Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Crispy and juicy chicken nuggets made easily in the air fryer, perfect for a healthier take on a classic favorite.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Place chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and place nuggets in a single layer.
  6. Spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
  7. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Marinating in buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken.
  • For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4-5 nuggets)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg