Description
Deliciously crispy and tender chicken nuggets made in the air fryer, perfect for a healthier take on a fast-food favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil spray
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange chicken nuggets in a single layer.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize and flavor the meat.
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.