These homemade chicken nuggets are far superior to store-bought frozen versions. Using the air fryer means you get the crispy texture you crave without deep frying. They’re ready in under 30 minutes, use simple pantry ingredients, and are easily customizable to your flavor preferences. Plus, they freeze well for meal prep or future cravings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs eggs all-purpose flour panko breadcrumbs garlic powder paprika salt black pepper cooking spray or oil (for air fryer basket)
Directions
Cut chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
In one bowl, beat the eggs. In a second bowl, place the flour. In a third bowl, combine panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each chicken piece first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer, not overcrowding.
Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Total time: 27 minutes
Variations
Spicy Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture or spices.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Nuggets: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mix.
Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
Buttermilk Soak: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for extra tenderness before breading.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes or until hot and crispy. To freeze, place cooled nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are slightly juicier and work great in this recipe.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Some models recommend preheating. If yours does, preheat to 400°F for about 3 minutes.
Can I freeze these nuggets?
Yes, they freeze well both before and after cooking. Reheat in the air fryer straight from frozen.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and avoid overcrowding the basket so air circulates well.
Are these healthier than fried nuggets?
Yes, they use significantly less oil and are made from fresh, whole ingredients.
Can I bake these instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
What sauces go well with these nuggets?
Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, ketchup, or spicy mayo are all great options.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, there’s no dairy in the base recipe unless you add cheese or buttermilk.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Pat the chicken dry before breading and press the coating onto each piece firmly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches so the air fryer isn’t overcrowded.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken nuggets are a quick, crispy, and healthier take on a classic favorite. With minimal oil and maximum crunch, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or satisfying snack cravings. Easy to customize and sure to please any crowd, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Air fryer chicken nuggets are a healthier, crispy alternative to traditional fried nuggets. Made with real chicken and minimal oil, they’re golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:27 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or oil (for greasing air fryer basket)
Instructions
Cut the chicken into bite-sized nugget pieces.
In a bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, add the flour. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
Place the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.Add Parmesan, herbs, or spices to the breadcrumb mix for variety.Freeze cooked or uncooked nuggets for future meals.Thighs make juicier nuggets; breasts offer leaner results.
