Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
208 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Description
This recipe prepares chicken nuggets by cutting skinless, boneless chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch chunks for consistent cooking. The pieces are dipped in an egg mixture seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then coated thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Air frying at 400°F for 12-15 minutes crisps the coating without deep-frying, resulting in a crunchy exterior and tender interior.
The smoky and aromatic flavors from the paprika and spices complement the chicken well, while the panko breadcrumbs provide an airy crunch. Cooking in a single layer in the air fryer ensures even browning. These nuggets are a versatile snack or meal component and can be served with various dipping sauces according to preference.
Practically, the nuggets stay crispy when reheated in the air fryer. They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months once cooked and cooled. For gluten-free needs, substitute regular panko with a gluten-free version, and olive oil spray can be replaced with any neutral cooking oil spray. Cutting nuggets evenly helps with proper cooking and texture.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breast skinless, boneless, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 egg
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3 ounces panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
- cooking oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes.
- Trim any fat from the chicken breast and cut into 1-inch chunks; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- In a shallow dish place the breadcrumbs.
- Now dip each chicken piece into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere.
- Place chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket, in a single layer; you may need to bake in two batches or more, depending on the size of your fryer.
- Spray the nuggets with some cooking oil and air fry for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once done remove the nuggets from the basket with a tong. Serve with your favorite dip and enjoy!
Notes
- Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use smoked paprika for added flavor, or substitute with regular paprika if unavailable.
- Spray oil lightly before air frying to enhance browning and crunch.
- Cook nuggets in a single layer; use batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Store cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 4-8 minutes to regain crispiness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 208 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 208kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 127mg | 42% |
| Sodium | 644mg | 27% |
| Potassium | 474mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 277IU | 6% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 40mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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