Chicken Nuggies | BLW Friendly Baby Meal

Written by: Jeanette Blandford | Published on July 21, 2026

Everybody loves a chicken nugget, and this veggie-packed spin on the classic is soft enough for even the littlest babes. Freezer friendly and perfect for the whole family.

Everybody loves a chicken nugget. This spin on the classic toddler favourite is friendly for even the littlest babes too.

Quick Recipe Snapshot

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Makes: roughly 20 nuggets
Freezer friendly: Yes
Texture: Soft, finger-food

Age & Texture Guidance

Suitable from around 8 months, but always be guided by your bub's own abilities.
6–9 months: shape into finger-length logs so they are easy for little hands to grab, and squish-test each one to make sure it is soft.
9–12 months: offer nugget shapes or halved fingers as the pincer grasp develops.
12 months+: serve whole nuggets cut into bite-sized pieces.

Allergens Present

Egg and wheat (breadcrumbs).

Allergen Substitutions

Swap the egg for a chia egg (1 tbsp chia + 3 tbsp water), and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal in place of regular breadcrumbs.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Veggie-packed with hidden broccoli and carrot
• Soft enough for little gums
• Freezer friendly for busy days
• A family favourite the whole table can share

Make solids easier - Shop GAME CHANGING products

Bubbie Box - Starting Solids

Bubbie Box

$29.95
Shop Now
The Biggie Box - Starting Solids

The Biggie Box

$72.95
Shop Now

Chicken Nuggies

Ingredients

  • 500g Chicken Mince
  • 1 Carrot
  • 1 Head of Broccoli
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 2 Cloves Garlic
  • 1/2 Cup Breadcrumbs
  • 1 Egg
  • Olive Oil Spray

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 180 degrees celsius.
  • Grease a large baking tray.
  • Place broccoli, carrot and garlic cloves into food processor and pulse until diced into a mince consistency (you could also dice finely if you don't have a food processor)
  • Add chicken mince, egg and onion powder to the food processor and mix until combined.
  • Roll mixture into desired shape (you can do nugget shape or fingers for younger babies), roll into crumb to coat and place on prepared baking sheet.
  • Spray with olive oil spray.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes turning once after 15 minutes.

Storage Instructions

Store cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, lay cooled nuggets on a tray to firm up, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until piping hot all the way through, then allow to cool to a safe temperature before serving to bub.

Nutrition Notes

Chicken provides protein and iron to support your growing bub, while the broccoli and carrot add fibre and a gentle veggie boost. Pairing these nuggets with a vitamin C–rich side such as capsicum or tomato can help the body take up the iron from the chicken.

Parent Tip

Make a double batch and freeze half — these are a lifesaver on the days when there is no time to cook from scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without a food processor?

Yes. Finely grate or very finely chop the broccoli, carrot and garlic by hand, then mix everything together in a bowl.

Can I pan-fry instead of bake?

You can lightly pan-fry in a little olive oil over medium heat, turning to brown each side, until cooked through. Baking is a hands-off option that uses less oil.

How do I know they are cooked through?

Cook until there is no pink remaining in the middle and the juices run clear. Always cool to a safe temperature before offering to bub.

My bub is doing baby-led weaning — what shape is best?

Roll the mixture into finger-length logs rather than rounds so they are easy for little hands to pick up and self-feed.

You might also like

First Straw Cup - Starting Solids

Babies First Straw Cup

$26.95
See Product