Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Hey there, nugget lovers!

If you’re craving something crispy, you’re in for a treat!

Today, I’m dishing out my favorite recipe for air fryer chicken nuggets.

They’re juicy, delicious, and way healthier than fried ones.

Plus, they cook up in no time!

Get ready to impress your taste buds! Let’s dive in!

air fryer chicken nuggets

Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution

Boneless, skinless chicken breast can be replaced with firm tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian option. Tofu should be pressed and cut into nugget-sized pieces, while cauliflower florets should be cut to similar sizes. Cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

Buttermilk can be substituted with a mixture of plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before using to achieve a similar tangy flavor and thickness.

Plain bread crumbs can be swapped with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative. Almond flour may require additional seasoning, while pork rinds will add extra saltiness, so adjust other seasonings accordingly. Use the same amount as you would bread crumbs, but monitor cooking time as these alternatives may brown faster.

Preparation Time 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time 16-20 minutes
Total Time 31-40 minutes
Level of Difficulty Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

  • Calories: 900-1000
  • Protein: 60-70 g
  • Fat: 50-60 g
  • Carbohydrates: 70-80 g

Ingredients

  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (approximately 2/3 lb.)
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt, separated
  • 1 tablespoon regular flour
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing a chicken breast on a cutting board and cut it into 3/4 inch pieces.

You should get approximately 20-24 chicken nuggets, depending on the size of your chicken breast.

Once cut, sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt evenly over the chicken pieces.

Next, sprinkle flour over the chicken and toss to ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of salt.

Mix the seasonings thoroughly into the breadcrumbs.

Add the cooking oil to the breadcrumb mixture and stir until the oil is evenly distributed, giving the breadcrumbs a damp sand-like texture.

Step 3: Set Up Coating Station

In another small bowl, add ½ cup of buttermilk.

Align the chicken pieces, buttermilk, and breadcrumb mixture in your workspace.

Use tongs or your hands to coat each chicken nugget piece first by dipping it in the buttermilk, then transferring it to the breadcrumbs.

Ensure the chicken pieces are fully and evenly coated with the breadcrumbs, then set them aside.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Nuggets

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.

Once preheated, place the chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding.

If necessary, cook the chicken nuggets in two batches.

Air fry for 8 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Step 5: Let Cool and Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool for 3-5 minutes.

Serve the nuggets warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

air fryer chicken nuggets
air fryer chicken nuggets

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