Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAfter a chaotic day with a fussy baby and a dwindling list of meal ideas, I found myself desperately searching for a solution. That’s when I stumbled upon this easy recipe for Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets. These delightful little bites are packed with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, making them the perfect baby-friendly food that’s gentle on tiny tummies and easy to chew. The best part? They are quick to prepare and can be conveniently frozen for those busy days when cooking feels impossible. You can whip up a batch in no time and have a healthy, homemade meal ready at a moment’s notice. Curious about how to make these nutritious nuggets? Let’s dive in! Why Are Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Perfect? Baby-friendly: These nuggets are designed specifically with little ones in mind, making them a great first food! Quick Preparation: They come together in a snap, perfect for busy parents juggling mealtime chaos. Healthy Ingredients: Made with ground chicken and fresh broccoli, you can feel good about what you’re serving! Freezable Convenience: Whip up a big batch to keep meals easy and stress-free on hectic days. Customizable Options: Mix in your baby’s favorite puree or substitute with other soft veggies to suit their taste. You’ll love how these Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets can turn mealtime into a delightful adventure while keeping things nutritious! Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Ingredients • A delightful mix of nutritious and baby-friendly ingredients awaits! For the Nuggets Ground Chicken Breast – Provides a lean protein that’s perfect for tiny tummies; can be substituted with ground dark meat for richer flavor. Broccoli – Mashed for a soft texture and packed with nutrients; feel free to swap with other soft vegetables like spinach or cauliflower. Olive Oil – Helps achieve that crispy exterior; you can use another mild cooking oil if preferred. Salt – Enhances flavor but can be omitted entirely for a baby-friendly option. With these healthy ingredients, creating homemade Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets is not just easy—it’s a treasure trove of nutrients for your little one! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli Begin by steaming or boiling the broccoli in a pot of water for about 5–7 minutes until it’s tender and vibrant green. This gentle cooking method ensures the nutrients are preserved. Once softened, remove the broccoli from the heat and let it cool slightly before mashing it with a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth, yet chunky puree. Step 2: Combine Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed broccoli with the ground chicken breast. Using your hands or a spatula, blend the mixture thoroughly until the chicken and broccoli are evenly incorporated. Aim for a uniform consistency, ensuring there are no large clumps. This step is vital for the Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets to hold together while cooking. Step 3: Shape the Nuggets Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape your nuggets. Take small portions of the mixture, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and roll them between your hands to form uniform nugget shapes. This uniformity helps them cook evenly, giving a satisfying bite. Place the formed nuggets on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper for easy transfer. Step 4: Preheat the Pan In a non-stick frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1-2 minutes until shimmering but not smoking. Properly preheating the pan is crucial for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust on your Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets as they fry. Step 5: Fry the Nuggets Gently place the nuggets into the hot oil, ensuring they have enough space between them to cook evenly. Fry the nuggets for approximately 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them, flipping only when the first side is nicely browned—a satisfying crunch will be your cue for perfect cooking! Step 6: Let Them Cool Once cooked, use tongs to transfer the nuggets to a cooling rack or a paper towel-lined plate. It’s important to let the Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets cool completely before serving, as this will allow them to firm up and make them easier for little hands to grasp. The final result should be crispy on the outside and tender within, perfect for your baby’s mealtime! Storage Tips for Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Fridge: Store cooked Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to retain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the nuggets by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, microwave refrigerated nuggets for 30-45 seconds, or heat frozen nuggets for 1-2 minutes, checking the temperature to ensure they are warm throughout. Prep Ahead: Feel free to batch cook these nuggets, as their freezable convenience makes mealtime stress-free on days when cooking isn’t an option! What to Serve with Baby-Friendly Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Ready to create a wholesome, balanced mealtime experience that your little one will cherish? Sweet Potato Wedges: Soft, naturally sweet, and easy to chew, they provide a delightful contrast to the crispy nuggets. Soft-Cooked Vegetables: Broccoli or carrots, steamed until tender, add color and nutrients without overwhelming flavors for your baby. Plain Yogurt Dip: This mild, creamy option doubles as a nutritious dip and encourages adventurous flavors without being too intense. Applesauce: Sweet, smooth, and familiar, this fruit puree serves as a wonderful dipping companion while introducing healthy fiber. Introduce textural variety by pairing the nuggets with soft fruit pieces like ripe bananas. Their sweetness balances the savory nuggets perfectly, making every bite an adventure for tiny taste buds! Make Ahead Options These Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are perfect for meal prep, helping busy parents save valuable time during the week! You can prepare the mixture—ground chicken and steamed broccoli—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mash the broccoli, mix it with the chicken, and shape into nuggets. Store the formed nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When it’s time to serve, just fry the nuggets directly from frozen or after thawing in the fridge overnight for just as delicious results with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Consistency Matters: Ensure the chicken and broccoli mixture is blended to a smooth consistency to avoid any choking hazards. It should not be overly mushy. Cooking Temperature: Monitor heat carefully while frying the nuggets. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are cooked through safely. Nugget Size: Keep nugget sizes small (about 1-1.5 inches) for easier handling by babies and even cooking. Larger nuggets may not cook through or might be difficult for tiny hands to manage. Reheating Tips: When reheating cooked Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets, use the microwave. Heat refrigerated nuggets for 30-45 seconds or frozen ones for 1-2 minutes, checking the temperature prior to serving. Flavor Variations: Feel free to add pureed veggies or herbs while mixing for extra nutrition and flavor without overwhelming your baby’s palate. Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Variations Get ready to personalize your Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets with a few delightful twists that will keep mealtime exciting! Veggie Boost: Add finely grated carrots or peas to the mixture for added vitamins and colorful fun. This variation not only enhances nutrition but also introduces new textures for your little one to explore. Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a subtle flavor lift. These fresh notes can make the nuggets more aromatic and delightful without being overpowering, perfect for tiny taste buds. Spice it Up: For older babies, consider a pinch of mild paprika or garlic powder for a hint of warmth. Just start with a little, as you can always add more; this twist turns your nuggets into a culinary experience! Egg-Free Option: Use a flaxseed meal mixture instead of eggs to bind the ingredients together for an egg-free nugget alternative. Combine one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until gel-like—they’ll hold together beautifully! Swap the Protein: Try using ground turkey or even lentils for a plant-based option. Lentils provide a wonderful texture and are packed with protein, ensuring your little one stays satisfied while keeping it meat-free. Cheesy Addition: Mix in a bit of finely shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for added creaminess and flavor. Just be cautious with salt, as cheese can add enough on its own, keeping it baby-friendly. Crunchy Coating: For a contrast in texture, consider coating the nuggets in crushed rice cereal before frying. This gives each bite a satisfying crunch that babies may love to munch on! Feel free to experiment with combinations that suit your baby’s tastes or dietary needs. You can even serve these nuggets alongside sweet potato wedges or a dipping sauce like plain yogurt for an even more enjoyable meal, reminiscent of our tasty Smothered Chicken Rice. Remember, customization can make home-cooked meals a fun adventure! Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Recipe FAQs How do I select the best broccoli for my nuggets? Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for vibrant green florets with firm stalks. Avoid any that have dark spots or yellowing, as this indicates overripeness. If you can, opt for organic broccoli to ensure freshness and no pesticide residue. How should I store my Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets? To keep your nuggets fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing. This prevents moisture buildup, which soggifies the nuggets! Can I freeze Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets? Yes, you can! To freeze, first place your cooked nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching. Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just reheat from frozen and check the temperature! What should I do if my nuggets fall apart while cooking? Very! If you find your nuggets are falling apart, it may be due to the mixture being too dry or not thoroughly blended together. To troubleshoot, add a small amount of water or olive oil to moisten the mix. Ensure that you compact them well while shaping to help them hold together during frying. Are Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets suitable for babies with allergies? Certainly! If your baby has specific allergies, such as to chicken or gluten, you can modify the recipe accordingly. Consider using ground turkey or even a plant-based protein substitute. Always consult your pediatrician when introducing new foods to monitor for any allergic reactions. How long does it take to reheat frozen Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets? Reheating those frosty nuggets is a breeze! Simply pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth throughout. If you prefer a crispy texture, you can also bake them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking! Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets Your Baby Will Love Chicken and Broccoli Nuggets are nutritious, baby-friendly bites that are easy to prepare and perfect for tiny tummies. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 nuggetsCourse: SnacksCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Nuggets1 pound Ground Chicken Breast Can be substituted with ground dark meat for richer flavor.1 cup Broccoli Mashed; feel free to swap with other soft vegetables like spinach or cauliflower.1 tablespoon Olive Oil You can use another mild cooking oil if preferred.1/2 teaspoon Salt Can be omitted entirely for a baby-friendly option. Equipment Mixing BowlNon-stick frying panPotSteamerspatulaTongs Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by steaming or boiling the broccoli in a pot of water for about 5-7 minutes until tender.In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed broccoli with the ground chicken breast and blend thoroughly.Shape small portions of the mixture into nuggets about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.In a non-stick frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes.Gently place the nuggets into the hot oil and fry for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.Transfer the nuggets to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate to cool completely before serving. Nutrition Serving: 2nuggetsCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 25gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure the chicken and broccoli mixture is blended to a smooth consistency to avoid any choking hazards. Monitor heat carefully while frying; the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure they are cooked through safely. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
