Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Are you on the lookout for a delicious snack or appetizer that packs a flavorful punch without all the guilt of frying? Look no further! These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets are everything you’ve been craving. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, these nuggets are sure to satisfy your taste buds while being ready in no time. Perfect for game day, a party, or a cozy night in, this recipe is as versatile as it is tasty. Let’s dive in!
Why It’s My Go-To
What makes this recipe a staple in my kitchen? It’s simple. The combination of tender chicken, a crispy coating, and the irresistible kick of buffalo sauce makes these nuggets a crowd-pleaser. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means you can enjoy all that crunch without the excess oil. It’s a win-win! Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these nuggets are not just easy to make, but they also deliver on flavor, making them my go-to snack.
What to Buy
To whip up these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Make sure to have everything on hand before starting to make the process smooth and enjoyable!
Equipment Breakdown
Before we get cooking, here’s a quick rundown of the equipment you’ll need:
- Air Fryer: The star of the show! This appliance will give you that crispy exterior.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your coatings and marinades.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to the perfect nuggets.
- Cooking Spray: To ensure the nuggets don’t stick to the air fryer basket.
- Cooking Tongs: For flipping and removing the nuggets without making a mess.
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets: From Prep to Plate
Making these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy nuggets:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and the egg. Whisk them together until well blended. This mixture will help the coating stick to the chicken.
Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Stations
In two separate bowls, add the all-purpose flour mixed with garlic powder in one bowl, and the cornstarch in another. This two-step coating process will give your nuggets that extra crunch.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the cornstarch, pressing lightly to adhere. Repeat this process for all chicken pieces.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer.
Step 6: Cook the Nuggets
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly, giving you crispy nuggets.
Step 7: Air Fry
Cook the chicken nuggets for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. They should be golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the nuggets are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce until well combined.
Step 9: Toss and Serve
Once the nuggets are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Toss gently to coat each nugget thoroughly. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Seasonal Adaptations
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets can easily be adapted for different tastes and occasions. Here are a few seasonal variations:
- Spicy Fall Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a warming spice.
- Summer BBQ: Mix in some BBQ sauce with the buffalo sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Football Season: Serve with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for the ultimate game day experience.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
- For extra crispy nuggets, consider letting them rest for 5 minutes after coating before air frying.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce based on your heat preference.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- These nuggets are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later use if needed.
How to Store & Reheat
To store your leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use the oven method at 375°F (190°C) for around 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Your Top Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a slightly richer flavor and remain juicy, making them a great alternative.
Is it necessary to use cornstarch?
While cornstarch helps achieve a crispier coating, you can omit it if you prefer. Just ensure the chicken is well coated in flour.
Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and coating ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just air fry them when you’re ready to enjoy.
What dipping sauces pair well with these nuggets?
Classic choices include blue cheese or ranch dressing. You can also try honey mustard or a creamy avocado dip for a fresh twist!
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Before You Go
The next time you’re craving something crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious, whip up a batch of these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether it’s a movie night, game day, or just a Tuesday, these nuggets will definitely elevate your snacking game. So grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy a plate of golden deliciousness that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting your chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and the egg. Whisk them together until well blended.
- In two separate bowls, add the all-purpose flour mixed with garlic powder in one bowl, and the cornstarch in another.
- Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it in the cornstarch.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Cook the chicken nuggets for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
- While the nuggets are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat and stir in the Frank's Red Hot Sauce.
- Once the nuggets are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Toss gently to coat.
Notes
- For extra crispy nuggets, let them rest for 5 minutes after coating before air frying.
- Adjust the amount of Frank's Red Hot Sauce based on your heat preference.
- If you don't have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar with a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
