The Best Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Nuggets (Pickle-Brined)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
30 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
164 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
The Best Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Nuggets (Pickle-Brined)
Description
The chicken breasts are cut into bite-sized pieces and marinated in pickle juice, which acts as a brine to tenderize and impart a mild vinegar flavor. Optional brown sugar and black pepper can be added to balance and season the marinade. After marinating for at least 30 minutes to 24 hours, the chicken is removed, patted dry, and seasoned with salt and smoked paprika for a smoky note.
Cooking is done in a preheated air fryer at 375°F, with the basket coated lightly in nonstick spray to prevent sticking. The chicken pieces are cooked in a single layer, sprayed again for crisping, and air fried for 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway. The internal temperature target is 155°F to allow safe carryover cooking to 165°F, ensuring juicy, fully cooked nuggets.
These nuggets benefit from resting briefly after cooking to allow juices to redistribute and finish cooking. They can be served with preferred dipping sauces and enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal.
The recipe also includes instructions for indoor or outdoor grilling at medium heat, turning after 3 minutes, and cooking another 2-3 minutes until done. Grilling methods can be used with kebabs for easier handling.
Ingredients
To Marinate:
- 1 lb. chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces, boneless
- 1/2 cup pickle juice 120g
- 1 tsp brown sugar optional
- 1/2 tsp black pepper optional
After Marinating:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Add chicken, pickle juice, brown sugar and black pepper (if using) to a large bowl or ziploc bag). Toss, place in fridge and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).
- Remove chicken from the brine and lightly pat dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle all over with the salt and paprika.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray air fryer basket with nonstick spray. Add the chicken in a single layer. Spray a little more nonstick spray on top of the chicken. Cook for 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway, or until cooked through (no longer pink when you cut down the middle or when internal temperature has reached 155F*).
- Remove chicken from air fryer basket and transfer to a plate or cutting board. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
Notes
- Carryover cooking will raise internal temperature to 165°F, preventing overcooked chicken.
- For grilling, preheat to medium (~450°F) and grease grates to avoid sticking.
- Chicken can be cooked on skewers to simplify turning and cooking evenly on the grill.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 164 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 85g | |
| Calories | 164kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 0.1g | 0% |
| Protein | 35.2g | 70% |
| Fat | 1.2g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3g | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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