Ingredients
For the Chicken Nuggets
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into nugget-size pieces
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds great flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Optional Seasoning Add-Ins
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
- Cut into evenly sized nugget pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Tip: Uniform size helps the nuggets stay juicy and cook evenly.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Place beaten eggs in one bowl.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Nuggets
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture.
- Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
- Place breaded nuggets on a plate while you finish the rest.
Tip: Don’t pack the breadcrumbs too tightly—light coating equals crispier nuggets.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Nuggets
- Arrange nuggets in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Nuggets should be golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).
Step 6: Serve
- Let nuggets rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or sweet chili sauce.
