Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets: Fresh And Quick

Chicken nuggets are a universally loved food, but can you make fresh chicken nuggets in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Making chicken nuggets in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy this classic dish. With just a few simple ingredients and spices, you can create crispy, tender, and juicy chicken nuggets that both kids and adults will love.

The process is simple: cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, coat them in a flour and egg mixture, and then dredge them in seasoned breadcrumbs. Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer, and cook at around 400°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result is perfectly cooked, crispy chicken nuggets that are healthier than their deep-fried counterparts.

So, if you're looking for a fun and convenient way to make chicken nuggets, give the air fryer a try! It's a great option for a quick snack, dinner, or even as an appetizer.

How long to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer

Making chicken nuggets in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken nuggets and the temperature you set your air fryer to. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make chicken nuggets in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, cut your chicken into nugget-sized pieces. You can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs, but make sure they are boneless and skinless. Some recipes suggest cutting the chicken into 1-inch pieces, while others suggest slightly larger sizes of 2-3 inches.

Step 2: Create the Breading

In one bowl, mix together flour and a small amount of your chosen spices. In a separate bowl, prepare an egg and milk mixture by whisking together eggs and milk. You can also add spices to this mixture. In a third bowl, prepare the breading by mixing together breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices. You can use a food processor to create a finer texture for the breading if you wish.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each piece of chicken and dip it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it in the breading. Press the chicken firmly into the breading to ensure it sticks. Repeat this process for each piece of chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Nuggets

Generously grease your air fryer basket and place the chicken nuggets inside in a single layer. Make sure the nuggets are not overlapping and are spaced out evenly. Spray the tops of the nuggets with oil and set your air fryer to the desired temperature.

Step 5: Cooking Time

The cooking time will depend on the temperature of your air fryer and the size of your chicken nuggets. For example, one source suggests cooking chicken nuggets in an air fryer set to 400°F for 8-15 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through. Another source suggests cooking at 375°F for 2-3 minutes for leftover chicken nuggets. It is important to ensure the chicken is cooked through. One way to check this is to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.

Tips

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken nuggets in batches if necessary.
• You can freeze leftover chicken nuggets and reheat them in the air fryer for a quick and easy meal.
• You can also bake chicken nuggets in the oven if you don't have an air fryer. Simply place the nuggets on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through.

How to make chicken nuggets crispy in an air fryer

Making chicken nuggets crispy in an air fryer is easy! Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, cut boneless chicken breasts into 1-inch or nugget-sized pieces. You can also use chicken thighs, tenderloins, or tenders if you prefer. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before cutting, to ensure the breading sticks.

Step 2: Create the Breading Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the dry ingredients for the breading. This typically includes panko breadcrumbs, flour, and a blend of spices such as salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. You can also add grated parmesan cheese to enhance the flavour and crispiness. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. You can substitute milk with water, pickle juice, or a milk alternative if needed. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture until coated. Then, use a fork to transfer the chicken to the breading mixture and toss until coated. For an even thicker breading, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then toss again in the breading. Make sure to press the breading onto the chicken to help it adhere well.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Nuggets

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the breaded chicken nuggets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Spray the tops of the nuggets with olive oil or cooking spray.

Cook the chicken nuggets for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The nuggets are ready when they are golden brown and crispy. You can also use a meat thermometer to check for doneness - the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Tips for Crispy Chicken Nuggets:

• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
• Spray the chicken nuggets with olive oil or cooking spray before cooking to help achieve a crispy breading.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave a bit of space around each nugget to allow hot air to circulate, which will aid in crispiness.
• Double-dredge the chicken nuggets by dipping them into the egg mixture and then the breading mixture twice for an extra thick and crispy coating.

What temperature to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer

The optimal temperature to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer is 200°C/400°F.

Chicken nuggets are a great, healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken nuggets. They are easy to make and require very little oil. You can use chicken breasts, tenderloins, or thighs, and coat them in a variety of breading options.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into nugget-sized pieces. You can use chicken breasts, tenderloins, or thighs. If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips and then into nugget-sized pieces.

Step 2: Create the Breading

In one bowl, mix together the dry ingredients for the breading. This can include breadcrumbs (regular or panko), flour, and spices such as salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and crispiness. In a separate bowl, prepare a wet mixture of beaten eggs and milk (or water/pickle juice/milk alternative).

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip the chicken pieces into the wet mixture, then coat them in the dry breading mixture. You can double-dip the chicken for a thicker coating. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated and that the breading adheres well.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Nuggets

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C/400°F. Place the chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking oil.

Cook the chicken nuggets for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The nuggets are done when they are golden brown and crispy. You can also use a meat thermometer to check if they have reached an internal temperature of 74°C/165°F.

Tips:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the nuggets in batches if needed.
• For gluten-free nuggets, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• You can freeze cooked and cooled chicken nuggets for up to 3 months and reheat them in the air fryer.
• To reheat, cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

Enjoy your homemade chicken nuggets!

How to reheat chicken nuggets in an air fryer

Reheating chicken nuggets in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste and texture. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F (180°C). You can do this by running the air fryer for around 5 minutes at this temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Nuggets

Place your chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping, as this will ensure that they heat through evenly and get crispy. You can spray a tiny bit of oil on the nuggets before reheating, but this is not necessary.

Step 3: Reheat the Chicken Nuggets

Air fry your chicken nuggets for 3-5 minutes at 350-400°F (180°C). Check that they are heated through and add more time if needed. You can turn the nuggets over after a minute or two to ensure even cooking.

Tips:

• Only reheat as many nuggets as you will eat, as reheating the same food multiple times is not recommended.
• Always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
• The exact cook time will depend on your air fryer model and the size of your nuggets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• If you want to add seasoning, do so after applying the oil and before air frying.

How to make chicken nuggets from scratch

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

Optional ingredients to make your own buttermilk

• 1 cup of milk
• 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice

Optional spices

• Cayenne pepper
• Black pepper
• Oregano
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder

Kitchen equipment

• Air fryer
• 3 large bowls
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Method

• Cut the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces.
• In a large bowl, mix together the panko, parmesan, salt, and oil.
• In a second bowl, add the flour.
• In a third bowl, add the beaten eggs.
• Dip the chicken pieces in the flour, shaking off any excess.
• Dip the floured chicken into the egg, then coat with the panko mixture, pressing firmly so that the panko sticks to the chicken.
• Repeat this process until all the chicken is coated.
• Grease the air fryer basket generously.
• Place the chicken nuggets into the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
• Spray the tops of the chicken nuggets with oil.
• Air fry the chicken nuggets for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Check the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature has reached 74°C/165°F.

Tips

• You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk.
• You can switch up the spices to add more flavour to your nuggets. Cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder all work well.
• Make sure your nuggets are all the same size so they cook evenly.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave a bit of space around each nugget so that they cook evenly and get crispy.
• You can freeze any leftover chicken nuggets and enjoy them another time!

Frequently asked questions