Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Ready in about 31 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Homemade chicken nuggets with a crunchy golden crumb and tender inside, far better than shop-bought. The air fryer crisps them up with just a spray of oil, making a healthier favourite that kids and adults both love.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 80 g plain flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 120 g breadcrumbs
- 40 g grated parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Oil spray
Method
- 1Season the flour, then mix the breadcrumbs with parmesan, garlic powder and paprika.
- 2Coat each chunk in flour, egg and the crumb mix.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and spray with oil.
- 4Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
- 5Check the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F).
- 6Serve with your favourite dipping sauce.
Tips for the best results
- Cut the chicken into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Freeze a batch uncooked and air fry straight from frozen when needed.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer chicken nuggets steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Trusting the clock instead of a probe - Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets is ready at 74°C / 165°F in the thickest part.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer chicken nuggets?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 10-12 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
How do I know air fryer chicken nuggets is cooked through?
Use a probe in the thickest part. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets should reach 74°C / 165°F. Rest a few minutes before slicing so juices settle.
How many people does air fryer chicken nuggets serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.
Can I make these gluten free?
Yes, swap in gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs and they crisp up just as well.