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Overhead view of a plate of crispy air fryer chicken nuggets with a golden, crunchy coating, served with small bowls of ketchup, honey mustard, and ranch dipping sauce on a dark surface.

Crispy Homemade Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Diana Lopez
These homemade air fryer chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Coated in seasoned Panko breadcrumbs and cooked until golden, they're easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 307 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

For the chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins*
  • 1½ teaspoons paprika or smoked paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
  • ¾ teaspoon onion powder (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (I use ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the coating

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Cut the chicken breasts or tenderloins into 1-inch (2.54 cm) pieces.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and toss until evenly coated with the seasonings. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  • Add the melted butter and olive oil to the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
  • In a large Ziploc bag, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, additional salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and powdered sugar (if using). Shake to mix.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the bag, seal, and shake until thoroughly coated with the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between the pieces. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 9–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and your air fryer. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • *For reference, two medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts weigh approximately 0.75 to 1 pound (about 340 to 450 grams total).
  • The chili powder adds a little extra flavor and warmth, while the powdered sugar adds a subtle sweetness to the coating. Both can be omitted if desired.
  • Adjust the seasonings to your taste, or add your favorite spices, such as oregano or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • For the best results, reheat the nuggets in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) until heated through and crispy, about 3–5 minutes. Avoid reheating them in the microwave, as the coating will become soft rather than crispy.
Nutritional values are approximate and calculated per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 307kcal, Carbohydrates: 19g, Protein: 26g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 7g, Trans Fat: 0.1g, Cholesterol: 80mg, Sodium: 393mg, Potassium: 494mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 7g, Vitamin A: 688IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 40mg, Iron: 2mg
Keyword air fryer chicken nuggets, chicken nuggets
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