7 Baked Dog Friendly Chicken Nuggets (No Fry Method)

This is the quintessential dog-friendly nugget. It’s simple, uses pantry staples, and is a fantastic starting point for any pet parent new to homemade treats. The rolled oats act as a healthy, fiber-rich binder, replacing traditional breadcrumbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the most discerning canine palates tend to love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, finely minced)
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons of water (if needed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, rolled oats, and the egg.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a sturdy spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the nuggets tough. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water.
4. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls. Gently flatten them into a classic ‘nugget’ shape.
5. Arrange the nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s a little space between each one.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them over halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Let the nuggets cool completely on a wire rack before treating your pup. This is the hardest step for your furry sous chef!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is perfect for first-time dog treat bakers and for dogs without any specific dietary restrictions. It’s a reliable, healthy, and budget-friendly way to show your pup some love.

Boost the nutritional value of your dog’s treats with the power of sweet potato! This vibrant veggie is packed with vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as fiber, making it fantastic for your dog’s digestive system and overall health. The natural sweetness also makes these nuggets a hit with pups who have a bit of a sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato, cooled
• 1/2 cup rolled oats or almond flour
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for fresh breath)
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. To prepare the sweet potato, you can either bake or boil one medium sweet potato until tender, then remove the skin and mash it well. Let it cool completely.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, mashed sweet potato, oats (or almond flour), chopped parsley, and egg.
4. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture will be a bit wetter than the classic recipe due to the sweet potato.
5. Drop rounded teaspoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten them into nugget shapes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping once at the 15-minute mark. The nuggets should be firm to the touch and lightly browned.
7. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an excellent choice for pet owners looking to add an extra nutritional punch to their dog’s treats. It’s especially good for picky eaters and dogs who could benefit from more fiber in their diet.

Who can resist cheese? Certainly not our canine companions! These little bites are like a healthy broccoli-cheddar soup in nugget form. We use a small amount of low-fat cheese for that savory flavor dogs crave, while finely chopped broccoli adds a dose of greens. These are sure to be a high-value treat in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup finely chopped broccoli florets (steamed and cooled is best)
• 1/4 cup shredded low-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. For best results, lightly steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, then chop them very finely. This ensures they cook through and are easy for your dog to digest.
3. In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, cooled broccoli, shredded cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs.
4. Combine gently until everything is evenly distributed.
5. Form the mixture into small, bite-sized nuggets or ‘tots’ and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Cool completely before letting your pup do a taste test.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for the cheese-loving dog in your life! These nuggets make an amazing high-value reward for training sessions or just as a special snack. Just be mindful of your dog’s tolerance for dairy.

For a touch of fruity sweetness, these apple and chicken nuggets are a delightful surprise. Apple provides a satisfying crunch and is a great source of vitamins A and C, plus dietary fiber. A tiny pinch of cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor that is perfectly safe for dogs in small amounts and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 small apple, cored and finely grated or minced (leave the skin on for extra fiber!)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and core the apple. Grate it using a box grater or mince it into very small pieces. There’s no need to peel it.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated apple, egg, rolled oats, and cinnamon.
4. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls and flatten into nugget shapes. Place them on your prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them over at the halfway point. They should be firm and lightly browned.
7. Let them cool completely, as the apple pieces can be very hot inside.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is ideal for dogs who enjoy fruity flavors. It’s a wonderful, healthy treat to make in the fall or anytime you want to give your pup something a little different from the usual savory snack.

Does your dog have a sensitive stomach or a grain allergy? No problem! This recipe swaps out traditional binders like oats or breadcrumbs for nutrient-rich coconut flour. Coconut flour is high in fiber and healthy fats, making it a fantastic grain-free alternative. These nuggets are light, healthy, and perfect for pups with specific dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/4 cup coconut flour, plus a little extra for dusting
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted (optional, for healthy fats)
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground chicken, coconut flour, egg, melted coconut oil (if using), and water.
3. Mix until just combined. Coconut flour is very absorbent, so the mixture might seem a bit crumbly at first, but it will come together.
4. Lightly dust your hands with a bit of extra coconut flour to prevent sticking.
5. Shape the mixture into small nuggets and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through. These cook a bit faster than oat-based nuggets, so keep an eye on them.
7. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for any dog on a grain-free diet. It’s a simple, healthy, and delicious way to ensure your sensitive pup doesn’t have to miss out on a tasty homemade treat.

This recipe is a powerhouse for digestive and joint health. Pumpkin is a well-known superfood for dogs, famous for its ability to regulate digestion. Turmeric, on the other hand, contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help support joint health, especially in senior dogs. It’s a treat that tastes good and does good!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/4 cup 100% pure pumpkin purée (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, pumpkin purée, rolled oats, turmeric, and egg.
3. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture will have a lovely orange hue from the pumpkin and turmeric.
4. Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking sheet and shape them into nuggets.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping once, until they are firm and cooked through.
6. Let the nuggets cool completely before sharing them with your eager pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An amazing choice for senior dogs, active dogs, or any pup that could use a little digestive or joint support. This recipe turns a simple treat into a beneficial supplement for their overall well-being.

Give your dog’s treats a gourmet twist while freshening their breath! This recipe incorporates finely grated carrots for a touch of sweetness and beta-carotene, along with fresh parsley and mint. Parsley and mint are natural breath fresheners, making these nuggets a treat for your dog’s taste buds and your nose!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated carrot, chopped parsley, chopped mint, egg, and oat flour.
3. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s just combined.
4. Form the mixture into small nuggets and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them over at the halfway point, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Cool completely on a wire rack. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect recipe for pet parents who want to tackle doggy breath in a delicious way. The added vitamins from the carrots make it a wonderfully well-rounded and sophisticated treat for your beloved companion.

Making treats for your dog is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do it safely. Here are some key things to keep in mind when you’re playing chef for your canine.

Choosing Your Protein

While all our recipes call for ground chicken, you have options! Ground turkey is an excellent lean alternative. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and pulse them in a food processor until finely minced. Avoid dark meat with a lot of fat and always ensure the meat is plain, with no added salts, broths, or seasonings.

Safe Binders and Flours

We use binders to hold the nuggets together. Here are some safe choices:

• Rolled Oats/Oat Flour: A great source of soluble fiber.
• Coconut Flour: A fantastic grain-free, high-fiber option.
• Almond Flour: Another low-carb, grain-free choice.
• Brown Rice Flour: Easily digestible for most dogs.

Avoid: All-purpose white flour offers little nutritional value. Never use any flour mixes that might contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs.

Fun and Healthy Add-ins

Want to customize your nuggets? Feel free to add other dog-safe ingredients. Finely chopped spinach, blueberries, or peas can add extra nutrients and flavor. Always research an ingredient before adding it. Onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and should never be used.

Portion Control is Key

Remember, these nuggets are treats, not a meal replacement. They should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. The appropriate number of nuggets will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. When in doubt, start small and consult your vet.

Storage for Freshness

Once the nuggets have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them! Place the nuggets on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. You can thaw them in the fridge or pop a frozen one out for a cool, crunchy treat on a hot day.

1. Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?

Absolutely! An air fryer is a fantastic way to make these nuggets. In most cases, you’ll want to cook them at a slightly lower temperature, around 350-375°F (175-190°C), for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep a close eye on them as they will cook much faster than in a conventional oven.

2. My dog is a very small/large breed. Can I adjust the nugget size?

Yes, you should definitely adjust the size to suit your dog. For a tiny Chihuahua, you might make them the size of a dime. For a Great Dane, you could make them larger, like a silver dollar. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly—smaller nuggets will cook faster, and larger ones will need a few extra minutes in the oven.

3. Are these nuggets a complete meal?

No, they are not. These recipes are designed as supplementary treats and should not be used as a replacement for your dog’s regular, nutritionally balanced food. Think of them as a healthy dessert or a special reward. Always ensure your dog’s primary diet meets all their nutritional needs as recommended by your veterinarian.

4. What if my dog won’t eat them?

While most dogs go wild for these, some can be picky. If your dog turns their nose up, you can try a few things. First, try a different recipe from the list—they may prefer the cheesy version over the apple one. You can also try crumbling a nugget over their regular food to entice them. Sometimes, warming the nugget slightly can make it more aromatic and appealing.