Chicken Broccoli Nuggets For Baby Recipe

So your tiny human has decided they’re too fancy for plain purées now? Congrats. Welcome to the land of “I want finger foods but also I’ll throw them on the floor for sport.” Lucky for you, these chicken broccoli nuggets for baby are the perfect mix of nutritious, easy, and sanity-saving. And honestly… they’re kind of delicious for adults too (no judgment if you steal a few).

Why This Recipe is Awesome

First of all, you get to sneak in veggies without your baby giving you that “I know what you did” stare. These nuggets are soft, tender, and easy to hold—basically engineered for chubby little hands.
Also, this recipe is idiot-proof, and yes, I say that with love. Even if you’re running on three hours of sleep and cold coffee, you’re not messing this up. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly. Meal prep win? Absolutely.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Broccoli Nuggets

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped (AKA: use leftovers, no one’s judging).
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped super tiny—like “wow, this is small” tiny.
• 1 egg, the magical food glue.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or whole wheat—be wild).
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (optional but highly recommended for flavor… and happiness).
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil for brushing or light pan-cooking.
• A pinch of garlic powder (optional, but it makes you feel like a gourmet parent).
• Salt? Skip it for babies under one.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blend or mix the good stuff. In a bowl, mix chicken, broccoli, egg, cheese, and breadcrumbs. It should look like a chunky green-ish mash. If it looks too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
2. Shape the nuggets. Use your hands to form small, baby-friendly nuggets. (Yes, your hands will get messy. Embrace it.)
3. Choose your cooking method.
   
   • Bake: Place on a lined baking tray, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Air fry: Same temp, 8–10 minutes. They get deliciously golden.
4. Cool completely. Baby mouths are tiny and sensitive—don’t be the parent who forgets this.
5. Serve and watch your baby demolish them… or drop them on the dog. Either way, memories are being made.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chopping. Big broccoli chunks = nugget chaos.
• Adding salt for babies under one—don’t do it; their kidneys will fight you.
  
• Not greasing the tray. Unless you enjoy scraping food like a medieval punishment.
• Thinking you don’t need to preheat the oven—rookie move, friend.
• Serving them piping hot. You will get betrayed by a scream.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• No chicken? Use turkey or even canned tuna IMO (tuna makes life easy).
• No broccoli? Swap with spinach, peas, or carrots. Basically anything soft and “baby-safe veggie-ish.”
• No breadcrumbs? Use oat flour, crushed baby puffs, or blended oats. Babies love oats like it’s a personality trait.
• Want dairy-free? Skip the cheese. Still totally tasty.
• Want extra flavor? Add a tiny pinch of onion powder. Your baby won’t know but will mysteriously love you more.

FAQs about Chicken Broccoli Nuggets

Can I freeze these nuggets?

Absolutely. Freeze them flat on a tray, then toss into a bag. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer or oven.

Can my 8-month-old eat these?

Yep! As long as they handle soft finger foods and you cut the nuggets into safe, manageable pieces. Safety first—chaos second.

Do I have to use an egg?

Eggs help bind everything, but if your baby is allergic, you can use mashed potato, breast milk–soaked oats, or a flax egg. You’re welcome.

Can I make these without cheese?

Totally. Cheese is for extra flavor, but the recipe works fine without it. Your baby won’t start a protest, promise.

Are these adult-approved, too?

Listen… I “tested” three myself. So, yes.

Can I make these on the stove?

Sure! Lightly oil a pan and cook on medium heat until golden on both sides. Just don’t wander away mid-flip like I did.

What if my baby doesn’t like them?

Welcome to parenting. Try again tomorrow. Babies change their culinary opinions faster than their diapers.

Related Recipes

• Savory Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
•  Maple Bacon Cheddar Biscuits Recipe
• Blooming Onions Appetizer Recipe

Final Thoughts about Chicken Broccoli Nuggets

You did it! You now have a batch of heartwarming chicken broccoli nuggets for baby that are nutritious, easy, and honestly kind of fun to make. Go ahead—freeze a bunch, serve a few, and enjoy the peace of knowing your little one is munching on something homemade and wholesome.