Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets recipe offers a healthier take on a classic favorite, delivering crispy, golden nuggets with a perfectly seasoned breading. Using the air fryer means less oil and a quicker cook time, making it an ideal weeknight meal or snack that kids and adults alike will love.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Nuggets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (divided)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 2×2-inch chunks)
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Mixtures: In one shallow bowl, combine half the flour with the salt, black pepper, and paprika. In a second shallow bowl, pour in the milk. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken chunk first into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the milk, and finally into the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. For extra crispiness, repeat the milk and breadcrumb dip one more time.
- Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Nuggets: Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Drizzle or brush the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the nuggets for a crispy finish. Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken nuggets from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For homemade breadcrumbs, pulse day-old bread in a food processor until coarse crumbs form.
- You can substitute milk with buttermilk for added tenderness and flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
