Air fryer chicken nuggets

Air fryer chicken nuggets

20 min
A delightful crunch and punchy flavours are what you get when you make chicken nuggets in air fryer. The golden, crispy exterior and the tender, juicy inside ensure these nuggets are a hit with the whole family. And guess what? Since they are made in an air fryer, you do not have to worry about oil-filled pans or a splattering mess. With a cornflake crust adding an exciting twist and a blend of spices jazzing up the flavours, these nuggets are a masterpiece just waiting to be devoured. Get ready to be wowed from the first bite.
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Instructions

  • Clean and cut chicken fillets into small pieces (approx. 2 x 2 cm). Mix all spices and season the chicken pieces.
  • Crush cornflakes lightly and put them in a deep plate. Whisk egg in another deep plate and put flour in a third one.
  • Coat the chicken pieces in flour, egg, and finally cornflakes.
  • Place the nuggets in an air fryer, spray them with cooking spray (this can be skipped), and cook them for about 12 minutes at 180°C.
Enjoy!
Tip

To reheat nuggets, space them out in the air fryer for optimal heat circulation and cook them until they regain their initial crunch and are heated through.

Tip

As for the size of your chicken pieces, aim for a uniform size among your nuggets – we recommend about 2 x 2 cm. It will ensure that they cook evenly and at the same rate. Remember, golden-brown and crispy is the benchmark for doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to check if your chicken is cooked. It should reach an internal temperature of 75°C.

Questions about air fryer chicken nuggets

Chicken nuggets are enjoyed by people of all ages. If you have never prepared them in an air fryer before, you might have a few questions. But worry not, we have provided answers to some of the most important ones below.

Can you cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer. The high heat and rapid air circulation in the air fryer create a crispy, golden-brown exterior while maintaining a tender and juicy interior. This closely mimics the taste and texture achieved by traditional deep frying but with significantly less oil. Additionally, the quick cooking time can preserve more of the natural flavours of the chicken and spices, resulting in a more flavourful nugget.
How long to cook chicken nuggets in air fryer?
If you cook the nuggets at 180°C, it should take about 12 minutes. However, the exact time varies depending on the size of the nuggets and the specific model of air fryer you are using. It is always a good idea to check the nuggets for doneness – they should be golden-brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked on the inside.
What to serve with homemade air fryer nuggets?
Enjoy your nuggets as a simple side, pair them with chips or vegetables, or make them the star of the meal with a selection of dips.

Ingredients

Chicken fillets (approx. 250 g)
2
Coarse salt
1 tsp
Paprika
½ tsp
Garlic powder
½ tsp
Cayenne pepper
¼ tsp
Wheat flour
100 g
Cornflakes
50 g
Egg
1
Oil and butter cooking spray
Freshly ground pepper
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Crunchy and tender chicken nuggets in air fryer

These perfectly cooked chicken nuggets balance a crispy crunch with tender juiciness. While the air fryer may be a trendy kitchen gadget, it proves its worth when it comes to these nuggets. The rapid hot air circulation in the air fryer crisps up the nuggets beautifully, giving them a golden-brown, crunchy exterior while preserving the juicy, tender meat within.

The spices work their magic, too, permeating the chicken with an exciting combination of flavours. Whether it is the smoky depth of paprika, the robust earthiness of garlic powder, or the fiery undertones of cayenne, each spice adds a new dimension. And let us not forget the convenience of the air fryer – it is quick, easy, and leaves your kitchen devoid of oily mess.

Cornflakes to make it crispy on the outside

Who knew that your humble breakfast companion could moonlight as the secret to crispy nuggets? Cornflakes add their charm to the taste and texture of the air fryer chicken nuggets. When crushed lightly, they form a rough and ready surface that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. This crispy outer layer contrasts with the tender chicken within, creating a delightful textural experience. As the cornflakes toast, they develop a nutty, subtly sweet flavour that brings a whole new depth to your nuggets, making them hard to resist.

For more wonderful air fryer recipes, check out our juicy air fryer chicken, air fryer broccoli with cheese, and flavourful air fryer quesadillas.

A delicious treat for children and adults to enjoy

These golden bites of joy are a childhood favourite that you never grow out of. They are a reminder that the simplest foods often bring the most joy. Whether it is their nostalgic charm, playful shape, or familiar flavour, chicken nuggets have a way of warming hearts and pleasing palates across all ages. And the best part is that they are whatever you want them to be – comfort food, a party snack, or a quick dinner.

Prepare for busy days

When life gets hectic, the humble chicken nugget really shines. Cooking a large batch of nuggets and storing them in the freezer means you are always just a few minutes away from a meal that is sure to please. The air fryer is not just great for cooking your nuggets; you can also reheat frozen chicken nuggets in an air fryer and restore them to their original crispy glory in just a few minutes. With a stash of nuggets in your freezer, you are always ready to serve up a satisfying meal, no matter how busy your day is.

Add your own touch

Nuggets can serve as a canvas for your creativity. Feel free to experiment with different spices, for example, chipotle for a smoky kick or a sprinkle of thyme for a touch of earthy sweetness. Fancy a hint of the exotic? A pinch of cumin or curry powder can do wonders, providing the chicken with a distinctive flavour that is warm and earthy with a subtle touch of sweetness.

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