These Oven Baked Masala Chicken Nuggets are a delicious platter of jazzed chicken nuggets. This is one appetizer that will disappear fast if put in front of the crowd at any party or sports event.
I marinated the chicken in lots of garam masala powder which is a mix of spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamoms, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, mustard seeds and fennel seeds. This spice mix really packs a punch and will give the chicken a wonderful savory flavor.
I then coated the marinated nuggets in a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs to give a nice crunch to the nuggets. I like to use both types of breadcrumbs to get really nice coverage around the nuggets. Then the nuggets were easily baked in the oven and served with a simple store bought mango chutney. I really love Patak's brand and it's found in many grocery stores around the US in the international foods aisle--I am just a fan of their products...I am not linked with Patak's in any official way.
You will be the MVP (most valuable player) of the game if you put these savory Masala Nuggets out for your next gathering. You can feel good about indulging in them too since they are low fat and baked.
Oven Baked Masala Chicken Nuggets
Recipe by Ramona from Kitchen Simmer
Ingredients:
3 pounds of chicken tenders
Marinate:
2 cups buttermilk
2 Tbs garam masala powder
red chili powder (or cayenne) to taste
1 Tbs paprika
1 Tbs grated fresh ginger
2-3 cloves grated fresh garlic
salt and black pepper
Bread Coating:
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
2 cups regular breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
2 tsp paprika
1 Tbs dried parsley
Directions:
Cut chicken tenders into large chunks to form nuggets. Then marinate nuggets in buttermilk, garam masala, garlic, ginger, paprika, red chili powder (or cayenne), salt and black pepper for 24 hours in the fridge. 
Mix all ingredients for breading. Take chunks of marinated chicken one at a time and coat with breading. 
Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Lay coated nuggets on tray and spray the tops of the coated nuggets with more cooking spray. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping over halfway through baking. Serve hot with mango chutney dipping sauce below. 
Mango Chutney Dipping Sauce
Ingredients:
Jar of Mango Chutney
1-2 Tbs water
Directions:
Spoon 1/2 cup chutney into bowl or saucepan and heat up in the microwave or stove-top until you have dipping sauce for your nuggets.
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