Mediterranean Chicken Nuggets
Mediterranean Chicken Nuggets are a wholesome twist on the classic comfort food favorite. These nuggets are made with lean chicken breast, infused with garlic, lemon, oregano, and fresh parsley, then coated in a crisp Parmesan and whole wheat breadcrumb crust. Unlike deep-fried versions, these nuggets are oven-baked or air-fried, delivering all the crunch with less guilt. Served with a side of Greek yogurt tzatziki or hummus, they make a nutritious option for lunch, dinner, or a protein-packed snack for kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re looking for a fun family meal or prepping healthy bites ahead of time, these Mediterranean nuggets are flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 16 nuggets)
Ingredients
For the Chicken Nuggets:
2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes (about 500g)
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Coating:
1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon dried thyme or basil
Optional Dipping Sauces:
Tzatziki sauce
Hummus
Roasted red pepper dip
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and marinate for 15–30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
2. Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and dried thyme or basil.
3. Coat the Chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.
Take each marinated chicken cube and roll it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Cook the Nuggets
Oven-Bake:
Arrange nuggets on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Air-Fryer:
Arrange nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket (in batches if necessary).
Air-fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve
Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Serve with tzatziki, hummus, or your favorite Mediterranean-style dip.
Tips for Success
Even Cutting: Ensure chicken is evenly cut to avoid undercooked or dry pieces.
Crunch Factor: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture than traditional ones.
Don’t Skip the Spray: Light oil spray helps get a golden finish when baking or air-frying.
Make Ahead: Marinate and bread the nuggets in advance and refrigerate up to 1 day before cooking.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp chili flakes or harissa to the marinade.
Herbed Twist: Use fresh mint or dill in the marinade for brightness.
Cheesy Nuggets: Mix shredded mozzarella into the coating for a cheesy crust.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Kid-Friendly: Leave out the garlic and paprika, and serve with ketchup or mild yogurt dip.
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are a great option.
Q: Can I freeze these nuggets?
A: Absolutely. After breading, freeze them in a single layer. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 25 minutes.
Q: What dips pair best with Mediterranean chicken nuggets?
A: Tzatziki, hummus, lemon-garlic aioli, or baba ganoush all work wonderfully.
Q: Can I cook these on the stovetop?
A: Yes. Shallow-fry in olive oil over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – approx. 4 nuggets)
Calories: 280
Protein: 28g
Fat: 11g
Carbs: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 410mg
Note: Values may vary depending on breadcrumb type and dip used.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Nuggets offer a crave-worthy blend of savory spices, fresh herbs, and a crispy coating—without the need for deep frying. They’re the perfect mix of family-friendly and health-conscious, adaptable to different diets, and ideal for prepping ahead or enjoying fresh from the oven. Whether served as a snack, packed into wraps, or paired with a hearty salad, these nuggets are sure to become a Mediterranean staple in your weekly rotation.