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This crispy air fryer chicken nugget recipe has completely changed my weeknight dinner routine. With minimal oil and a handful of simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch of golden nuggets that taste better than takeout and feel better too. And the best part? They’re ready in under 25 minutes and perfect with any dipping sauce you love.
I first made these on a lazy Sunday afternoon and now they’re my go to whenever I want something fast fun and homemade.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast about two thirds pound: Provides lean juicy meat with a tender texture and mild flavor
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavor of the chicken and seasons the breading
- All purpose flour: Helps the buttermilk stick to the chicken and adds a light base for breading
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that keeps the chicken juicy
- Plain breadcrumbs: Form the crispy outer shell and hold flavor well when seasoned
- Garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor of the coating with a warm garlicky note
- Smoked paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smoky warmth to the breading
- Cooking oil: Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up and brown evenly in the air fryer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breast into three quarter inch pieces using a sharp knife and cutting board. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly and yield about twenty to twenty four nuggets.
- Season and Flour:
- Sprinkle one quarter teaspoon of salt evenly over the chicken pieces. Add the flour directly on top and toss everything gently to coat the chicken evenly.
- Make the Seasoned Breadcrumbs:
- In a small bowl mix the breadcrumbs garlic powder smoked paprika and remaining salt. Stir in the cooking oil until the mixture looks like damp sand and the breadcrumbs are fully coated.
- Set Up the Dredging Station:
- Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl. Arrange the chicken buttermilk and breadcrumb mixture in a row to create a simple assembly line.
- Bread the Nuggets:
- Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk allowing excess to drip off then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly so the breadcrumbs adhere. Set each coated nugget aside on a clean plate.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Turn your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. This ensures a crispy golden crust.
- Cook the Nuggets:
- Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding and cook in batches if needed. Air fry for eight minutes flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cooked nuggets from the air fryer and let them rest for three to five minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
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I absolutely love how the smoked paprika gives the nuggets just enough depth to keep them interesting. My nephew devoured these during movie night and asked if they were from his favorite chicken place. I call that a win.
Storage Tips
Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best texture reheat them in the air fryer at three hundred seventy five degrees for two to three minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand combine one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for ten minutes before using. For a dairy free version you can also coat the chicken in plain unsweetened yogurt thinned with a bit of water.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these nuggets with classic sauces like honey mustard barbecue or ranch. For a full meal add sweet potato fries mac and cheese or a crisp salad on the side. They’re also great tucked into wraps with lettuce and sauce.
Cultural Context
Chicken nuggets have long been a fast food favorite but making them at home puts the control in your hands. This recipe cuts the grease without sacrificing crunch by relying on the air fryer. It’s a modern take on a classic that’s fast family friendly and fun to make together.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may yield juicier results but could require a slightly longer cooking time in the air fryer.
- → What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice (1 cup milk + 1 Tbsp acid) or use Greek yogurt thinned with water and a pinch of salt as an alternative.
- → How do I keep the breading crispy?
Preheat the air fryer, coat the nuggets evenly, and avoid overcrowding the basket. The oil in the breadcrumb mixture also helps with crisping.
- → Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?
Yes, bread them in advance and store in the fridge for a few hours before air frying. For longer storage, freeze and air fry directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.
- → How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness while keeping the inside juicy.
- → Which dipping sauces go best?
Popular choices include ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, and mayo ketchup. Sweet and sour or comeback sauce also pair well.