Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets: the Recipe for Homemade, Tasty and Crunchy Chicken Nuggets!

There’s no doubt, chicken nuggets are a universal crowd-pleaser. But those deep-fried treats can quickly leave you feeling a little greasy. Thankfully, the trusty air fryer offers a guilt-free way to enjoy this classic comfort food. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight snack or a fun party appetizer. By using pantry staples you likely already have on hand, they come together in a flash. The key to air fryer magic is the circulating hot air that mimics deep frying, which requires significantly less oil. It’s so easy to make too! Simply grind a few chicken pieces, then coat them in a crispy breadcrumb mixture before letting the air fryer work its wonders. In just minutes you'll have golden brown nuggets that are juicy on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside. And the best part? These nuggets can be customized with your favorite spices and seasonings, making them a fun activity for the whole family.

What are Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets?

Chicken nuggets – those bite-sized pieces of breaded chicken that bring smiles to faces of all ages – have a surprisingly long history! Invented in the 1950s by a food science professor at Cornell University, Robert C. Baker, they were originally called "Chicken Crispies". Their purpose? Finding a way to use up leftover chicken parts and create a convenient, kid-friendly food. Today, chicken nuggets are a global phenomenon, enjoyed in restaurants and homes worldwide. But the classic deep-fried version can be a bit greasy. Enter the Air Fryer Chicken Nugget! These tasty morsels are essentially chicken nuggets cooked in a countertop convection oven called an air fryer. It circulates hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior – similar to deep frying, but with a fraction of the oil!

Tips

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Chicken breasts tend to be leaner, while thighs offer more flavor.
• Cornflakes offer great texture, but crushed crackers, Panko breadcrumbs, or even tortilla chips can add fun variations.
• Add your favorite spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even a kick of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Just like a regular oven, preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking.
• Air circulation is essential for crispness. Cook nuggets in a single layer, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
• A light mist of cooking spray on the breaded nuggets helps achieve maximum crispiness.
• Use a food thermometer to ensure your nuggets reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Are Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Healthy?

Compared to deep-fried nuggets, Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a healthier option. They use significantly less oil, resulting in fewer calories and less fat. However, they are still breaded and fried, so they won't be as healthy as, say, grilled chicken.

Do I Need To Preheat The Air Fryer For Chicken Nuggets?

While not always mandatory, preheating your air fryer for a few minutes helps ensure even cooking and crispier results.

Why are my Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets soggy?

There are a few reasons your nuggets might be soggy. Overcrowding the basket, not preheating the air fryer, or using wet ingredients in the breading can all contribute to sogginess.

What Can I Use Instead Of Breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, tortilla chips, or even cornflakes can all be used to create a delicious and crunchy coating for your nuggets.

Can I Make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Gluten-Free?

Sure! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating.

Can I Make These in Advance?

Yes: prepare the nuggets up to the point where they are breaded with cornflakes, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to cook, you can bake them directly from frozen in the air fryer, adjusting the cooking time slightly longer to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.

How Long Do Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Need to Be Cooked For?

Preheat your air fryer to 392°F (or 200°C) and cook them for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket regularly and flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

More Nuggets Recipes You Will Love

Classic Chicken Nuggets

Vegetarian Nuggets

Vegan Nuggets

Zucchini Nuggets

Salmon Nuggets

Potato Nuggets

How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Let the cooked nuggets cool completely to room temperature before storing them. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Start by chopping the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and then grinding them.

In a bowl, mix the chicken with your favorite spices. Include garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder.

Using lightly oiled hands, combine everything evenly and aim to create nuggets around 45 grams each, which is a good size for air frying.

In separate bowls, prepare your breading stations. In one bowl, whisk the eggs. Then, crush the cornflakes and add it to another bowl. This will create the crispy coating for your nuggets.

Take the chicken pieces one at a time and dip them in the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then, roll them in the crushed cornflakes, making sure they're evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This ensures even cooking. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Place the breaded nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don't crowd them!). Air fry for 10 minutes at 200°C (400°F). For thicker nuggets or extra crispness, consider flipping them halfway through the cooking process.