Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

why make this recipe

You get crispy nuggets with less fat and less mess. The air fryer cooks them fast and the breading stays crunchy. Kids and adults like them. You can make them at home with simple steps and common ingredients.

introduction

This Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are simple, crunchy, and ready in about 20 minutes. They use panko for extra crunch and cook with a light spray of oil. If you like air fryer chicken, try this air fryer BBQ chicken breast recipe for another simple meal.

how to make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Work in steps: cut the chicken, set up three bowls for flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then dredge each piece and air fry in batches. Keep the pieces about 1 inch apart so they get crispy all around. Flip once during cooking so both sides brown evenly.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb boneless chicken breast
• 2 eggs
• 1 ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• Avocado oil cooking spray

Directions :

1. Cut the chicken breast into nugget size pieces. About 1 inch cubes. Set aside.
2. In a bowl combine the breadcrumbs and dried parsley.
3. In another bowl combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder and onion powder.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs.
5. Line a large baking sheet with an oven safe wire rack. Set aside.
6. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture then into the egg mixture and then into the breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is completely coated with breadcrumbs.
7. Transfer to the wire rack while you dredge the other pieces. Generously spray the chicken nuggets with cooking spray.
8. Once all the pieces are dredged, transfer them to the air fryer about 1 inch apart. Make sure to not overcrowd the basket and work in batches.
9. Air fry the chicken nuggets at 400 degrees F. for 6 minutes then flip them over and cook for another 4-6 minutes until chicken is cooked and golden brown.
10. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy.

how to serve Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Serve hot with ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch. Add a side of fries, salad, or steamed veggies. For a kid-friendly plate, cut the nuggets small and add fruit on the side.

how to store Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Cool the nuggets to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes from fridge or 8–10 minutes from frozen.

tips to make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

• Pat the chicken dry so the coating sticks better.
• Use panko for extra crunch over regular breadcrumbs.
• Spray the nuggets lightly with oil to help browning.
• Do not crowd the basket — cook in batches for even crisping.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temp.

variation (if any)

• Make spicy nuggets: add ½ tsp cayenne or chili powder to the flour mix.
• Make gluten-free: use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko.
• Make herb flavor: add 1 tsp dried Italian herbs to the breadcrumbs.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes. Cut thighs into similar size pieces and follow the same steps. Thighs may cook a little faster.

Q: Can I bake these in the oven?
A: Yes. Bake at 425°F on a wire rack for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Q: Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
A: Many air fryers work well without preheat, but preheating for 2–3 minutes at 400°F can give a crispier coating.

Q: How do I keep the nuggets from getting soggy?
A: Do not stack them after cooking. Let them rest on a wire rack so air can move around and keep them crisp.

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