Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets (Printable Version)
Crispy, juicy nuggets made fast in the air fryer—perfect for dipping, sharing, and enjoying any night of the week.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Chicken Nuggets
01 -
1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2/3 lb.)
02 -
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
03 -
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
04 -
1/2 cup buttermilk
05 -
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
06 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 -
2 tablespoons cooking oil
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
On a cutting board, slice the chicken breast into 3/4 inch pieces. You should get approximately 20-24 nuggets.
02 -
Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of flour over the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
03 -
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add cooking oil and stir until mixture resembles damp sand.
04 -
In a separate bowl, add buttermilk. Arrange chicken, buttermilk, and breadcrumb mixture in a row for coating.
05 -
Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then coat evenly with breadcrumb mixture. Set aside on a plate.
06 -
Preheat air fryer to 400°F to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
07 -
Place nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
08 -
Remove nuggets and let cool for 3–5 minutes. Serve with your preferred dipping sauce.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Using oil in the breadcrumb mixture enhances crispiness and texture.
02 -
Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and a golden finish.