Baked Spicy Chicken Nuggets are a fun, easy, and flavorful dish! They can be served in a variety of ways including as an appetizer or as a main meal. Plus, this recipe is made with gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you choose to purchase through qualifying links.

Jump to:

• Why you'll love this recipe:
• 🍴Ingredient Notes
• 🍴Step by Step Instructions
• Expert Tips
• Serving Suggestions
• How to store leftovers
• Recipe
• Want more recipes?
• 💬 Reviews

Why you'll love this recipe:

Versatile - Serve these homemade Spicy Chicken Nuggets in a variety of ways! With salad, steamed vegetables, or as an appetizer with a side of ranch dressing & celery sticks.

Easy - If you're looking for something quick and easy to throw together - this recipe is for you! There are only a few simple and easy to follow steps.

Healthy - Unlike traditional chicken nuggets, this recipe is made by baking the chicken instead of frying it! You can also make them in the air fryer.

Love Buffalo Chicken?! Check out my Buffalo Chicken Soup, Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, and Buffalo Chicken Casserole!

🍴Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Breast - My two favorite brands are Butcher Box and Bell & Evans. Both offer high-quality free-range chicken.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs - For this recipe I used a rice-based breadcrumb, but any gluten-free breadcrumb will work! Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite because they create a crunchy coating.
• Egg - I would not suggest subbing for anything else.
• Buffalo Sauce - For this recipe I used Primal Kitchen dairy-free buffalo sauce, but any buffalo or hot sauce will work.
• Seasoning - You'll need salt, garlic powder, and paprika for this recipe. This creates a nice medium heat - to kick it up a notch add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper!

🍴Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Cut Chicken Breast

Start by cutting chicken breast into small 2-inch pieces. Then pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Mix Eggs & Spices

Next add egg, paprika, garlic powder, and salt into a mixing bowl. Whisk together.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

Add the raw chicken into the egg mixture and stir until chicken pieces are evenly coated. Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bread Chicken

Next, thoroughly coat each piece of chicken with breadcrumbs and place on a parchment paper lined baking tray. Repeat until all chicken is coated.

Step 5: Bake Chicken Nuggets

Place the chicken in the oven at 375 degrees for 10 minutes then flip and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Turn the oven to a high broil setting for 2-4 minutes. (They can burn easily so don't walk away!)

Step 6: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Remove from the oven and transfer the chicken nuggets to a large bowl. Drizzle buffalo sauce over the chicken and stir around until each piece is completely coated. Serve hot!

Expert Tips

• Try to cut the chicken pieces around the same size so they cook evenly.
• Broil the chicken for 2-4 minutes after baking to make the tops golden brown.
• If you air fry the chicken nuggets, they will cook a little faster. Air fry for 16-20 minutes at 375 degrees.
• Do not forget to FLIP the chicken nuggets halfway through baking. This will ensure that the bottom does not get soggy.
• Make sure the chicken is fully coated in buffalo sauce or hot sauce. The breadcrumbs will quickly absorb the sauce!
• Let the chicken marinate overnight for extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer- You can serve these Buffalo Chicken Nuggets with a dairy-free ranch dressing as a quick and easy appetizer. I love using the brand Primal Kitchen.

They also go great with a side of carrot and celery sticks!

Buffalo Chicken Salad - Serve with a large garden salad that has a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and grape tomatoes. This is a great way to make a simple Buffalo Chicken Salad.

Meal Prep or Family Style - Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Salad ahead of time for lunches to enjoy throughout the week or serve family style for dinner!

Chicken Wraps - Cut the chicken into smaller pieces to create a buffalo chicken wrap! Serve with shredded lettuce, avocado, and fresh tomato.

Use gluten-free wraps or lettuce wraps for a lighter option. (I love using Siete cassava flour tortillas!)

How to store leftovers

If you have leftovers, they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

To re-heat you can air fry, microwave, bake, or cook them in a frying pan for a few minutes.

More chicken recipes!

After you make these Baked Spicy Chicken Nuggets, make sure to leave a comment & rate the recipe!

Recipe