Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets have become an instant favorite in our household.
I started making these nuggets during one of those weeks when it felt like we were living in the drive-thru lane. I wanted a homemade alternative that wasn’t fussy but still delivered that irresistible crunch and juicy interior that everyone loves. What I love most about this recipe is how simple and quick it is—no deep frying, no greasy mess, and everything cooks up beautifully in the air fryer. Plus, the golden, crispy coating is everything you could want in a nugget.
The first time I served these, they disappeared in minutes. My kids dipped them in ketchup, my husband went for honey mustard, and I savored mine plain because they’re just that good on their own. Now they’re a regular part of our meal rotation, especially on busy weeknights when I need something quick, satisfying, and a little bit special. I’m confident that once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your home too.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly more forgiving if you overcook them. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless for even cooking.
Do I have to use an air fryer?
While this recipe is designed for an air fryer, you can bake the nuggets in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious.
Can these nuggets be frozen?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ketchup is a classic, but ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo pairs wonderfully with these nuggets.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Definitely! Just substitute the breadcrumbs and flour for your favorite gluten-free alternatives.
What You Need to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray (or your preferred cooking spray)
Special Tools:
Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Tongs
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for best flavor.
Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Nuggets: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure they’re well coated.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them—cook in batches if needed.
Cook: Lightly spray the nuggets with olive oil spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Making the Best Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Don’t skip the buttermilk soak! It tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick better.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; they create a lighter, crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs.
Spray generously but lightly with oil to get that perfect golden finish without making them greasy.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate to crisp them up.
Add a little spice if you like a kick—cayenne pepper or hot paprika work wonderfully in the coating.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These nuggets were a huge hit with my kids! So easy and way better than fast food. Definitely a keeper.” — Melissa H.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved the crispiness! I might add a bit more seasoning next time for extra flavor, but overall fantastic.” — Jake R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for busy weeknights. We dipped ours in ranch and everyone went back for seconds!” — Karen D.
⭐⭐⭐ “Good, but mine weren’t as crispy as I hoped. Maybe I didn’t spray enough oil. Will try again!” — Nina B.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Best homemade nuggets I’ve ever made! Super crispy and juicy—my new go-to recipe.” — Ellie S.
Printable Recipe
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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a healthier, homemade alternative to the drive-thru favorite. Juicy, flavorful chicken pieces are coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and air-fried to golden perfection. Ready in just minutes, they're the perfect solution for busy weeknights and kid-approved dinners!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray (or your preferred cooking spray)
- Special Tools:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for best flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Nuggets: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure they’re well coated.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them—cook in batches if needed.
- Cook: Lightly spray the nuggets with olive oil spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
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