Step-by-step instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully blended.
Shape the Nuggets: Use dinosaur cookie cutters or your hands to shape the mixture into fun dino forms.
Egg Dip & Coat: Dip each nugget into beaten egg and then coat with additional breadcrumbs for that extra crunch.
Arrange for Baking: Place the nuggets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil on top.
Bake: Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces for an instant hit at the dining table!
Best ways to enjoy it
These tasty dino nuggets pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces. Consider classic choices like ketchup and BBQ sauce, or get creative with ranch dressing or honey mustard. Serving them alongside fresh veggie sticks or a simple salad can make for a well-balanced meal that kids love.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your leftover dino nuggets, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save them for longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped or contained to prevent freezer burn.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture and shape the nuggets ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Get Creative with Shapes: If dino shapes aren’t available, use other fun cookie cutters! Stars, hearts, or even simple squares work just as well.
- Crispy Finish: For extra crunch, you can air-fry them instead of baking! Just toss them in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes at 400°F.
Creative twists
- Flavor Infusions: Add different seasonings like smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs to give these nuggets a twist based on your family’s preferences.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground chicken with mashed chickpeas or plant-based meat alternatives to create a veggie-friendly version.
- Cheesy Variation: Mix in additional cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey, cheesy nugget.
Common questions
How long does it take to make these dino nuggets?
From prep to bake, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes making Crispy Homemade Dino Nuggets.
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute can work well if you’re looking for alternatives.
How do I reheat leftover nuggets?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven keeps them crispy.
Bring the joy of cooking into your kitchen with these delightful dino nuggets, and watch as the smiles and laughter unfold during mealtime!
