How to Make Chicken Nuggets in Air Fryer
Servings: chicken nuggets
If your kids are obsessed with chicken nuggets, learn how to make chicken nuggets in the air fryer! With a few simple ingredients, you can make your own ground chicken nuggets that cook in just a few minutes in the air fryer! They’re perfect for those busy weeknights, and you can even make them in advance for a quick, healthy meal any night of the week!
Ingredients
For chicken nuggets
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 slice of bread (I used whole wheat)
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg whisked
For breading mixture
- 3/4 cup regular or panko bread crumbs (I used whole-wheat)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add the bread and pour the milk on top. Let it absorb for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper and paprika and combine with your hands. This is called a panade and helps to keep the chicken nuggets juicy.
- Next, add the ground chicken and parmesan cheese to the bowl. Knead the bread, spices and parmesan into the ground chicken. Mix until just combined; don't overmix.
- Form mixture into small nuggets (about a tablespoon each) and set aside on a large plate or baking sheet.
- Combine the breading mix in a shallow bowl and set aside.
- Brush each side of the nuggets with the whisked egg. Transfer them to the breading mixture and generously coat each one until completely covered. Place back on the baking sheet or plate.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F.
- Place chicken nuggets in air fryer, leaving space between each one for the hot air to circulate. For a crunchier texture, lightly spray the nuggets with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Cook for 8-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- This recipe was tested in the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of air fryer you use.
- If you don’t have ground chicken on hand, you can also make your own ground chicken by grinding up cubed chicken breasts in a food processor. You’ll need about 2 small chicken breasts for a pound of ground chicken.
- If making these chicken nuggets for babies, it’s recommended that you leave out the salt for baby’s portion to minimize sodium intake.
Nutrition
Calories: 64kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 148mg | Potassium: 134mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 62IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg
