Toddler Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Nuggets

• These chicken nuggest are baked, not fried.
• They sneak in a full serving of broccoli, finely chopped and hidden right in the nugget where no one can pick it out.
• They are made with simple, real food ingredients.
• They are freezer-friendly — make a double batch and you’ve got easy toddler meals on standby all month.
• They are perfect for baby-led weaning and toddlers because they soft enough for little mouths, easy to hold, and not a choking hazard.
• The whole family will eat them, toddlers and adults included.

• Ground chicken: A lean source of protein that creates tender, juicy nuggets.
• Broccoli: Finely chopped broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and a sneaky serving of vegetables.
• Oat flour: Helps bind the nuggets together while keeping them soft and wholesome.
• Cheddar cheese: Adds flavor, richness, and a cheesy texture kids love.
• Egg: Helps hold the nuggets together while adding protein.
• Spices: garlic power, onion, powder, salt, and pepper to bring all the flavors together.

Prep your broccoli. Steam your broccoli until it’s completely tender, then let it cool slightly and chop it very finely. You want tiny pieces that will blend right into the nugget mixture — the finer the better.

Mix the nugget mixture. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped broccoli, oat flour, shredded cheddar, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully combined. The mixture will be a little sticky — that’s exactly what you want.

Shape the nuggets. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and shape into small nugget shapes — about 2 tablespoons each. Flatten them slightly so they bake evenly..

Bake. Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until golden on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F

• Ground turkey works just as well and has a very similar mild flavor.
• No oat flour? You can make your own by blending rolled oats in a food processor until fine, or substitute with almond flour for a grain-free option.
• Swap cheddar with mozzarella or Colby Jack, cheese.
• Need it dairy-free? Use a dairy-free shredded cheese — many melt well and work just as nicely in this recipe.
• Frozen broccoli works as well as fresh — just steam, drain really well, and chop finely.

Wet Hands: The mixture can be a little sticky! If you find it’s sticking to your fingers while shaping, lightly wet your hands with water.

Consistent Size: Use a cookie or ice cream scoop to make sure all your nuggets are the same size so they cook evenly.

Crisp: If you want a crispier texture, broil the nuggets for the last minute or two.

Taste and Texture

These nuggets are incredibly moist and tender on the inside, which is perfect for toddlers who might struggle with drier meats or rubbery nuggets. The flavor is cheesy, savory, and delicious.

To Serve: Pair these with a side of sweet potato fries or some sliced fruit. They are delicious dipped in unsweetened ketchup or a little bit of Greek yogurt ranch.

To Store: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, flash-freeze them on a tray first so they don’t stick together, then move them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to get that “freshly made” texture back!

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Toddler Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Nuggets (Baked, Easy & Kid-Approved!)

Dinner time just got a whole lot easier with these protein-packed, veggie-loaded nuggets that your toddler will actually ask for.

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Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli steamed and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

 

• Steam your broccoli until tender, then finely chop it (or pulse it in a food processor) so it incorporates smoothly.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped broccoli, oat flour, shredded cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
• Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture at a time and form it into a nugget shape and slightly flatten.
• Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.
• Nuggets are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!