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Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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3.9 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (approximately 20-24 nuggets)

Description

These crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a quick and healthier alternative to deep-fried nuggets. Made with tender chicken breast pieces coated in buttermilk-soaked breadcrumbs seasoned with garlic powder and smoked paprika, they deliver a perfectly crunchy texture with less oil. Ready in just 23 minutes, they make a fantastic snack or meal for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Chicken Preparation

  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2/3 lb.)
  • 3/4 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour

Coating Mix

  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 Tbsp cooking oil

Wet Dip

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Cut Chicken: On a clean cutting board, cut the chicken breast into approximately 3/4 inch pieces. You should yield about 20 to 24 nuggets depending on the size of your chicken breast.
  2. Season and Flour: Sprinkle 1/4 tsp of salt evenly over the chicken pieces. Next, sprinkle the flour over the pieces and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly.
  3. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and the remaining 1/2 tsp salt. Stir to evenly mix the seasonings into the breadcrumbs. Add the cooking oil to this mixture and stir until the breadcrumbs are moistened and resemble damp sand.
  4. Prepare Buttermilk Dip: In a separate small bowl, pour the 1/2 cup of buttermilk to use as the wet coating layer.
  5. Coat Chicken Nuggets: Line up your chicken pieces, buttermilk, and breadcrumb mixture. Using tongs or your hands, dip each chicken piece first into the buttermilk, then transfer it to the breadcrumb bowl, pressing and turning to coat evenly. Set the coated pieces aside on a plate.
  6. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for an even cooking environment that crisps the nuggets effectively.
  7. Air Fry Nuggets: Place the chicken nuggets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. If needed, cook in two batches. Air fry for 8 minutes total, flipping the nuggets halfway through cooking for even browning.
  8. Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the chicken nuggets and let them cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. They pair excellently with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • To ensure even crispiness, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
  • For extra spice, add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
  • Leftover nuggets can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for best results.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/air-fryer-chicken-nuggets-recipe/