Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

For a tasty, homemade meal that you can feel good about, try these quick and easy air fryer chicken nuggets.

Ready in just 15 minutes, these deliciously crispy nuggets are made from scratch, so you know what's in them.

Also, making them in the air fryer cuts down on cooking time and the added oils and greases that are used in traditional nugget cooking methods. This recipe is one that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

You are going to love these air fryer chicken nuggets because they are quick, easy, versatile, and kid-friendly.

Making anything from scratch can be a pain when you don't really feel like cooking. However, these chicken nuggets can be cooked quickly and easily in the air fryer, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or a quick snack.

Additionally, these air fryer chicken nuggets are so versatile that you can serve them with just about anything. Serve them with a salad or roasted veggies for a healthier option. Use them to create a delicious buffalo chicken wrap or a chicken caesar wrap. You can even serve these as a fun snack or appetizer with some of your favorite sauces for dipping.

The best part about these air fryer chicken nuggets is how much picky eaters, even kids, like them. And unlike deep-fried or oven-baked nuggets, you can feel good about serving your family these tasty and crispy air fryer chicken nuggets because they are lower in fat and calories.

Ingredients

Ground Chicken:

Using ground chicken for this recipe allows you the shape and mold each nugget. You can also try making these nuggets using ground turkey or pork.

Seasonings:

The seasonings in this recipe are quite simple. However, you can always add more or less of anything you want. Add your favorite herbs like rosemary or dill. Use lemon pepper, or Italian seasoning to amp up the flavor profile in your air fryer chicken nuggets. Have fun and think outside the box!

Panko:

I love to use panko breadcrumbs because I find they have a lighter flavor and a crunchier texture than regular bread crumbs. However, in the absence of panko, you can use Italian-style bread crumbs, crushed cornflakes, or make your own from any stale bread or crackers that you might have on hand.

To make your own, simply tear the stale bread or crackers into small pieces and place them in a food processor until they are broken down into small crumbs. Then, spread the breadcrumbs in a thin layer on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 350F for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Step One: 

In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.

Step Two: 

In a second bowl, combine panko, garlic, parsley, and paprika.

Step Three: 

In a third bowl, beat 1 large egg.

Step Four:

Add half of the panko mix to your ground chicken and mix together. Then use a spoon to measure out and form individual chicken nuggets.

Step Five: 

Dredge your nuggets in the flour mixture.

Step Six: 

Then dredge them in the egg wash.

Step Seven:

Finally, pass them through the panko mixture, then place them in the air fryer.

Step Eight:

Spray your nuggets and the basket with a coating of non-stick cooking spray and cook for 10 minutes at 300F.
You can flip the chicken nuggets halfway through cooking time and spray them with more cooking spray.

Step Nine:

Carefully remove the cooked chicken nuggets from the basket. Cook any remaining nuggets if needed.

Step Ten:

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Tips

• Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before you add the chicken nuggets. This will help ensure even cooking.
• Arrange the chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space around each nugget to avoid overcrowding and ensure evenly cooked nuggets.
• Flip the chicken nuggets halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, ketchup, plum sauce, honey, ranch dressing, or sweet heat sauce.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Air fryer chicken nuggets are a delicious and easy meal that can be paired with a variety of sides.

Chicken nuggets and fries are a classic combination that's always a hit with both kids and adults. Serve your air fryer chicken nuggets with some chili cheese fries or sweet potato fries to zhuzh up this tried and true combo.

Additionally, for a comforting and indulgent meal, serve the chicken nuggets with some creamy mac and cheese, corn on the cob, and some baked beans.

Looking for more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Chicken Nuggets for 22 delicious recipes.

FAQs

How long can leftover air fryer chicken nuggets be stored?

Leftover air fryer chicken nuggets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours until they're solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or bag to be stored in the freezer.

What is the best way to reheat leftover air fryer chicken nuggets?

When reheating leftover chicken nuggets, it's best to use the air fryer again to maintain their crispy texture. Simply preheat the air fryer to 350F, arrange the chicken nuggets in a single layer in the basket, and cook for 5-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Can I use any other meat with this recipe?

You can absolutely branch out and make a variety of different kinds of nuggets in your air fryer. You can use ground beef, pork, or turkey. Additionally, you can make fish nuggets using small pieces of white fish like tilapia or cod, or make vegan nuggets using tofu.

How to make frozen chicken nuggets in the air fryer?

If you are in a hurry and want to make store-bought nuggets, check out my Air Fryer Dino Nuggets and follow the same instructions.

More Chicken Recipes

These air fryer chicken nuggets are a delicious way to make chicken when you are pressed for time. Here are some more excellent chicken dishes that you can try the next time you want to experiment with chicken in your kitchen.

• Instant Pot Pineapple Chicken
• Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
• Air Fryer Chicken Gizzards
• Instant Pot Butter Chicken