Quick Baby Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe

Introduction

These Quick Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are a perfect bite-sized meal for your little one. Packed with protein and veggies, they’re easy to make and gentle on a baby’s palate. Plus, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside—ideal for tiny hands and growing taste buds.

Ingredients

• 6 broccoli florets
• 150 grams minced chicken
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by steaming your broccoli in a steaming basket until tender. If you don’t have a steaming basket, boil the broccoli in water until soft. Transfer to a large bowl and mash with a fork until roughly pureed.
2. Step 2: Add minced chicken, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, shredded cheese, and egg to the mashed broccoli. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Step 3: Wet your hands and shape the mixture into about 12 uniform nuggets. Place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper to prepare for frying.
4. Step 4: Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the nuggets until each side turns a deep golden brown and crispy, ensuring they’re cooked through.
5. Step 5: Serve the nuggets warm on their own or with a mild sauce. They can also be paired with fruits, vegetables, or other snacks your baby enjoys.

Tips & Variations

• For a softer texture, finely grate the broccoli instead of mashing. You can also swap panko bread crumbs for finely ground oats for a gluten-free option.
• Try adding a pinch of mild herbs like parsley for added flavor suitable for babies.
• Ensure the nuggets are fully cooked by cutting one open before serving to check for any pink inside.

Storage

Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the nuggets and freeze them before frying. Just thaw and fry when ready to serve for the best texture.

Are these nuggets suitable for babies with food allergies?

These nuggets contain egg and dairy (cheese), so they are not suitable for babies with allergies to those ingredients. You can omit cheese and use an egg substitute if needed, but always consult with your pediatrician before introducing new foods.

Quick Baby Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 141 reviews

These Quick Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are a nutritious and delicious snack specially designed for babies. They combine steamed broccoli, minced chicken, cheese, and breadcrumbs to create soft yet crispy bites, perfect for introducing little ones to wholesome foods. The nuggets are pan-fried for a golden exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 nuggets 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli Mixture

• 6 broccoli florets
• 150 grams minced chicken
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Binding Ingredients

• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Prepare and Mash the Broccoli: Begin by steaming the broccoli florets in a steaming basket until tender, about 5-7 minutes. If a steaming basket is unavailable, boil the broccoli in water until soft. Transfer the cooked broccoli to a large bowl and mash it with a fork until it reaches a roughly pureed texture, suitable for baby’s easy consumption.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the minced chicken, garlic powder, panko bread crumbs, shredded cheese, and egg to the mashed broccoli. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and holds together, forming the base for the nuggets.
3. Shape the Nuggets: With wet hands to prevent sticking, take portions of the mixture and form them into roughly 12 uniform nugget shapes. Arrange the shaped nuggets on a baking tray lined with baking paper. This preparation ensures they are ready for cooking in the pan.
4. Pan Fry the Nuggets: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the nuggets in the pan and fry them on each side until they develop a deep golden-brown color, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This method creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.
5. Serve and Store: Serve the nuggets warm on their own or with a baby’s favorite dipping sauce. These nuggets pair well with fruits, vegetables, or other snacks. Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and kept for up to 3 days, or frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Notes

• Ensure broccoli is mashed finely enough for easy chewing and swallowing for babies.
• Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture; regular breadcrumbs can be substituted if needed.
• Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the size of the nuggets to ensure they are cooked through.
• Always check the temperature before serving to babies to avoid burns.
• Freezing the nuggets in a single layer before placing them in a container prevents sticking.

Keywords: chicken nuggets, broccoli nuggets, baby food, healthy snacks, toddler snacks, finger food, homemade nuggets