Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets (with Ground Chicken)

Six breaded ground chicken nuggets arranged in an air fryer basket.

5 from 1 vote

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets (with Ground Chicken)

Ground chicken nuggets in the air fryer come out hot, crispy, and packed with flavor in just 20 minutes flat. The ingredients are simple, the steps are easy, and kids go nuts for them. Serve them fresh with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them vanish faster than you made them.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer ground chicken nuggets

Servings: Servings

Calories: 353kcal

Author: Bethany Galloway

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup breadcrumbs panko or gluten free
⅓ cup parmesan cheese finely grated
2 eggs
½ cup cornstarch

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, add the ground chicken and spices, and mix well. I like to use my hands for this step.
1 lb ground chicken, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Shape the ground chicken mixture into about 20 chicken nuggets. Each nugget will be around 1½ tablespoons of mixture.
Grab 3 small bowls. Add the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese to one bowl and mix well.
1 cup breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup parmesan cheese
To another bowl, add the 2 eggs and whisk them together, and add the cornstarch to the final bowl.
2 eggs, ½ cup cornstarch
Take one chicken nugget and coat it lightly in cornstarch. Then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, shaking off any excess. Repeat for the remaining nuggets.
Add the nuggets to the air fryer in a single layer and air fry for 10 minutes, flipping half way through with tongs.
Serve with your favorite dip, and enjoy!

Notes

Even shapes: Keep the nuggets about the same size so they cook evenly.
Single layer: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket or they won’t crisp up properly.
Spray lightly: A quick mist of olive oil spray helps the coating turn golden.
Check doneness: Nuggets should reach 165°F inside before serving.
Batch cooking: If you make more than one batch, keep the first round warm on a baking sheet in the oven.

Storage instructions:

Refrigerator: Store cooled nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Snacking: Leftover nuggets are perfect for quick lunches, salads, or late-night snacks.

Nutrition