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Air fryer crispy chicken nuggets with a crunchy golden breadcrumb coating, juicy tender chicken inside, fresh parsley garnish, and lemon wedges, served as an easy family friendly meal or snack.
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Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Nuggets - Golden, Juicy, and Easy

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup plain fine breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk (or water)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to finish
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
  • Oil spray (avocado, canola, or olive oil spray)
  • Optional for serving: lemon wedges, ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch

Instructions

  • Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and keeps the nuggets from steaming.
  • Set up the dredging stations: In one shallow bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch. In a second bowl, beat the eggs with the milk. In a third bowl, mix panko, fine breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne.
  • Coat the chicken: Working in batches, toss the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off extra. Dip into the egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place coated pieces on a plate.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. A hot basket helps the nuggets crisp fast.
  • Oil and arrange: Lightly spray the air fryer basket. Add nuggets in a single layer with a little space between. Lightly mist the tops with oil. Don’t crowd the basket—work in batches if needed.
  • Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway and giving another light spray after flipping. Nuggets are done when golden brown and the internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
  • Season and serve: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt right as they come out. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces and a squeeze of lemon if you like.