Description
These homemade crispy chicken nuggets are perfectly seasoned and golden brown, offering a satisfying crunch that's far better than takeout.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)
Instructions
Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: In three separate bowls, set up your breading stations:
- Bowl 1: Place the flour mixed with salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Coat each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Arrange the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil. Cook the nuggets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Step 5: Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes
For extra spice, add a pinch more cayenne pepper to the breading mixture. These nuggets are fantastic served with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 nuggets
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg