Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or spatula
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate dish, beat the egg.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten egg.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry the Nuggets:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
- If desired, drizzle the nuggets with a little olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip the nuggets halfway through cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the cooked chicken nuggets from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Crispy Nuggets:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the chicken nuggets are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to soggy nuggets.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Try adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a savory flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the coated chicken nuggets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy delicious, crispy air fryer chicken nuggets right in your own home.