Nuggets in air fryer

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PRESENTATION

If you’re craving that fun, casual street food vibe right at home, these air fryer chicken nuggets are seriously the way to go—without all the guilt. Forget the deep fryer and fast food. Honestly, these crispy, golden bites come together with just a toss in some spices and a quick pop into the air fryer. Really, folks in America have loved these nuggets forever, and with this air fryer twist, you can enjoy homemade chicken nuggets minus the extra oil. The seasoning mix really makes them pop. I mean, think garlic, a touch of paprika, salt, and pepper. So every nugget is tender and packed with flavor. Both kids and adults get a kick out of these because they taste just as good as the classic fried version, only lighter and a bit healthier. And the sauce? Pairing them with ketchup or mayo is a must. Throw in some air fryer potatoes on the side—it's one of those easy recipes you’ll want to whip up again and again.

Unlike traditional fried nuggets, these crispy air fryer nuggets have a moist, juicy inside and a crispy outside without the mess or the need for a big pot of oil. And here's the deal: That’s why air fryer cooking is so appealing—it all comes together quickly, making them perfect for busy nights. You can even experiment with different chicken cuts, like thighs for a richer bite or tenderloins for an extra tender finish. Whether you’re serving these nuggets at a family get-together or just enjoying a late-night snack, they’re the kind of food that disappears fast. Really, really fast. People often mention how air fryer recipes like this feel as satisfying as street food. Thing is, they don’t leave you feeling weighed down. Whether it’s for a crowd or just some healthy chicken nuggets for a weeknight dinner, this dish is a win for anyone looking for simple, family-friendly meals that don’t skimp on taste. Once you try these—well, you might not be able to stop! Pretty much.

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INGREDIENTS

for 16 nuggets
Chicken breast 1.1 lbs (500 g)
Bread crumbs 1.67 cups (200 g)
Fine salt 1 tsp
Sweet Paprika 1 tsp
Onion powder 1 tsp
Garlic powder 1 tsp
Extra virgin olive oil 0.3 tsp (20 g)
For the Breading
Remilled durum wheat semolina 0.8 cup (100 g)
Eggs 3
Breadcrumbs 0.833 cup (100 g)
Preparation

How to prepare Nuggets in air fryer

To prepare the nuggets in an air fryer, start by cleaning the chicken breast from bones and fat 1. Once cleaned, cut it into 1-inch pieces 2 and place it in a mixer equipped with blades 3.

Add the bread crumbs 4 and season with salt 5 and sweet paprika 6.

Also add the onion powder 7 and the garlic. Pour the extra virgin olive oil 8 and close the mixer with its lid 9.

Blend everything until the mixture detaches from the sides 10 and is homogeneous. With wet hands, take 0.7 ounces of the mixture 12, form balls and place them on a tray 12. With these doses, you will get 16 nuggets.

Roll each ball first in the semolina 13, making sure to remove the excess 14. Then dip it in the beaten eggs 15.

Roll it in the breadcrumbs 16, then give it the classic shape by molding it with your hands 16. Place the nuggets in the air fryer basket and pour the remaining extra virgin olive oil 19.

Cook for 14 minutes at 356°F, turning the nuggets halfway through cooking 19. After the cooking time, the air fryer nuggets will be golden and crispy 20, ready to be enjoyed 21!

Storage

We recommend consuming the air fryer nuggets immediately or freezing them after cooking. Alternatively, they can be stored for one day in the refrigerator, well covered.

Advice

If you don't have garlic and onion powder at home, you can replace them with a minced garlic clove and onion in the mixer. For a touch of extra freshness, serve your chicken nuggets with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated lemon zest.

For the translation of some texts, artificial intelligence tools may have been used.