Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a healthier, crispy alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken nuggets, offering all the crunch without the excess oil. The air fryer ensures the nuggets are golden brown and perfectly cooked on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Made with simple ingredients, these chicken nuggets are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite seasonings or breadcrumbs. Whether you’re serving them for a quick weeknight dinner, as a fun snack, or for a crowd, these homemade nuggets are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coating: In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow bowl, beat the egg. In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Then dip it into the egg, followed by the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Nuggets: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Spray the chicken nuggets with a little more cooking spray or drizzle with a bit more olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Cook the Nuggets: Air fry the chicken nuggets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken nuggets from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
These Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and so easy to make! The air fryer gives them the perfect crunch without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier yet equally delicious option for a quick meal or snack.
