Description
These Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Nuggets are a healthier alternative to deep-fried nuggets, made with juicy chicken pieces coated in a flavorful crispy breading.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk, cover, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket.
- Spray the tops of the chicken nuggets lightly with olive oil spray.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken by dipping it back into buttermilk and breadcrumbs.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 5-6 nuggets)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg