Introduction

Have you ever wondered if you could transform a classic comfort food into a healthier version without sacrificing flavor? Imagine luminous, golden, crispy chicken nuggets that are not only irresistible but also made using lighter ingredients and an air fryer! With the delightful Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets, you can dive into a plate of mouthwatering goodness that is both satisfying and holds a great nutritional profile.

Ingredients List

Gather the following ingredients to create your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets:

• 1 lb chicken breast – Tender and juicy, boneless and skinless works best. You can substitute with turkey breast for a leaner option.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Use plain or seasoned, or opt for whole wheat for added nutrition. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a fantastic alternative.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient! Consider pecorino for a sharper flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Beaten; these will create a luscious coating. Alternatively, use flax eggs for a vegan option.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – To elevate flavor; onion powder is a great substitute.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For a hint of smokiness; cayenne can add some heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings for balance.
• Cooking spray – To ensure a crispy finish without too much oil.

Timing

This recipe is a breeze to prepare!

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes in the air fryer
• Total Time: Just 25-27 minutes! This is about 20% less time compared to traditional frying methods, making it perfect for the busy weeknight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks. Ensure the pieces are uniform for even cooking. This is your chance to trim any excess fat for a leaner nugget!

Step 2: Create the Breading Station

Set up your three bowls: one for the beaten eggs, one for the breadcrumb mixture, and another for the chicken chunks. In the breadcrumb bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dunk each chicken piece first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer on your nuggets.

Step 5: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray, place the nuggets in a single layer, allowing space between them for airflow. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 6: Air Fry the Nuggets

Cook the chicken nuggets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they crisp evenly. A golden-brown color is the goal here!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own, or dipped in your favorite sauce!

Nutritional Information

Here are the key nutritional details for a serving (approximately 4-5 nuggets):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make your chicken nuggets even healthier, consider the following substitutions:

• Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed almonds or chickpea flour for a lower-carb option.
• Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan and cheesy flavor.
• Incorporate ground flaxseeds into the breadcrumb mixture for added omega-3 fatty acids.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets are incredibly versatile:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an added kick.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh side salad, roasted veggies, or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
• Make it a Meal: Toss them into a wrap with lettuce and avocado or mix into a hearty quinoa bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Basket: Ensure there’s space between the nuggets; overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the Preheat: Preheating the air fryer is essential for achieving a crispy texture.
• Not Cooking to Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These nuggets freeze well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Conclusion

To sum up, the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets delight with their crispy exterior and juicy centers. They are quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying! Try them today and let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

A: Can I make these nuggets with thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, making them a great alternative.

B: Can I cook these nuggets in a conventional oven instead?

Yes, you can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier version of fried nuggets.

C: How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Ensure the chicken is well-coated in egg and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken pieces before cooking.

D: Are these nuggets suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a perfect addition to your meal prep routine.

E: Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs work perfectly! Just be sure to check the ingredients if you’re looking for healthier options.

Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy crispy Air Fryer Parmesan chicken nuggets perfectly seasoned and easy to make A deliciously healthy snack or meal option awaits you

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb chicken breast

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks.

Step 2: Create the Breading Station – Set up three bowls for the beaten eggs, breadcrumb mixture, and chicken chunks.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken – Dunk each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer – Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Arrange in the Air Fryer – Spray the basket with cooking spray and place the nuggets in a single layer.

Step 6: Air Fry the Nuggets – Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy – Allow cooling for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Transform a classic comfort food into a healthier version with these crispy and delicious Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Nuggets.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main Dishes
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g