Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer Recipe
Crispy, juicy, and quick to make, these Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a family favorite that’s healthier than takeout. Perfectly seasoned, they deliver golden bites of tender chicken every time.
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets come together with simple pantry staples and cook in just 15 minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun, kid-friendly dinner.
What You’ll Need for Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
- Chicken breasts – Lean, boneless cuts that stay tender and juicy inside their crispy coating.
- Eggs – Help the breadcrumbs stick, creating that signature crunch.
- Smoked paprika – Adds a warm, subtle smokiness to the nuggets.
- Garlic powder – Infuses a mild savory depth to every bite.
- Onion powder – Rounds out the flavor with a gentle sweetness.
- Black pepper – Balances the seasoning with mild heat.
- Kosher salt – Enhances every flavor and keeps the seasoning balanced.
- Panko breadcrumbs – Deliver the crunchiest crust, staying light and crisp.
- Cooking oil spray – Ensures golden, even browning in the air fryer.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets in a Snap
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F to guarantee crispy results. Trim and cut the chicken into even chunks so they cook perfectly. Whisk the eggs and spices, dip each piece into the egg mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs for that crave-worthy crunch.
Place the nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket—no overcrowding. Lightly spritz with cooking oil spray to get that deep-fried look without extra oil. Cook for about 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the satisfying crispness in every bite.
Extra Tips for Perfect Nuggets Every Time
Cutting the chicken evenly is key to perfectly cooked nuggets that stay juicy inside. Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of flavor, but regular paprika works too if you prefer something milder. Always cook in a single layer; this keeps each nugget crispy on all sides. For a gluten-free version, swap regular panko for gluten-free crumbs—no one will notice the difference.
Experiment with seasoning by adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or tossing the nuggets in a touch of grated parmesan for a cheesy twist. Serve them alongside fresh veggies and a variety of sauces for a fun dipping platter that keeps everyone happy.
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Keep leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked nuggets once fully cooled; they’ll stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 400°F for a few minutes until hot and crispy again—no soggy nuggets here!
Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 chicken breasts boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 ounces panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free if preferred
- Cooking oil spray
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for approximately 10 minutes. Trim and dice the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch chunks and set aside. In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the eggs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Spread the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Dip each chicken piece first into the seasoned egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even layer adheres. Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer within the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Lightly mist the nuggets with cooking oil spray and air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the nuggets using tongs and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
