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Air fryer buffalo chicken nuggets with a crispy golden coating, juicy tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, celery sticks, and dipping sauce, served as a flavorful appetizer or game day snack.
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Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets - Crispy, Spicy, and Fast

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) or chicken tenders
  • Buffalo hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your favorite)
  • Unsalted butter
  • Cornstarch
  • Plain breadcrumbs or panko
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Eggs
  • Milk or buttermilk
  • Cooking oil spray (avocado or canola)
  • Optional dips: ranch, blue cheese dressing
  • Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, green onions, sesame seeds
  • Sides: celery sticks, carrot sticks

Instructions

  • Prep the chicken: Cut chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch nuggets. Pat dry with paper towels to help the coating stick.
  • Season the coating: In one bowl, mix 1/2 cup cornstarch with 1 teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, plus 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Breading station: In a second bowl, whisk 2 eggs with 2 tablespoons milk. In a third bowl, add 1 to 1.5 cups plain breadcrumbs or panko.
  • Coat the nuggets: Toss chicken in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press into breadcrumbs to fully coat. Place on a plate.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. A hot basket helps the nuggets crisp.
  • Oil lightly: Spray the air fryer basket and the tops of the nuggets with cooking oil. Don’t drench—just a light, even mist.
  • Air fry in batches: Arrange nuggets in a single layer with space between. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying the other side. They’re done when internal temp hits 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crisp.
  • Make the buffalo sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in 1/3–1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce to taste. Warm until smooth. For more tang, add 1 teaspoon white vinegar. For a hint of sweetness, add 1/2 teaspoon honey.
  • Toss and serve: Transfer hot nuggets to a large bowl. Drizzle the warm buffalo sauce over and toss to coat. Serve right away with ranch or blue cheese and crunchy veggies.