Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, these homemade air fryer chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried nuggets.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy delicious, crunchy bites in minutes, perfect for kids and adults alike.Plus, they’re super customizable, allowing you to tweak seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Table of Contents

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe 1

Healthier alternative – Uses significantly less oil than deep frying, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crispy and flavorful – Golden brown perfection with a crunchy, well-seasoned coating.
Kid-friendly – A guaranteed family favorite that even picky eaters will love!
Versatile – Perfect for snacking, meal prepping, or even as a party appetizer.

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Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast (Buy here), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour (Buy here)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (Buy here)
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp garlic powder (Buy here)
1 tsp onion powder (Buy here)
1/2 tsp paprika (Buy here)
1/2 tsp black pepper (Buy here)
1/2 tsp salt (Buy here)
Cooking spray (Buy here)

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe 3

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning for a herby twist
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, savory boost

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Up to 95% Less Oil – Crispy, guilt-free frying without excess fat.
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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Stations

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If adding extra seasonings like Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper, mix them in now.
In a second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, mix in Parmesan cheese if desired.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring even coverage.
Coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 3: Air Fry the Nuggets

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for even cooking.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the nuggets in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
Lightly spray the top of the nuggets with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).

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Dipping Sauce Ideas

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe 2

Honey Mustard – Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and mayo for a creamy and slightly sweet dip.
BBQ Sauce – A smoky and tangy classic that pairs perfectly with crispy nuggets.
Ranch Dressing – A creamy, herby dip that’s always a hit.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo – Mix Sriracha with mayonnaise for a bold, spicy flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Sauce – Melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory option.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness without drying them out.
Freeze: Store uncooked nuggets in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 3-4 minutes to the cooking time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before coating to allow even cooking.

2. What’s the best flour for crispy nuggets?

All-purpose flour works great, but you can use almond flour for a low-carb version.

3. Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

4. Are air fryer nuggets healthier than deep-fried?

Yes! They use significantly less oil, reducing overall fat and calories while keeping that crispy texture.

Enjoy these crispy, juicy air fryer chicken nuggets guilt-free, and don’t forget to check out the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer for effortless cooking.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken nuggets are a game-changer, crispy, flavorful, and so much healthier than traditional deep-fried versions. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of golden, crunchy nuggets that everyone in your household will love.

Whether you're making them for a quick lunch, a fun dinner, or a tasty snack, these nuggets deliver on both convenience and taste.

Don't forget to experiment with seasonings and dipping sauces to customize your nuggets to your liking And if you're looking for even more ways to maximize your air fryer, be sure to check out the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your crispy, homemade chicken nuggets.

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe