Air-Fryer Chicken Nuggets: The Perfect Timing

Chicken nuggets are a universal food that both adults and kids adore. They can be made in an air fryer in under 20 minutes with almost no oil. The air fryer creates a perfect balance of a crispy coating without drying out the chicken. The texture is extra juicy in the middle, which is what we all want!

The time it takes to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer depends on the type of chicken nuggets being cooked. Frozen chicken nuggets will take 8-12 minutes in the air fryer, while homemade chicken nuggets will take 12-15 minutes. It is important to ensure that the chicken nuggets are not overlapping in the air fryer and are in a single layer so that they cook evenly.

Chicken breast or thigh?

Chicken nuggets can be made with either chicken breast or chicken thigh. There are pros and cons to both.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is leaner, with less fat content than chicken thigh. This means that it can dry out more quickly and become mealy in texture if overcooked. However, it is a good choice for those who prefer a lower-fat option. Chicken breast is also more readily available in supermarkets and is often cheaper than chicken thigh.

Chicken Thigh

Chicken thigh has a higher fat content, which makes it juicier and more flavourful. It also handles being overcooked better than chicken breast. Chicken thigh is often bone-in, which can be a drawback for those who don't like to eat meat off the bone. It can also be more expensive and less readily available than chicken breast.

A Combination of Both

Some people prefer to use a combination of chicken breast and chicken thigh for their nuggets. This can provide a good balance of flavour and texture.

The choice between chicken breast and thigh for chicken nuggets ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both options have their pros and cons, and some people choose to use a combination of both.

Air Frying Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to air frying chicken nuggets, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to around 400°F. Place the nuggets in a single layer in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd it. Air fry for around 8 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through.

Reheating Chicken Nuggets

To reheat chicken nuggets in an air fryer, preheat the appliance to 375°F. Place the nuggets in a single layer in the basket and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

How to make chicken nuggets crispy

To make chicken nuggets crispy in an air fryer, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• Chicken breasts
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Oil
• Flour
• Eggs
• Spices (optional)

Method:

• Cut the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces. Try to make the pieces a similar size so they cook evenly.
• Make the coating by mixing the panko, parmesan, salt, and oil in a large bowl.
• In separate bowls, add the flour to one and the beaten eggs to another.
• Dip the chicken pieces first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then in the egg, and finally in the panko mixture. Press the panko onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.
• Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in a greased air fryer basket. Spray the tops of the nuggets with oil.
• Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. You can flip the nuggets halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and crispness.
• Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips for Extra Crispiness:

• Preheat the air fryer: This will help to ensure the chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Don't overcrowd the basket: Space out the nuggets in a single layer so the hot air can circulate. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use a meat thermometer: Check that the internal temperature of the nuggets reaches 74°C/165°F to guarantee they are fully cooked.
• Make the nuggets the same size: This will ensure they cook evenly.
• Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko provides a superior crunch and flavour compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Don't overlap the nuggets: Stacking the nuggets will cause them to stick together and become mushy, affecting their crispness.
• Flip the nuggets: Take out the basket halfway through cooking, shake it, and flip the nuggets to ensure even cooking and crispness.
• Use less oil: Contrary to what you might expect, using less oil will result in crispier nuggets.

Storing and Reheating:

• To store: Keep leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To reheat: Place the nuggets back in the air fryer at 180°C/350°F for 2-3 minutes, or in a preheated oven. Avoid using the microwave, as this will make the chicken lose its crispiness.
• To freeze: Let the nuggets cool, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Should you defrost chicken nuggets before air frying?

You should not defrost chicken nuggets before air frying. They should be cooked directly from frozen for the best results.

How long to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer

The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the nuggets, as well as whether they are fresh or frozen. Smaller, fresh nuggets can cook in as little as 12 minutes at 400°F, while thicker ones may take up to 15 minutes. Fresh, homemade chicken nuggets will typically cook for between 12 and 15 minutes at 400°F, flipping them halfway through.

Frozen nuggets will take less time, usually around 8 to 12 minutes at 375°F, without needing to be flipped. Check your nuggets at the 8-minute mark and add a few minutes if you want them extra crispy, but do not cook for more than 12 minutes in total.

How to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to at least 375°F. When the air fryer is heated, add the frozen chicken nuggets in a single layer into the basket. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, removing and shaking the basket once halfway through. Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and serve with your favourite sauce.

Storing and reheating chicken nuggets

Leftover chicken nuggets can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them up in a preheated oven at 325°F for 3 to 5 minutes or until warmed to your liking.

How long to reheat chicken nuggets in an air fryer

Reheating chicken nuggets in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get them tasting crispy and juicy again. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to reheat chicken nuggets in an air fryer:

The amount of time it takes to reheat chicken nuggets in an air fryer depends on whether they are frozen or not. If the nuggets are frozen, set the air fryer temperature to 400°F / 200°C and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to flip the nuggets over halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

If the chicken nuggets are cold but not frozen, reheat them in the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes at 350°F / 180°C. Again, make sure to flip them over halfway through.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reheat Chicken Nuggets in an Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F / 180°C.
• Place the chicken nuggets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket or tray. Make sure there is space between the nuggets to allow for even cooking.
• Lightly spray the nuggets with a small amount of oil to help them crisp up.
• Reheat for 3 to 5 minutes for cold nuggets, or 10 to 12 minutes for frozen nuggets. Always check that they are heated through before serving.
• Turn the nuggets over halfway through the cooking time.

Tips for Reheating Chicken Nuggets in an Air Fryer

• Always reheat chicken nuggets to an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C to ensure they are safe to consume.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for proper heat circulation.
• Do not reheat the same nuggets multiple times.
• Do not store reheated chicken nuggets. Only reheat the amount you need and consume them immediately.

How to make chicken nuggets spicy

How to Make Spicy Chicken Nuggets in an Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 1-2 boneless, skinless 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
• Cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, paprika, onion powder, and/or garlic powder

Method

• Cut the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces.
• In a large bowl, mix together the panko, parmesan, salt, and olive oil.
• In a second bowl, add the flour.
• In a third bowl, add the beaten eggs.
• Dip each chicken piece into the flour, shaking off any excess.
• Next, dip the chicken into the egg, then coat with the panko mixture, pressing firmly so that it sticks.
• Repeat this process until all the chicken is coated.
• Generously grease the air fryer basket and add the chicken nuggets in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping.
• Spray the tops of the nuggets with oil.
• Air fry the chicken nuggets for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. You can also check that they are cooked through by using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F.

Tips

• You can make the nuggets spicier by adding cayenne pepper to the flour or the panko mixture.
• Make sure the nuggets are all roughly the same size so that they cook evenly.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook the nuggets in batches if necessary.
• If your nuggets are overlapping in the air fryer, try flipping them halfway through cooking so that all sides get crispy.

Frequently asked questions