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Crisp air fryer chicken nuggets served on a plate

Crisp Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

A healthier take on a childhood favorite, these air-fried chicken nuggets are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Nuggets
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • as needed Cooking spray

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In one bowl, mix flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
  4. In a third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shake off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Cooking
  1. Place the coated chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray lightly with cooking spray.
  2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Notes

Serve with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. For a fun twist, serve alongside a salad or vegetable sticks. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.