Go Back
In recent years, air fryer recipes have surged in popularity among home cooks, and for good reason. These innovative kitchen appliances enable you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with significantly less oil, resulting in healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavor or texture. Among the myriad of enticing air fryer dishes, Crunchy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets stand out as a family favorite. This recipe not only captures the essence of traditional chicken nuggets but elevates it with a healthier twist that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Crunchy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Discover a healthier twist on a classic favorite with Crunchy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets! This easy recipe combines tender chicken marinated in buttermilk and a flavorful blend of spices, all coated with crispy panko breadcrumbs. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and golden exterior from air frying, allowing you to savor your favorite comfort food with significantly less oil. Perfect for dinner or snacks, these homemade nuggets are a family hit that you can customize to your taste. Enjoy deliciousness without the guilt!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg

Cooking spray (for air fryer)

Optional: dipping sauces (honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up your breading station by organizing three shallow dishes: place the Panko breadcrumbs in one, the all-purpose flour in another, and crack and beat the egg in the last bowl until smooth.

      Coat the Chicken: When ready to bread, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Take each piece of chicken and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally roll it in the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and sturdy coating.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer by setting it to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes, ensuring it's hot and ready for cooking.

          Arrange Chicken Nuggets: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not touch each other (you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).

            Air Fry the Nuggets: Cook the chicken nuggets in the preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking process to promote even browning. The nuggets are done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

              Serve: Carefully remove the chicken nuggets from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a few minutes for a crunchier coating. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch for a delicious touch.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the chicken nuggets on a platter with a small bowl of each dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color!