Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets

Discovering Quality Nuggets in a Sea of Processed Options

Let me tell you about the day that changed my family’s dinner routine forever. It was a Tuesday evening, I was exhausted from work, and my kids were hangry (that dangerous combination of hungry and angry that all parents know too well). I reluctantly pulled out yet another bag of chicken nuggets from the freezer, silently promising myself that someday I’d find a healthier alternative that my kids would actually eat.

That’s when I discovered Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets, and I haven’t looked back since.

After months of taste-testing, researching, and practically becoming a chicken nugget connoisseur, I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about what might just be the best chicken nuggets on the market. Whether you’re a health-conscious parent, a busy professional looking for quick meals, or someone who simply appreciates good food, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets.

What Exactly Are Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets?

Before I dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s talk about what makes Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets stand out in the crowded frozen food aisle. Unlike many conventional nuggets that are more filler than actual meat, Bettergoods creates premium chicken nuggets that prioritize quality ingredients and nutrition without sacrificing the comfort food taste we all crave.

Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets are made by a company committed to revolutionizing convenience foods. Founded in 2018 by a group of food scientists and nutritionists who were frustrated with the low-quality options dominating the market, Bettergoods set out to create frozen foods that parents could feel good about serving their families.

The first time I tried these nuggets, I was skeptical. How many times had I been disappointed by products claiming to be “better” or “healthier” only to find they tasted like cardboard? But the moment I took that first bite, I knew these were different. They were juicy, flavorful, and had that satisfying crunch that makes chicken nuggets so irresistible.

Where Can You Find These Magical Nuggets?

When I first discovered Bettergoods, they were only available in specialty health food stores in select cities. Thankfully, as their popularity has grown, so has their availability. Today, you can find Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets in a variety of locations:

1. National grocery chains: Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Trader Joe’s typically carry them in their frozen food sections.
2. Regional supermarkets: Many regional chains have started stocking Bettergoods, particularly those that focus on natural and organic options.
3. Online retailers: Amazon Fresh, Thrive Market, and the official Bettergoods website all offer direct delivery to your door—a lifesaver during those weeks when a grocery store trip just isn’t happening.
4. Specialty health food stores: Smaller natural food markets often carry the full range of Bettergoods products, including limited-edition flavors.

I personally prefer buying them from my local Whole Foods because they frequently run promotions (more on those later), but I’ve also set up a subscription through the Bettergoods website to ensure we never run out—because the one time we did, my kids staged what can only be described as a small-scale revolution in our kitchen.

The Real Deal: What’s Actually in These Nuggets?

One of my biggest concerns as a parent has always been knowing exactly what’s in the food I serve my family. We’ve all heard horror stories about mechanically separated meat and mystery fillers in conventional nuggets. So what makes Bettergoods different?

Are Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets Made with Real Chicken?

Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets are made with 100% real chicken breast meat, not the processed blend of parts found in many competing products. The company sources their chicken from farms that raise birds without antibiotics and provides them with vegetarian feed.

This commitment to quality is something I can actually taste. The texture is distinctly different from other nuggets—you can see and feel real chicken fibers rather than the homogeneous paste that makes up most frozen nuggets.

The Organic and Non-GMO Question

For families concerned about pesticides and genetically modified ingredients, here’s the good news: Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets are certified USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. This means not only is the chicken raised without antibiotics, but it’s also fed organic feed grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

I’ve found that many organic products come with a significant price premium, but Bettergoods has managed to keep their prices reasonable while maintaining these high standards—something my budget appreciates almost as much as my conscience does.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients List

When I first flipped over the package to examine the ingredients list, I was pleasantly surprised by how short and recognizable it was. Here’s what you’ll find in the original Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets:

• Organic chicken breast meat
• Organic wheat flour (for the breading)
• Organic cornmeal
• Water
• Organic expeller-pressed sunflower oil
• Sea salt
• Organic spices (including paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder)
• Organic yeast extract
• Organic vinegar

What you won’t find: artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, MSG, or high-fructose corn syrup. For someone who has spent years scrutinizing ingredient labels, this was refreshing.

Gluten-Free Options

While the original Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets do contain wheat in the breading, the company has recognized the growing need for gluten-free options. Their gluten-free variety substitutes the wheat flour with a blend of rice flour and tapioca starch, creating a surprisingly crispy exterior that holds up well during cooking.

As someone with a gluten-sensitive family member, I can attest that these are among the best gluten-free nuggets available. They don’t have the gritty texture or fall-apart consistency that plagues many gluten-free products.

Artificial Ingredients and Preservatives

One of the standout features of Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets is their commitment to clean ingredients. These nuggets contain zero artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. Instead, they use natural ingredients like rosemary extract and vinegar to maintain freshness.

This focus on natural preservation methods means they have a slightly shorter freezer life than some conventional nuggets (about 8 months rather than a year or more), but in my household, they never last long enough for that to be an issue.

Kid-Approved: The Ultimate Test

Let’s be honest—no matter how healthy a food is, if kids won’t eat it, it’s not going to become a family staple. As a parent who has witnessed countless mealtime standoffs, I approached the first Bettergoods dinner with caution.

I needn’t have worried. Not only did my children eat them without complaint, but they actually asked for seconds—a rarity in our household for any food that doesn’t contain chocolate. Since then, Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets have become a weekly request, and I’ve found myself snacking on them after the kids are in bed more often than I’d care to admit.

What makes them so appealing to young palates? I think it’s the balance of real chicken flavor with just the right amount of seasoning in the breading. They’re not bland, but they’re also not overwhelming for developing taste buds.

Additionally, the texture is consistent—no surprise gristly bits or stringy pieces that might put off picky eaters. Each nugget breaks apart with a satisfying crunch before revealing tender chicken inside.

The Price Point: Are They Worth It?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets are more expensive than conventional frozen nuggets. A 14-ounce bag (containing approximately 18-20 nuggets) typically retails for $7.99-$9.99, depending on where you purchase them.

Initially, I balked at paying nearly twice what I had been spending on nuggets. But after factoring in the quality of ingredients, the ethical sourcing, and the fact that my kids were actually eating them without complaint, the value proposition became clearer.

I’ve also found several ways to make them more economical:

1. Buying in bulk when they’re on sale (they freeze well for up to 8 months)
2. Using the subscribe-and-save option on the Bettergoods website for a 10% discount
3. Looking for promotional coupons, which are frequently offered at Whole Foods and on the company’s social media channels

When I consider that I’m paying for real chicken breast rather than fillers, and organic ingredients rather than conventionally grown ones, the price differential makes sense. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for.

Plant-Based Options for Non-Meat Eaters

While the company built its reputation on chicken products, Bettergoods has expanded to include plant-based options that mimic the taste and texture of their original nuggets remarkably well.

Their plant-based nuggets use a blend of pea protein, wheat gluten (except in the gluten-free variety), and mushrooms to create a convincing chicken-like texture. The flavor profile is enhanced with nutritional yeast, which adds a subtle umami quality that many vegan products lack.

I invited my vegetarian sister over for a taste test, and she was impressed enough to stock her own freezer with them. Even my chicken-loving kids were willing to eat the plant-based version when I served them side by side with the regular nuggets in a blind taste test (though they did correctly identify which was which).

Packaging: Sustainable and Practical

In keeping with their commitment to quality, Bettergoods has invested in packaging that’s both functional and environmentally conscious. Their nuggets come in a resealable paperboard box with a thin plastic liner that’s recyclable in many areas.

The packaging is designed to protect the nuggets from freezer burn while minimizing plastic use. It’s sturdy enough to withstand being shuffled around in a packed freezer (I speak from experience here) and the resealable feature means you don’t have to transfer leftover nuggets to another container.

Each box also includes clear cooking instructions for conventional ovens, toaster ovens, microwaves, and air fryers—which brings me to my next point.

Cooking Methods: Finding the Perfect Crunch

Like most frozen chicken nuggets, Bettergoods offers multiple cooking methods. However, unlike many competitors, these nuggets perform well regardless of how you prepare them. Here’s my assessment of each method:

Conventional Oven

Cooking time: 12-15 minutes at 425°F
Results: Evenly crispy exterior with juicy interior
Best for: When you’re cooking for the whole family and want consistent results

The conventional oven is the method recommended on the package, and for good reason. It produces nuggets with a satisfying crunch and ensures they’re heated through consistently.

Air Fryer

Cooking time: 8-10 minutes at 375°F
Results: Extra crispy exterior, slightly faster cooking time
Best for: When you want that deep-fried taste without the oil

The air fryer has become my preferred method for cooking Bettergoods nuggets. They develop an exceptionally crispy exterior while remaining tender inside, and the cooking time is reduced by about a third compared to a conventional oven.

Microwave

Cooking time: 1-2 minutes on high
Results: Faster but less crispy
Best for: When you’re in a hurry or cooking for impatient young children

While microwaving doesn’t yield the same crispiness as other methods, Bettergoods nuggets hold up better than most in the microwave. They don’t become rubbery or tough, which is a common issue with other brands.

Toaster Oven

Cooking time: 10-12 minutes at 425°F
Results: Similar to conventional oven but with less energy use
Best for: Cooking smaller portions without heating up the kitchen

The toaster oven provides a good compromise between the conventional oven’s quality and the microwave’s convenience, making it ideal for quick lunches or after-school snacks.

How Do They Compare to Other Brands?

After trying Bettergoods, I decided to conduct a more formal comparison with other popular chicken nugget brands. I evaluated them based on taste, texture, ingredients, nutrition, and price. Here’s a summary of my findings:

Taste and Texture

Bettergoods nuggets have a distinct chicken flavor that isn’t masked by excessive salt or seasonings. The meat texture is fibrous and recognizable as chicken breast, unlike the paste-like consistency of many competitors.

The breading adheres well to the chicken and provides a satisfying crunch without being too thick or dominating the overall experience. There’s a balanced meat-to-breading ratio that many other brands miss.

Ingredients and Nutrition

Compared to conventional nuggets, Bettergoods offers significantly better nutrition:

• Higher protein content (15g per serving vs. 10-12g in most competitors)
• Lower sodium (390mg per serving vs. 500-700mg in many conventional brands)
• No artificial ingredients or preservatives
• Organic certification
• Hormone and antibiotic-free chicken

The calorie count is similar to other brands (about 210 calories per 4-nugget serving), but those calories come from higher-quality sources.

Price Comparison

As mentioned earlier, Bettergoods nuggets cost more than conventional options. Here’s how they stack up:

• Bettergoods: $7.99-$9.99 for 14 oz ($0.57-$0.71 per oz)
• Premium conventional brands: $5.99-$7.99 for 16 oz ($0.37-$0.50 per oz)
• Budget brands: $3.99-$5.99 for 16 oz ($0.25-$0.37 per oz)

While the price difference is significant, the quality difference is equally notable. After making the switch, I’ve found it difficult to go back to conventional nuggets, even when trying to save money.

Flavor Varieties: Beyond the Original

While the original Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets remain their bestseller, the company has expanded their lineup to include several flavor options:

Spicy

Infused with cayenne and chipotle peppers, these nuggets have a moderate heat level that builds gradually. They’re spicy enough to interest adults but not so hot that they’ll overwhelm most older children.

Garlic Parmesan

These nuggets feature a breading enhanced with real parmesan cheese and roasted garlic. They’re particularly good dipped in marinara sauce for a chicken parmesan-inspired experience.

Herb & Lemon

A newer addition to the lineup, these nuggets have a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile with herbs like oregano and thyme plus lemon zest in the breading.

Buffalo

The newest flavor option mimics the classic buffalo wing experience with a tangy, spicy coating. These are perfect for adults who want something more exciting than the original but don’t want to commit to the heat level of the spicy variety.

All flavored varieties maintain the same commitment to quality ingredients as the original, simply adding organic seasonings to create different taste experiences.

Nutritional Breakdown: The Details

For those who are counting calories or macros, here’s the detailed nutritional information for a 4-nugget serving (about 3 oz) of original Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets:

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 1.5g)
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 390mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g (Dietary Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 15g
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 2%
• Iron: 6%
• Potassium: 4%

The gluten-free and plant-based varieties have slightly different nutritional profiles:

Gluten-Free:

• Slightly higher in carbohydrates (16g)
• Similar protein content
• Slightly higher in calories (220)

Plant-Based:

• Lower in cholesterol (0mg)
• Higher in fiber (3g)
• Slightly lower in protein (13g)
• Similar calorie count (215)

For families watching their sodium intake, it’s worth noting that Bettergoods nuggets contain significantly less salt than many competing products. This makes them a better option for children, who often consume too much sodium through processed foods.

Bulk Buying Options: Feeding the Whole Family

For larger families or those who entertain frequently, Bettergoods offers bulk purchasing options. Their family-size package contains 28 ounces of nuggets (approximately 36-40 pieces) and typically retails for $14.99-$16.99.

Additionally, the company’s website offers a “party pack” option that includes 56 ounces of nuggets at a discounted price of $25.99. This larger size isn’t usually available in retail stores but can be a economical choice for families who eat nuggets regularly.

I’ve found the bulk options particularly useful for hosting playdate lunches or casual dinner gatherings where kids are present. They’re universally well-received and save me from having to prepare multiple different meal options.

What Are People Saying? Customer Reviews

As part of my research, I’ve scoured online reviews and talked with other parents who have tried Bettergoods nuggets. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with a few consistent themes emerging:

Positive Feedback

1. Taste and texture: Many reviewers comment that these nuggets taste “like real chicken” (which says something about the state of most frozen nuggets).
2. Kid approval: Numerous parents report that their children prefer these nuggets to conventional brands they’ve tried previously.
3. Ingredient quality: Health-conscious consumers appreciate the clean ingredient list and organic certification.
4. Cooking versatility: The fact that the nuggets perform well across different cooking methods receives frequent praise.

Criticisms

1. Price: The most common criticism is the higher cost compared to conventional nuggets.
2. Availability: Some customers in rural areas report difficulty finding the product consistently.
3. Package size: A few reviewers mentioned they would prefer larger package options for bigger families.
4. Salt content: While lower in sodium than many competitors, a small percentage of reviewers still found them too salty for their preference.

Overall, Bettergoods maintains an impressive 4.7/5 star rating across major retail platforms, with many loyal customers who purchase them regularly despite the premium price point.

Sustainability Commitment: Beyond Ingredients

In addition to using organic ingredients, Bettergoods has made sustainability a core part of their brand identity. Their chicken is sourced from farms that practice regenerative agriculture, which helps to improve soil health and reduce carbon emissions.

The company also offsets the carbon footprint of their manufacturing and shipping operations through investments in renewable energy projects. Their manufacturing facility in Vermont runs partially on solar power, and they’ve committed to reaching carbon neutrality by 2026.

For consumers who consider environmental impact in their purchasing decisions, these commitments add another layer of value to the product beyond its nutritional merits.

Promotions and Discounts: Saving on Premium Nuggets

If you’re interested in trying Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets but concerned about the price, here are some strategies I’ve used to make them more affordable:

1. Retailer sales: Whole Foods frequently includes Bettergoods in their frozen food promotions, typically offering $2 off per package.
2. Manufacturer coupons: The Bettergoods website offers printable coupons and digital savings that can be loaded to store loyalty cards.
3. Subscription discounts: Setting up a recurring delivery through the company website saves 10%, and you can adjust the frequency to match your consumption.
4. Social media promotions: Following Bettergoods on Instagram and Facebook can alert you to limited-time offers and giveaways.
5. Bundle deals: The company occasionally offers bundle discounts when you purchase multiple varieties together.

By combining these strategies, I’ve managed to reduce the price differential between Bettergoods and conventional nuggets to a point where the quality difference clearly justifies the additional cost.

The Final Verdict: Are Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets Worth It?

After months of including Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets in our meal rotation, my answer is an enthusiastic yes. While they do cost more than conventional options, the combination of superior taste, clean ingredients, and environmental consciousness makes them worth the premium for my family.

What began as an experiment to find healthier convenience foods has become a staple in our household. I no longer feel guilty about serving chicken nuggets as a quick dinner option, and the kids are getting protein from a source I feel good about.

If you’re looking to upgrade your family’s chicken nugget experience without sacrificing convenience, Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets offer a compelling solution that bridges the gap between fast food and home cooking.

I encourage you to try them for yourself—they might just revolutionize your freezer meal game the way they did mine. Just be warned: once your family tries them, there may be no going back to conventional nuggets!

Have you tried Bettergoods Chicken Nuggets or other premium frozen foods? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. And if you have questions I haven’t addressed in this guide, feel free to ask—I’ve become something of a Bettergoods expert through my family’s enthusiastic consumption!