Written by Judith Lynn - Paediatric Nutritionist.

These breadcrumbed chicken pieces are a fantastic option for fussy eaters, especially when incorporating healthier meal choices into their diet. The familiar and comforting texture of the crispy breadcrumb coating, combined with the tender chicken inside, makes this dish highly appealing to those who might be hesitant to try new foods. You can also customize the recipe by adding different herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mix, allowing you to tailor the flavour to suit even the most particular tastes. Serving these chicken pieces with a variety of dips can also make mealtime more interactive and fun, encouraging fussy eaters to enjoy their food and potentially explore new tastes. This recipe is not only nutritious but also versatile and kid-friendly, making it a perfect addition to any meal plan aimed at improving the eating habits of those with selective palates.

Breadcrumbed Chicken Pieces

Ingredients:

- 500g chicken breast, cut into strips
- 120g wholemeal breadcrumbs (you could use a mixture of white and wholemeal) or 3-4 slices of bread PLUS 1 teaspoon of dried mixed herbs (optional).
- 2 large eggs
- 50g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavour) and 1 teaspoon of garlic granules (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray (for a healthier option compared to deep frying)

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C, gas mark 6). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.

2. Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, mix the plain flour with paprika, garlic granules, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and add extra flavour.

3. Egg Wash: Beat the eggs in a separate shallow dish. This will act as a glue for the breadcrumbs.

4. Breadcrumbs: Add  3-4 slices of wholemeal bread or mixture of wholemeal and white into a blender and whiz for 20-30 second. Or buy already made.  Place the wholemeal breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish. You can season the breadcrumbs with a little salt and pepper and herbs if desired (leave salt out if giving to babies).

5. Coating the Chicken: First, coat each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip next into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken strip in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat well.

6. Baking: Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking tray or in the air frier. Spray lightly with olive oil. This will help achieve a golden and crispy texture.

7. Cooking: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or the air frier for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy. OR, shallow fry in some light olive oil. 

8. Serving: Serve hot with a side of mixed salad, steamed vegetables and some homemade tomato sauce or dipping sauce. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

This recipe is not only very appealing for fussy eaters but also a great recipe for the whole family providing a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. 

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken Breast

- High in Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth, making it ideal for those focused on fitness and health.
- Low in Fat: Compared to other cuts of chicken, the breast is lower in fat, making it a healthier choice for heart health and weight management.

Wholemeal Breadcrumbs

- Fibre: Wholemeal breadcrumbs are a good source of dietary fibre, which is important for digestive health particularly if you have a Little One who is constipated. Fibre also keeps you feeling full longer.
- Nutrients: Being made from whole grains, they contain more vitamins and minerals than their white counterparts, such as B vitamins and iron.

Eggs

- Protein: Eggs are another excellent source of high-quality protein, contributing to muscle maintenance and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: They are rich in vitamins D, B6, B12, and minerals such as zinc, iron, and copper.

Olive Oil Spray

- Healthy Fats: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Antioxidants: It also contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Spices (e.g., Paprika, garlic granules)
- Health Benefits: Many spices, including paprika and garlic granules, have health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to promote metabolism.

Remember, the way ingredients are prepared and cooked can also affect their nutritional value. Baking, is a healthier cooking method compared to frying, as it reduces the amount of fat needed to cook the chicken great for parents being mindful of their own fat intake.