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Homemade Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Nuggets photo

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Nuggets

These Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Nuggets are a guilt-free delight! Enjoy a crunchy, golden coating without the excess oil!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Nuggets:
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Dipping Sauces:
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup yellow mustard
  • ½ cup Dijon mustard

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking Spray or Brush

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and get that crispy coating all around.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  3. In another bowl, pour the melted unsalted butter over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly. Then, take each piece and dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure the coating adheres well.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps create that crispy crust we all love.
  5. Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If desired, mist them with olive oil cooking spray for an extra crunch. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and cooked through.
  6. While the nuggets are cooking, mix together the honey, yellow mustard, and Dijon mustard in small bowls. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking.
  7. Once your Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Nuggets are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your choice of dipping sauces and enjoy every crispy bite!

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
  • Use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Swap out the butter for coconut oil for a different flavor profile.