Homemade Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Introduction

These homemade crispy air fryer chicken nuggets are a healthier, delicious alternative to fast food. Perfectly seasoned and coated with a crunchy panko crust, they cook quickly in the air fryer for a satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 2 inch pieces
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Olive oil cooking spray

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the panko, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Working with one piece of chicken at a time, dip it in the egg mixture until coated. Use a fork to transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture and toss until coated, pressing to adhere. For a thicker breading, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture, then toss again in the breadcrumbs.
4. Step 4: Spray the air fryer tray with olive oil. Place each breaded chicken piece into the air fryer in a single layer without overcrowding or overlapping. The pieces should be barely touching. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size. Once full, spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil.
5. Step 5: Air fry at 400 degrees F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Substitute buttermilk for milk in the egg wash for a tangier flavor and more tender nuggets.
• Try different spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to customize the seasoning.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the nuggets on a greased baking sheet at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage

Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the coating crunchy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well and tend to be more juicy. Just cut them into similar sized pieces for even cooking.

How do I know when the chicken nuggets are fully cooked?

Cook the nuggets until the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Homemade Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 78 reviews

Enjoy perfectly crispy and golden homemade chicken nuggets made effortlessly in the air fryer. These bite-sized nuggets feature a flavorful, seasoned panko breadcrumb coating that delivers crunch without deep frying. This healthier take uses simple ingredients and cooks quickly for a delicious snack or meal that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 2 inch pieces

Breading

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Egg Wash

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk

Finishing

• Olive oil cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir thoroughly and set aside.
2. Make the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Set aside.
3. Coat the Chicken Pieces: Take one chicken piece at a time and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture and toss until evenly coated, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere. For a thicker coating, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then back into the breadcrumb mixture once more.
4. Prepare the Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer tray or basket lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken pieces into the air fryer tray in a single layer without overcrowding or overlapping—they should barely be touching. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches. Once loaded, spray the top of the chicken nuggets lightly with olive oil cooking spray.
5. Air Fry the Nuggets: Cook the chicken nuggets in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip the nuggets halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping on all sides. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.

Notes

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow the hot air to circulate for even crispiness.
• Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken pieces and air fryer model.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
• For extra spicy nuggets, increase the cayenne pepper amount according to taste.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

Keywords: Air fryer chicken nuggets, crispy chicken nuggets, homemade chicken nuggets, air fryer snack, healthy chicken nuggets