Description
Soft, tender chicken and broccoli nuggets that make a wholesome finger food for babies and toddlers. These baked nuggets combine protein-rich chicken with nutritious broccoli for an easy, freezer-friendly meal.
Ingredients
1 cup finely chopped broccoli florets, steamed and cooled
1 cup ground chicken
1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Steam the broccoli until very tender. Allow it to cool, then finely chop or mash so it has a soft texture suitable for babies.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic powder.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- With slightly damp hands, scoop small portions of the mixture and shape them into mini nugget forms suitable for little hands.
- Place the nuggets evenly on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or spray them with olive oil.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are lightly golden and fully cooked.
- Allow the nuggets to cool before serving.
Notes
Spinach or finely grated zucchini can be used instead of broccoli.
Mozzarella cheese can replace cheddar for a milder flavor.
Oat flour or finely ground oats can be used instead of breadcrumbs.
For older toddlers, add a small pinch of mild herbs such as parsley.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze cooked nuggets for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Ensure nuggets cool slightly before serving to babies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 nugget (about 30 g)
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg