Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets

by Joanna
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These crispy keto chicken nuggets are truly a game-changer! Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers juicy, golden nuggets that are low in carbsbaked (not fried), and incredibly flavorful.

Made with just a handful of simple ingredients and pantry spices, these nuggets are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun lunch, or a healthy snack that the whole family will love—even picky eaters!

They’re gluten-free, kid-friendly, and crunchy on the outside while tender on the inside—everything you want from classic chicken nuggets but made the keto way. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just want a lighter take on a fast food favorite, this recipe has you covered.

Crispy low-carb chicken nuggets garnished with fresh salad and ranch.

If you’re following a keto diet and find yourself craving fast food, these baked keto chicken nuggets are the perfect low-carb fix! Each serving of 5 juicy nuggets contains just 3 grams of net carbs, making them a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional fast food nuggets.

These homemade keto nuggets come together in just 30 minutes—quick, easy, and full of flavor. The coating is perfectly seasoned with a satisfying crunch, while the chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside.

They’ve become a go-to family favorite in our house, and even the kids ask for seconds! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving them hot out of the oven, these nuggets are guaranteed to be a hit.

Are Regular Nuggets Keto-Friendly?

Regular Chicken Nuggets aren’t suitable for a keto diet. Usually, chicken nuggets are made with a panko (breadcrumbs) crust that is high in carbs. Six pieces of chicken nuggets have about 15 grams of carbohydrates, so that’s high for a ketogenic diet. This way, our daily carbohydrate allowance is quickly consumed if you top it off with a dipping sauce.

But, don’t worry. This is a chicken nuggets recipe that’s made using grain-free keto ingredients is super low in carbs and just as delicious!

Crispy chicken nugget being dipped in ranch dressing with a side salad in the background.

Why Are You Going To Love This Keto Chicken Nuggets Recipe

  • Extra crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside – just like your favorite fast food nuggets but without the carbs.
  • Quick and easy to make at home – These low-carb baked chicken nuggets are ready in just 30 minutes using simple ingredients.
  • Keto, low-carb, and gluten-free – Perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle or avoiding gluten.
  • A healthier homemade alternative – No deep frying, no processed ingredients, and way fewer carbs than store-bought or drive-thru nuggets.
  • Kid-approved and family-friendly – Even picky eaters will love these homemade chicken nuggets, making them ideal for weeknight dinners.
  • Tastes just like McDonald’s nuggets – With the right seasoning and texture, you won’t miss the original version!
  • Great for meal prep – Make a big batch, freeze, and reheat for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Keto Chicken Nuggets

Watch the video below to see how EASY it is to make the best keto chicken nuggets!

Ingredients for Crispy Keto Chicken Nuggets

This quick, budget-friendly, and family-approved recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Here’s everything you need to make these delicious low-carb chicken nuggets:

Raw chicken breasts and keto-friendly seasonings arranged on a white surface.
  • Chicken Breast – I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes. Try to cut them evenly so they cook at the same time. You can also substitute with boneless chicken thighs or turkey breast for a juicier texture.
  • Almond Flour – A great gluten-free option for a crispy coating. You can also use crushed pork rindsunflavored whey protein powder, or coconut flour if you want a nut-free alternative.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds crispiness and flavor to the coating. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture, but pre-grated works fine too.
  • Egg – Acts as the binding agent to help the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
  • Heavy Cream – This helps tenderize the chicken and add moisture. For a dairy-free version, swap it with coconut cream.
  • Seasoning Blend – To give the nuggets that crave-worthy flavor, I use a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.

How To Make Keto Chicken Nuggets

These oven-baked keto chicken nuggets are fast, low carb, and can be made ahead of time! They taste just like being fried in oil!

Step-by-step photo collage for a keto chicken nugget recipe.

Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. It’s important that the chicken breast pieces are the same size so that they cook evenly.

Hands slicing raw chicken breast into cubes on a cutting board.

Coat the chicken pieces– First, dip them into the egg mixture, then coat in the almond flour and parmesan mix.

Breaded chicken nuggets lined up on parchment paper ready for baking.

Bake the chicken nuggets for about 20 minutes or until crispy.

Baked low-carb chicken nuggets with perfectly browned edges.

Tips for Making the Best Keto Chicken Nuggets

Want to achieve crispy, juicy, and flavorful low-carb chicken nuggets every single time? Follow these foolproof tips:

  • Don’t overbake – Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on them, especially toward the end of the baking time. Bake until they’re just golden and cooked through.
  • Coat the chicken thoroughly – Make sure each chicken piece is fully coated in the egg and cream mixture before dredging it in the almond flour mix. This helps the coating stick better and form that perfect crispy crust.
  • Cut chicken evenly – Try to cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes) for even cooking and consistent texture.
  • Use a wire rack – For ultra-crispy nuggets, place the coated chicken on a baking rack set over a sheet pan. This allows hot air to circulate around the nuggets and helps them crisp up on all sides.
  • Spray with oil – Lightly spritz the nuggets with olive oil or avocado oil spray before baking. This helps them turn golden brown and enhances crispiness without deep frying.
  • Chill before baking (optional but helpful) – If you have time, place the coated nuggets in the fridge for 15–30 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the coating and improves the texture.
  • Flip halfway through – Flip the nuggets halfway through baking to ensure they’re evenly browned and crispy on all sides.

How To Store Baked Chicken Nuggets

  • Fridge: Place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them for up to three days.
  • Freezer:  After they are completely cooled, you can put them in a freezer bag or an airtight container and freeze them for up to two months. Grab a serving and place it in the air fryer whenever you need a serving of chicken nuggets.

Reheating Instructions: These keto chicken nuggets may be reheated in the oven or toaster oven until crispy. If you want them extra crunchy, cook them in the skillet for a few minutes longer.

Baked keto chicken nuggets cooling on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Can I Fry these Chicken Nuggets?

Yes. To make keto fried chicken nuggets, add about 1/2 cup of vegetable oil to a large skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until beautifully golden.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy keto chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways—whether you’re snacking, entertaining, or serving a family meal. Here are some of the best low-carb pairings and ideas to round out your plate:

  • Dipping Sauce Favorites – Serve with sugar-free ketchupketo ranch dressingsugar-free BBQ sauce, or a spicy chipotle mayo for an extra flavor punch. You can even try a creamy garlic aioli or a tangy mustard sauce.
  • Keto French Fries – Pair with jicama frieszucchini fries, or baked rutabaga fries for that classic nuggets-and-fries combo—without the carbs.
  • Fresh Side Salad – A crisp Caesar saladcucumber tomato salad, or creamy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch to balance out the rich nuggets.
  • Low-Carb Veggies – Steam or roast some broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans for a nutritious and satisfying side.
  • Lettuce Wraps or Low-Carb Wraps – Turn these nuggets into a wrap using romaine lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas, and top with shredded cheese, avocado, and hot sauce for a fun handheld meal.
Golden-brown baked nuggets plated with veggies and dipping sauce.

Can I Make Keto Chicken Nuggets In an Air Fryer?

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be baked in the air fryers after following the initial steps on the recipe card.

More Keto Chicken Recipes

Crispy low-carb chicken nuggets garnished with fresh salad and ranch.

Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets

5 from 3 votes

Prep time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Yelds 8 servings

Description
 

These crispy keto chicken nuggets are truly a game-changer! Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers juicy, golden nuggets that are low in carbsbaked (not fried), and incredibly flavorful.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs Chicken Breast cut into 1– inch chunks
  • 1 cup almond flour superfine
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • ½ tsp Pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 Egg large
  • 2 tbsp Heavy Cream

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F/ 205°C. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Whisk the egg and heavy cream.
    how to make Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets
  • Into a large bowl, add the chicken pieces and pour the egg mixture. Mix to coat evenly.
    Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets 1
  • Combine the almond flour, grated parmesan, and all the spices into a separate shallow bowl or plate.
    how to make Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets
  • Coat each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then into the almond flour mixture. Toss to coat.
    how to make Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets
  • Place the coated chicken onto the prepared baking tray into a single layer.
    Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets 2
  • Bake in preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time. The chicken is cooked when the internal temperature is 165F.
    how to make Crispy Baked Keto Chicken Nuggets
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or sugar-free ketchup.

Video

Notes

This recipe makes about 40 keto chicken nuggets, and the macros are calculated for a serving of 5 chicken nuggets.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving.
Calories
211kcal
Total Carbs
3g
Net Carbs
Protein
23g
Fat
12g
Fiber
2g
Sugar
1g

How do we calculate the nutrition info?

These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.

Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword keto chicken nuggets
Tried this recipe?Mention @MyketoPlate_ or tag #MyKetoPlate!

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