🍗Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets 🍟

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

January 29, 2025

Crispy, Kid-Approved & Healthier! Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

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Ditch the freezer aisle—these Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are crispy, juicy, and made with real ingredients you can pronounce! Perfect for picky eaters, meal prep, or guilt-free snacking, this recipe delivers all the crunch of fast-food nuggets with 80% less oil. Let’s make magic in your air fryer!

Why This Recipe is a Win

Healthier than store-bought – no mystery additives!
Ready in 20 minutes – faster than drive-thru!
Kid-approved and adult-approved
Freezer-friendly – make a big batch and reheat!
Customizable – gluten-free, spicy, or extra crispy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders), cut into 1-inch chunks
1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
2 large eggs + 2 tbsp milk
1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor!)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper
Cooking spray (avocado or olive oil)

(Optional: Add ½ tsp cayenne for spicy nuggets! )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels (this helps the coating stick!).

Set Up Dredging Station

Bowl 1: Flour + salt + pepper.
Bowl 2: Whisked eggs + milk.
Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs + Parmesan (if using) + garlic powder + paprika + onion powder.

Coat the Nuggets

Dip each chicken piece: Bowl 1 → Bowl 2 → Bowl 3. Press breadcrumbs firmly to coat.

Air Fryer Time!

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the basket. Arrange nuggets in a single layer (no overlapping!).
Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Serve & Dip!

Let cool slightly. Pair with ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch!

Pro Tips for Perfect Nuggets

Use panko breadcrumbs – they’re crispier than regular breadcrumbs!
Spritz with oil – a light spray ensures golden crunch.
Double-coat – dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice for extra crunch.
Check internal temp – chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Freeze raw nuggets – store in a ziplock bag for quick future meals!

Serving Ideas

Kid’s Meal: Fries + apple slices + yogurt dip
Salad Boost: Add nuggets to a greens + ranch salad
Party Platter: Serve with 3-4 dipping sauces and veggie sticks!

Why Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets?

These nuggets are a lifesaver for busy families! The air fryer crisps them to perfection without the grease, and you control the ingredients—no artificial junk. Plus, they’re versatile (gluten-free? Low-carb? Easy swaps!) and freezer-friendly. Win-win!

Tag us in your nugget pics! Tried it? Share your twist below!

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