Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these mouthwatering air fried chicken nuggets that are not just healthier than traditional deep-fried versions, but also packed with incredible flavor! Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown nugget that's tender on the inside and seasoned to perfection - all without the excess oil and guilt. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick meal or a food lover craving a delicious treat, these homemade nuggets will become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by cutting boneless chicken breast into uniform bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are approximately 1-
- 5 inches in size for even cooking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg until well blended and create a standard breading station with the beaten egg and seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
- Dip each chicken piece first into the beaten egg, ensuring complete coverage, then roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere firmly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 3-4 minutes to ensure proper initial heating.
- Arrange the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece to allow hot air circulation.
- Cook the nuggets in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the nuggets halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Check the internal temperature of the largest nugget with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove nuggets from the air fryer and let them rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the coating to set and juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips
- Uniformity is Key: Cut chicken pieces into similar sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Pat Dry First: Before breading, pat chicken pieces with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
- Don't Overcrowd: Always arrange nuggets in a single layer with some space between them for optimal air circulation and crispiness.
- Shake or Flip: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or flip nuggets to guarantee even browning on all sides.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize your breadcrumb mixture with different herbs and spices like dried oregano, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
- Serve Immediately: Nuggets are best enjoyed hot and fresh right out of the air fryer for maximum crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
