Baked Low Carb Chicken Nuggets

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20–25 minutes | Yields: About 16-20 nuggets

The Ingredients

  • 2 cups Diced Chicken (Note: The image prominently features canned chunk chicken. If using canned, use about two 12.5oz cans. You can also use finely diced or shredded pre-cooked chicken!)

  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature

  • 1 Large Egg

  • 2 tbsp Green Onions, finely chopped

  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder

  • Optional: Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the cheesy nuggets don't stick.

  2. Prep the Chicken (Crucial Step!): If you are using canned chicken like in the photo, thoroughly drain the water. Then, use your hands or a paper towel to squeeze out as much excess moisture from the chicken as possible. The drier the chicken, the crispier your nuggets will be!

  3. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chicken, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, egg, chopped green onions, and garlic powder. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything together until it forms a cohesive, slightly sticky "dough".

  4. Shape the Nuggets: Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture at a time. Roll it into a ball in your hands, place it on the prepared baking sheet, and press it down slightly to form a classic nugget shape.

  5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes.

  6. Flip and Crisp: Carefully remove the pan, flip each nugget over with a spatula, and return to the oven for another 10 to 12 minutes, or until the outsides are deeply golden brown and crispy.

  7. Cool and Serve: Let the nuggets cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before serving. Because they are cheese-based, they need a few minutes to set up and firm so they don't fall apart. Serve with your favorite sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch, or ketchup!

Pro-Tips for Extra Crunch:

  • The "Breading" Illusion: Notice that 1/4 measuring cup of white crumbs in the top right picture? While it's not listed in the main ingredients, many people like to roll these nuggets in a little bit of grated parmesan cheese or almond flour right before baking to give them an even crispier, breaded texture!

  • Air Fryer Method: You can definitely make these in the air fryer! Spray your basket, arrange in a single layer, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

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