Same size pieces
Small nuggets become dry before large pieces are through. About 3 cm large portions cook together reliably.
American Inspired Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Chicken breast is cut into bite-sized pieces, seasoned and classically breaded. In the air fryer, the small portion is cooked without a frying bath.
Total time
32 min
Calories
390 kcal
Servings
4 servings
Difficulty
Easy
Why this recipe works
Crispy nuggets made from real chicken breast
Home-made nuggets can be controlled better in size, seasoning and breading than a finished product. Panko delivers a loose crust, some oil supports browning. Since chicken breast dries out quickly, all pieces should be similarly large and cook only to the safe internal temperature.
Quick Dinners
Dinner
Meat
Air Fryer Recipes
Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Self-made chicken nuggets become crispy with Panko and remain juicy inside when equally large chicken pieces are thinly oiled.
Ingredients
4 servings
Method
-
1
Cut the chicken
Pat the chicken dry and cut it across the grain into pieces about 3 cm wide. Halve very thick pieces.
-
2
Set up the breading station
Mix the flour with the paprika, garlic, pepper and half the salt. Beat the eggs and place the panko in a separate bowl.
-
3
Bread the nuggets
Coat the chicken first in the seasoned flour, then dip it in the egg and finally coat it loosely with panko.
-
4
Add the oil
Preheat the air fryer to 190 °C. Lightly spray or brush both sides of the nuggets with oil.
-
5
Cook in batches
Cook the nuggets in a single layer for 6 minutes, turn and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes. The chicken must reach an internal temperature of at least 72 °C.
-
6
Mix the dip
Mix the yogurt and ketchup with the remaining salt. Rest the nuggets briefly and serve immediately with the dip.
Kitchen know-how
Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
breading thin oils
Panko remains light and dry in places without fat. A fine, even oil film is sufficient for browning.
Cooking chicken for sure
Measure the largest piece sideways and remove at least 72 °C. Do not continue to cook unnecessarily.
Variations
How to adapt this recipe
Replace Panko with 100 g unsweetened, coarsely crushed cornflakes. Work particularly carefully when turning.
Replace 30 g of panko with finely grated parmesan and reduce the amount of salt slightly.
Nutrition per serving
390kcal
31.0 gCarbohydrates
39.0 gProtein
12.0 gFat
Values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients, brands, portion size and preparation method used.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
About 3 cm large pieces need about 10 to 12 minutes at 190 °C. After six minutes turn around.
You can pan them up to four hours before and cool them covered. Only oil thinly right before cooking.
Dry panko areas or a full basket prevent even browning. Finely spread oil and cook in one layer.
Yes, the temperature and time of the packaging apply. They are usually pre-cooked and need a different cooking time than this recipe.
Cool quickly, cool for a maximum of two days and heat completely at 180 °C.
Keep cooking