Every time I fire up my air fryer, I’m reminded of how it has transformed the way we enjoy our favorite comfort foods. You know what’s fantastic alongside these crispy air fryer chicken nuggets?
A big, fresh salad or a side of sweet potato fries. The crunchy texture of the nuggets pairs so well with the freshness of a garden salad or the satisfying sweetness of sweet potato fries. It’s a meal that’s perfect for both kids and adults, making it a surefire winner at family dinners.
Have you ever craved the juicy crunch of chicken nuggets but felt guilty about the oil and deep-frying? Well, I’m here to introduce you to a delightful twist on a classic that will put your cravings to rest.
Air fryer chicken nuggets deliver an incredible crunch without the excess grease. They’re simple, quick, and fun to make, and trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked.
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What are air fryer recipes chicken nuggets?
Air fryer recipes chicken nuggets are bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated in a flavorful breading and cooked in an air fryer until golden and crispy. This method clips the calories from traditional frying while keeping all the deliciousness. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and that satisfying crunch we all love. It’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for family meals or game day snacks.
The Ingredients
To create these mouth-watering nuggets, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup milk
– Optional: ½ teaspoon dried talian herbs (for an extra flavor boost)
– Olive oil cooking spray
Ingredients From : modernfarmhouseeats.com
How to make air fryer recipes chicken nuggets?
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation of these nuggets. The process is straightforward, with just a few easy steps to follow.
Step-by-step directions
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until everything is evenly distributed. If you’re using dried Italian herbs, feel free to toss them in at this stage. Set this mixture aside.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, crack open 2 large eggs and pour in ¼ cup of milk. Whisk these together until blended smoothly. This egg mixture will help the breadcrumb coating stick to the chicken, ensuring that crispy finish we’re all after.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Working with one piece of chicken at a time, dip it into the egg mixture. Ensure it’s fully coated, then use a fork to transfer it into the breading mixture. Gently toss it in the breadcrumbs, pressing down a bit to make sure the coating adheres well. If you like a thicker breading, simply dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then into the breadcrumbs again.
Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer
While you’re breading the chicken, it’s a great time to preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will get it nice and hot for cooking.
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. It’s important not to crowd the basket; each piece should have a little space around it for air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the nuggets in batches.
Step 6: Air Fry the Nuggets
Once the air fryer is loaded, spray the tops of the nuggets lightly with olive oil. Cook them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through for a uniform golden color and even cooking. When they’re crisp and cooked through, they’re ready to devour.
Notes
– Use Panko: Panko breadcrumbs create that extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match.
– Extra Spice: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level. Omit it for a milder flavor.
– Batch Cooking: If you’re making a large quantity, keep the cooked nuggets warm in an oven at low heat while you finish frying the rest.
– Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as curry powder or chili powder, to shake things up.
– For Crispiness: Always spray the nuggets lightly with cooking oil for that golden brown finish.
Storage Tips
After enjoying your air fryer chicken nuggets, if there are any leftovers, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in single layers in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness!
Nutrition Information
– Calories: 350
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Protein: 30g
Serving Suggestions
– With Dipping Sauces: Serve with homemade ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
– Make a Meal: Add these nuggets to a bed of mixed greens for a fun twist on a chicken salad.
– In Wraps: Load up a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and chicken nuggets for a quick wrap.
– Slider Style: Place a few nuggets on a mini bun with toppings for an easy slider option.
– Game Day Treat: Serve alongside chips and salsa for a festive gathering or watch party.
What other substitutes can I use in air fryer recipes chicken nuggets?
– Boneless Thighs: Instead of chicken breasts, use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
– Cauliflower Bites: For a vegetarian option, bread and air fry cauliflower florets for a delicious veggie nugget.
– Zucchini: Zucchini slices can also be breaded and cooked in the air fryer for a lighter choice.
– Tofu: Firm tofu, pressed and sliced, can be substituted and seasoned for a tasty vegan nugget.
– Bread Crumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs can replace panko for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken nuggets are the kind of dish that transforms the way you think about healthy eating. They bring joy to the dinner table and a bit of nostalgia back into your snack time. With easy prep, quick cooking, and endless possibilities for dipping and serving, this simple recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.
Next time you’re in the mood for something crispy, try whipping up a batch of these delightful nuggets, and prepare for a taste that might just have you saying goodbye to traditional fried nuggets for good!
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Air Fryer Recipes Chicken Nuggets – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
Have you ever craved the juicy crunch of chicken nuggets but felt guilty about the oil and deep-frying? Well, I’m here to introduce you to a delightful twist on a classic that will put your cravings to rest.
Ingredients
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried talian herbs (for an extra flavor boost)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Mixture
-
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until everything is evenly distributed. If you're using dried Italian herbs, feel free to toss them in at this stage. Set this mixture aside.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
-
In a separate bowl, crack open 2 large eggs and pour in ¼ cup of milk. Whisk these together until blended smoothly. This egg mixture will help the breadcrumb coating stick to the chicken, ensuring that crispy finish we’re all after.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
-
Working with one piece of chicken at a time, dip it into the egg mixture. Ensure it's fully coated, then use a fork to transfer it into the breading mixture. Gently toss it in the breadcrumbs, pressing down a bit to make sure the coating adheres well. If you like a thicker breading, simply dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then into the breadcrumbs again.
Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer
-
While you're breading the chicken, it's a great time to preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will get it nice and hot for cooking.
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer
-
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. It's important not to crowd the basket; each piece should have a little space around it for air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the nuggets in batches.
Step 6: Air Fry the Nuggets
-
Once the air fryer is loaded, spray the tops of the nuggets lightly with olive oil. Cook them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through for a uniform golden color and even cooking. When they’re crisp and cooked through, they’re ready to devour.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Trans Fat 0.02g
- Cholesterol 156mg52%
- Sodium 971mg41%
- Potassium 570mg17%
- Protein 32g64%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Panko: Panko breadcrumbs create that extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can't match.
- Extra Spice: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level. Omit it for a milder flavor.
- Batch Cooking: If you're making a large quantity, keep the cooked nuggets warm in an oven at low heat while you finish frying the rest.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as curry powder or chili powder, to shake things up.
- For Crispiness: Always spray the nuggets lightly with cooking oil for that golden brown finish.
