaping cup finely chopped broccoli (lightly steamed and well-drained)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mild blend like cheddar-jack)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko; plus extra for coating)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
  • Dipping sauce of choice (ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or marinara)

Method
 

  1. Prep the broccoli. Steam broccoli florets until just tender, 3–4 minutes. Pat very dry, then finely chop. Excess moisture can make the mixture loose, so don’t skip drying.
  2. Preheat your oven or air fryer. Oven: 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment and lightly oil it. Air fryer: 375°F (190°C), preheat if your model requires it.
  3. Build the mixture. In a large bowl, add ground chicken, chopped broccoli, cheddar, egg, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with a fork or your hands until just combined.
  4. Adjust texture. If the mixture feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs. It should be soft but hold its shape when pressed.
  5. Form the nuggets. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and shape into small oval “nuggets.” For extra crunch, roll lightly in additional breadcrumbs. Place on the prepared pan or air fryer basket.
  6. Oil the tops. Brush or spray the nuggets with olive oil. This helps them brown and crisp nicely.
  7. Bake or air-fry. Oven: Bake 12–15 minutes, flip, brush with a touch more oil, and bake 6–8 minutes more until golden and cooked through.
  8. Air fryer: Cook 8–10 minutes, flip, then another 4–6 minutes. Work in batches if needed.
  9. Check doneness. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The outside will be golden with some melted cheese peeking out.
  10. Rest and serve. Let nuggets sit for 3 minutes so they set. Serve hot with your favorite dip.