Air-Fryer Chicken Nuggets: Healthy, Quick, And Crispy!

Chicken nuggets are a universally loved food, but they are often deep-fried and unhealthy. Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep frying, as they cook with little to no oil. Air-fried chicken nuggets are a quick, easy, and healthy meal for both kids and adults. They are also versatile and can be made gluten-free or with different seasonings to suit different tastes.

Choosing your chicken

When selecting your chicken, look for pieces with a good amount of meat and minimal fat. You will also want to ensure that the chicken is cut into evenly sized bite-sized pieces or nuggets. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and completely. Aim for a nugget size of around 1-inch or 3/4-inch.

Before coating the chicken, trim any excess fat and season the meat with salt and pepper, or other spices of your choice. You can also marinate the chicken beforehand for added flavour.

Once you have selected and prepared your chicken, you can proceed with the coating and cooking process as outlined in the full recipe.

Preparing the coating

The coating is a key part of making healthy chicken nuggets in an air fryer, as it gives the nuggets their crispy texture and delicious flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing the coating:

Firstly, prepare your ingredients. You will need flour, breadcrumbs (regular or panko), olive oil or cooking oil, and seasonings of your choice. Common seasoning choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, and dried parsley. You can also add Parmesan cheese to the coating for an extra nutty, umami flavour.

Next, combine the flour with your chosen seasonings in a bowl. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the flavours are evenly distributed. You can also add a small amount of oil to the flour mixture at this stage if you wish.

If using Parmesan cheese, combine it with the breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Mix them together well. You can also add seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavour.

Some recipes suggest using beaten eggs as a binding agent to help the coating stick to the chicken. If you wish to include eggs, prepare them in a separate bowl and set aside.

Now you are ready to start coating the chicken! Begin by dipping the chicken pieces in oil, then coat them in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated before moving on to the next step.

After coating the chicken in flour, dip the pieces in the beaten egg (if using), and then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly so that they stick and form an even coating.

Place the coated chicken nuggets on a plate or tray while you prepare the air fryer. You can also store them in the fridge at this stage if you are not planning to cook them immediately.

Finally, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature (usually around 400°F) before placing the nuggets inside. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken nuggets in a single layer, leaving space between each nugget to allow for even cooking.

Now your chicken nuggets are coated and ready to be cooked!

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for air fryer chicken nuggets vary depending on the recipe and the type of air fryer being used. However, the general cooking temperature is between 375°F and 400°F, and the cooking time is around 8 to 15 minutes.

• One source recommends cooking the nuggets at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• Another source suggests cooking at 400°F for a total of 16 minutes, with the following breakdown: cook for 5 minutes, flip the nuggets, spray again with cooking spray, and finish cooking for 2 to 3 minutes or until cooked through.
• A third source advises cooking the nuggets at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• Yet another source recommends cooking at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
• One source mentions that the cooking time will depend on the specific air fryer being used and suggests checking the instructions for the particular air fryer model.
• Additionally, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on whether the nuggets are fresh or frozen. Frozen nuggets may require a few minutes longer to cook.

Dipping sauces

Chicken nuggets are a versatile food, and the dipping sauces that accompany them should be equally varied. While classic dips like ketchup and ranch are always tasty, it's fun to switch things up with creative sauces. Here are some ideas for healthy dipping sauces to accompany your air-fried chicken nuggets:

Healthy Ranch Dipping Sauce

This sauce is a great option if you're looking for something creamy and refreshing. It's made with Greek yogurt or sour cream, milk, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and fresh dill. The apple cider vinegar and fresh dill give it a tangy and herbal kick, while the garlic and onion powders add a savoury punch.

Honey Mustard Sauce

A classic for a reason, honey mustard sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy. It's easy to make and can be customised to your taste. Simply mix together honey, yellow mustard, dijon mustard, and a touch of mayonnaise for a creamy texture. You can also add spices like garlic, black pepper, paprika, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Barbecue Sauce

A smoky barbecue sauce is a great way to add some depth of flavour to your nuggets. You can use a store-bought variety or make your own by mixing ketchup, vinegar, sweetener, and spices. It's a versatile sauce that can be adjusted to your preferred level of sweetness and spiciness.

Garlic Parmesan Dip

If you're craving something savoury and cheesy, a garlic parmesan dip is a perfect choice. Simply mix together minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes for a punch of flavour. The garlic provides a sharp tang, while the parmesan adds a nutty, umami note.

Spicy Avocado Ranch Dip

For those who like their dips creamy with a kick of spice, this avocado ranch dip is a delicious option. Mix together some ranch dressing with avocado and a dash of your favourite hot sauce. The avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats, while the hot sauce gives it a nice kick.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavours to find your perfect dipping sauce!

Reheating and storing

If you have any leftover chicken nuggets, the best way to reheat them and maintain their texture and flavour is to use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F to 380°F, place the nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven, but avoid using a microwave as the chicken will lose its crispiness.

To store your chicken nuggets, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, let the nuggets cool, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat frozen nuggets, place them in a preheated air fryer basket at 400°F and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently asked questions