Best 2 Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Panko Recipes

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Crispy, golden-brown chicken nuggets made in an air fryer are a healthier alternative to traditional fried nuggets. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a flavorful panko breadcrumb mixture and cooked to perfection in hot air, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. The air fryer method eliminates the need for deep frying, reducing the fat content and calories while maintaining the delicious taste and texture of fried chicken nuggets. This recipe provides detailed instructions for making air fryer chicken nuggets using panko breadcrumbs, along with variations for adding different seasonings and flavors. Additionally, the article includes a vegan alternative using tofu instead of chicken, catering to various dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for a healthier version of classic chicken nuggets or a plant-based option, this recipe guide has something for everyone to enjoy.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

AIR FRYER CHICKEN NUGGETS



Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets image

Why have frozen chicken nuggets when you can have them fresh and homemade? They come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside, thanks to the air fryer.

Provided by Soup Loving Nicole

Categories     100+ Everyday Cooking Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 cup buttermilk
2 pounds chicken tenderloins, cut into nugget size
1 cup flour
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon parsley flakes
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 eggs
2 cups panko bread crumbs
cooking spray

Steps:

  • Mix buttermilk and chicken in a large bowl and let soak while you prepare the seasoned flour.
  • Combine flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Beat eggs in a separate bowl. Pour bread crumbs onto a flat plate.
  • Dredge each chicken nugget first in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Spray the basket with cooking spray. Place as many nuggets into the basket as you can without overcrowding. Lightly mist the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray.
  • Cook for 10 minutes. Flip chicken nuggets and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove and repeat with remaining nuggets.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 310.4 calories, Carbohydrate 33.5 g, Cholesterol 118.5 mg, Fat 6.8 g, Fiber 0.9 g, Protein 33.4 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 563.8 mg, Sugar 1.7 g

AIR FRYER CHICKEN NUGGETS



Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets image

These Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are crunchy on the outside and juicy on theinside! They are perfect for dunking in your favorite sauces and are healthierthan take-out! Perfect for busy weeknights, they cook in 8 minutes!

Provided by Lauren

Categories     Chicken Recipes

Time 18m

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
¾ cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
olive oil spray
barbeque sauce and honey mustard for serving

Steps:

  • Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F.
  • Using a sharp knife cut the chicken breasts into about 20 nuggets.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces and melted butter. Mix to evenly coat and then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a second bowl, mix the panko, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  • Add 3 to 4 nuggets to the bowl with the panko mixture. Pess the nuggets into the coating on all sides until they're evenly covered. Transfer nuggets to a large plate or baking sheet and continue until the nuggets are the remaining chicken pieces.
  • Spray the nuggets on both sides with olive oil spray.
  • Spray or brush the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or olive oil.
  • Place the nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Cook for 8 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through.
  • Serve immediately with barbeque sauce and honey mustard for dipping.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 5 nuggets, Calories 175 kcal, Carbohydrate 11 g, Protein 14 g, Fat 8 g, SaturatedFat 4 g, TransFat 1 g, Cholesterol 51 mg, Sodium 440 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 1 g, UnsaturatedFat 3 g

Tips:

  • Use fresh or thawed chicken: Fresh chicken nuggets will give you the best results, but you can also use frozen nuggets that have been thawed in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Coat the chicken nuggets in a light layer of oil: This will help them crisp up in the air fryer.
  • Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Leave some space between the nuggets so that they can cook evenly.
  • Cook the chicken nuggets at a high temperature: This will help them get crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
  • Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking: This will help the nuggets cook evenly.
  • Serve the chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce: Some popular options include ketchup, honey mustard, and ranch dressing.

Conclusion:

Air fryer chicken nuggets are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal. They are perfect for busy weeknights or when you are craving something crunchy and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes in the air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, golden-brown chicken nuggets that the whole family will love. Whether you are using fresh or frozen chicken nuggets, be sure to follow the tips above for the best results. And don't forget to experiment with different dipping sauces to find your favorite combination.

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