Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These air fryer chicken nuggets are quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients. They’re healthier than store-bought or fast-food versions and don’t require deep frying. Perfect for busy weeknights, lunchboxes, or as a party snack, they’re freezer-friendly and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and dips.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs or panko
• Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Directions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
2. In three separate bowls, set up a dredging station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, coating well.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
6. Place the nuggets in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each one.
7. Spray the tops of the nuggets lightly with oil.
8. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes 10–12 minutes per batch. Total time: approximately 25–30 minutes.

Variations

• Use seasoned panko for extra crunch.
• Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour if needed.
• Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
• Make them cheesy by adding shredded cheddar to the breadcrumb mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy. You can also freeze cooked nuggets for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and work great in this recipe. Just trim off excess fat before cutting into pieces.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps achieve a crispier texture, so it’s recommended, though not strictly necessary.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, plain or seasoned breadcrumbs both work. Panko provides extra crunch.

How do I make the nuggets extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs, don’t overcrowd the basket, and spray the nuggets lightly with oil.

Can I freeze the nuggets before cooking?

Yes, you can bread the nuggets, freeze them in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Popular choices include ketchup, honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayo.

How do I know when the nuggets are done?

They should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Are these nuggets healthier than fried ones?

Yes, air frying uses significantly less oil while still delivering a crispy result.

Can I make these without eggs?

You can use a mixture of milk and flour or plant-based milk as a substitute for the egg in the dredging process.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken nuggets are a healthier, homemade version of a fast-food favorite that you can feel good about serving. Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, they’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Keep a batch ready in your freezer or whip them up fresh for a quick, delicious meal or snack.

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

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Homemade air fryer chicken nuggets that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and healthier than deep-fried versions. Perfect for kids, parties, or quick meals.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
2. Prepare three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
3. Coat each chicken piece in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
5. Spray basket lightly with oil and arrange nuggets in a single layer.
6. Spray tops of nuggets with oil.
7. Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp).
8. Serve hot with dipping sauce of choice.

Notes

• Don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure even crisping.
• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
• Freeze breaded nuggets before cooking for easy make-ahead meals.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6–8 nuggets
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 120mg