Name: Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (seasoned with Italian seasoning, if desired); 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 large Egg; 3 tablespoons White whole-wheat flour; 1/2 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets. Growing up, chicken nuggets were a staple in my household, a go-to meal that never failed to bring smiles to our faces. Now, as an adult, I’ve discovered a healthier way to enjoy this classic dish without sacrificing taste. Using the air fryer, I can create crispy and golden nuggets that are guilt-free yet delicious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat, these nuggets are perfect for both kids and adults alike. I love serving them with a variety of dipping sauces, making each bite a flavor adventure. It’s also a great way to sneak in some lean protein for my family. So, ready to indulge in this easy yet satisfying recipe? Let’s dive into the world of homemade chicken nuggets!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

The Best Thing About This Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Healthier Alternative

One of the best things about these Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets is that they are a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions. The air fryer allows you to achieve that coveted crispy texture with much less oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence. You get all the crunch without the unnecessary calories!

Quick and Easy Preparation

Preparing these nuggets is a breeze! In just a matter of minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something tasty without the fuss.

Customizable Flavors

The best part about making your own chicken nuggets is that you can customize the flavors to suit your preferences. You can play around with different seasonings, dips, and coatings to create a variety of options that cater to everyone’s taste.

Family-Friendly Fun

These nuggets are a hit with kids and adults alike. They make for an exciting family meal, especially when served with a selection of colorful dipping sauces. You can even turn this into a fun cooking activity with your children, letting them help with the breading process!

Perfect for Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets reheat beautifully in the air fryer, retaining their crispy texture. This means you can enjoy them again without compromising on flavor!

FAQ

To make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives. There are many gluten-free breadcrumb options available, or you can make your own using gluten-free bread. Additionally, ensure that the seasonings you use do not contain gluten. This way, you can still enjoy the same delicious flavor while catering to gluten sensitivity.

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for more even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can cook the nuggets from frozen, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165℉ before serving.

When it comes to pairing dipping sauces with Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets, the options are endless! Classic choices like ketchup and barbecue sauce are always a hit. For something a bit different, try honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha sauce. You can also make a homemade dipping sauce by mixing Greek yogurt with your favorite herbs and spices. The possibilities are endless and will enhance your nugget experience!

To keep your Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets crispy, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook them in batches if necessary. Additionally, make sure to preheat the air fryer before adding the nuggets, as this helps achieve that desired crunch. Spraying a light coating of oil on the nuggets before cooking can also enhance crispiness. Lastly, be sure to serve them immediately after cooking for the best texture!

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. With their crispy outside and juicy inside, they’re sure to become a staple in your home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. You won’t regret it, and your family will thank you for it!

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

The ultimate comfort food, Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets offer a crispy, golden exterior and tender chicken inside. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these nuggets are made healthier in the air fryer without sacrificing flavor. You'll crave these delicious bites again and again!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs seasoned with Italian seasoning, if desired
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1 large Egg
3 tablespoons White whole-wheat flour
1/2 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes

Equipment

Air Fryer

Method

Preheat your air fryer to 400℉.
Mix the panko, cheese, paprika, and salt, and spread onto a large, rimmed plate.
Place the egg in a medium bowl and whisk it.
Finally, place the flour in a medium, rimmed plate.
Dredge the chicken in the flour, followed by the egg, shaking off any excess.
Cover the pieces with the panko and place into the mesh basket of your air fryer.
Cook until golden brown and crispy and an instant read thermometer reads 165℉, about 10 to 13 minutes.
Serve hot!

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze these nuggets before cooking. Just bread them and place them in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Pairing: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or ketchup.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or even add some shredded cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Cooking for a Crowd: To make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and cook them in batches.