Air Fryer Dino Nuggets: Quick, Crispy Treats

Air fryer dino nuggets are a quick and easy meal or snack that can be made in under 10 minutes. They are perfect for picky eaters and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces and sides. The cooking process is simple: place the frozen nuggets in the air fryer, making sure they are not overlapping, and cook for around 8-10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping them halfway through.

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature to cook dino nuggets in an air fryer is 400 degrees Fahrenheit/200 degrees Celsius. The cooking time can vary between 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness. For extra crispy dino nuggets, consider adding an extra minute to the cooking time. It is important to ensure proper air circulation by arranging the nuggets in a single layer and flipping them halfway through the cooking process.

When using an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the appliance for about 4 to 5 minutes. However, some air fryers have a built-in preheat functionality, so it is important to refer to the specific model's instructions. The cooking time may also vary depending on the brand and model of the air fryer, so adjustments may be necessary.

For best results, it is advisable not to thaw the dino nuggets before placing them in the air fryer. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Shaking the basket or turning the nuggets halfway through the cooking process is recommended.

When reheating dino nuggets, set the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through.

Preheat the air fryer?

Preheating your air fryer is not always necessary when cooking dino nuggets. Some sources say that you can skip preheating and simply add the nuggets straight to the basket. However, other sources recommend preheating your air fryer to 400°F for about 4 to 5 minutes if your air fryer doesn't have a built-in preheat functionality.

If your air fryer has a built-in preheat functionality, you don't need to worry about preheating manually. Some air fryers with built-in preheat functionality, such as the Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Cosori, will automatically preheat before starting to count down the cooking time.

It's important to note that the cooking time for dino nuggets may vary depending on the brand of nuggets and the model of your air fryer. Therefore, it's recommended to monitor the nuggets closely during the cooking process and adjust the timing as needed.

Oil spray

Using an oil spray on your air fryer basket is a good idea if you want to help your dino nuggets crisp up. You don't need a lot, just a light spritz or two of oil will do.

It's best to use a mister with your oil, rather than an aerosol non-stick spray. Aerosol sprays can rust your air fryer basket over time.

If you don't have a mister, you can also use a piece of parchment paper under the nuggets for easy clean-up.

Make sure to spritz the nuggets themselves with oil spray as well, to ensure they crisp up nicely.

Arranging the Nuggets

When arranging your dino nuggets in the basket, make sure they don't touch each other or the sides of the basket. Leaving a small gap between each nugget allows the hot air to flow around each piece and crisp up the breading.

Air Frying the Nuggets

Air fry your dino nuggets for 8-10 minutes at 400°F. For best results, flip the nuggets after 4 minutes.

If you want your nuggets to be extra crispy, add an extra minute to the cooking time.

Dipping Sauces

Dino nuggets go well with a variety of dipping sauces, including:

• BBQ sauce
• Honey mustard
• Ranch dressing
• Hot sauce

How to position the nuggets

To ensure your dino nuggets cook evenly and achieve the desired crispiness, it's important to position them correctly in the air fryer basket. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

Leave Space Around the Nuggets:

First, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leave some space between each nugget to allow for proper air circulation. This helps ensure that hot air can flow between the nuggets, crisping up the breading. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may be able to fit around 14-16 nuggets in a single layer.

Arrange in a Single Layer:

Place the nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures that each nugget has direct exposure to the hot air, promoting even cooking and browning. Avoid stacking or overlapping the nuggets, as this can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the desired crispiness.

Avoid Touching the Sides:

When positioning the nuggets, try to avoid letting them touch the sides of the basket. Leaving a small gap between the nuggets and the sides of the basket improves air circulation and helps achieve more uniform cooking.

Flip or Shake Halfway Through:

To ensure even cooking and browning on all sides, it's important to flip the nuggets halfway through the cooking process. If your air fryer basket has a shaking or rotating function, you can simply shake the basket to turn the nuggets over. Otherwise, use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip each nugget.

Experiment with Placement:

Depending on your air fryer model and the number of nuggets you're cooking, you may need to experiment with placement. If you're cooking a large batch, you can add multiple layers of nuggets, but be mindful of maintaining adequate air circulation. You may need to adjust the cooking time or flip the nuggets more than once to ensure even cooking.

By following these positioning tips, you'll be well on your way to achieving perfectly cooked and crispy dino nuggets in your air fryer!

Dipping sauces

Honey Mustard Sauce

A classic combination of sweet and tangy, honey mustard sauce is a perfect pairing for crispy dino nuggets. The sweetness of honey paired with the sharpness of mustard creates a flavour profile that is both kid-approved and satisfying for adults.

BBQ Sauce

Add a little smoky flavour to your nuggets with BBQ sauce. Whether you prefer a sweet and sticky variety or a more tangy option, BBQ sauce is a versatile choice that can be tailored to your taste preferences.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is a crowd-pleaser and a versatile dipping sauce. Its creamy texture and savoury flavour make it a great option for those who want a milder dipping experience.

Ketchup

A traditional favourite, ketchup is a staple dipping sauce for a reason. Its sweet and tangy flavour complements the crispy exterior and tender interior of air-fried dino nuggets.

Buffalo Sauce

For those who enjoy a little spice, buffalo sauce is an excellent choice. It adds a kick to your nuggets and is perfect for those who like their food on the spicier side.

Honey Sriracha Sauce

Honey Sriracha sauce offers a sweet and spicy flavour combination that is hard to resist. It adds a unique twist to your dino nuggets, providing a blend of sweetness and heat that is sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Experiment with different sauces, and don't be afraid to offer a variety of options to suit different taste preferences. Dipping sauces can elevate the humble dino nugget into a fun and flavourful meal for both kids and adults alike!

Frequently asked questions