Easy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Introduction
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken nuggets without the excess oil and mess of deep frying, Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are the answer. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up golden-brown, juicy nuggets in your own kitchen—making them healthier, faster, and more delicious than their frozen or fast-food counterparts.
Perfect for busy weeknights, kid-friendly lunches, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, this recipe offers maximum convenience and fantastic taste, all with minimal cleanup.
Why These Chicken Nuggets Stand Out
The beauty of these chicken nuggets lies in their irresistible crunch and moist interior, thanks to the air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation. Plus, you control the seasoning and the quality of ingredients—no more mystery meats or additives! Serve them as a quick meal, on top of a crisp salad, or as a protein-packed snack that beats takeout every time.
Prepping Your Chicken the Easy Way
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. To get even, bite-sized pieces, a quality chopper like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper helps speed up prep and ensures evenly sized nuggets. Marinate the chicken in a simple mix of buttermilk and seasonings for at least 15 minutes, or up to a few hours for ultimate tenderness.
Breading for the Perfect Crunch
Prepare your breading station: one bowl for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs. Thorough coating is key! For less mess and more uniform breading, use a large, sturdy surface like the Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3. For those craving extra crunch, add a sprinkle of parmesan or smoked paprika to the panko.
Cooking with an Air Fryer Made Easy
Preheat your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey for the crispiest results. Lining the basket with Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs, 8” Square by Baker’s Signature ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Arrange the nuggets in a single layer and give them a light mist of oil from the YARRAMATE 16oz/470ml Oil Sprayer for Cooking, Black for optimal browning.
Servings and Dipping Suggestions
Pile the nuggets in a bowl or serve on a platter with classic dips like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. For a balanced meal on the go, pack leftovers in the handy Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green. Kids and adults alike will love dipping their crispy, juicy nuggets into their favorite sauces.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 4, with each hearty portion offering about 250-300 calories (without dipping sauces). Air frying dramatically reduces fat and calories compared to traditional frying, so you get all the crunch with much less guilt.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets (Recap)
Nothing beats homemade chicken nuggets—especially when they’re so quick and healthy to prepare! With a crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, these nuggets are sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Set up three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, one for panko breadcrumbs. Mix optional parmesan or extra seasoning into the breadcrumbs if desired.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Place on a large bamboo cutting board or tray.
- Arrange nuggets in a single layer in your preheated COSORI Air Fryer; for best results, line it with air fryer paper liners. Lightly mist nuggets with oil from a YARRAMATE oil sprayer.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure doneness if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Enjoy the golden crunch and juicy bite of homemade chicken nuggets—made simpler, healthier, and tastier thanks to your air fryer!
