Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on classic chicken nuggets using a simple marinade of pickle juice and a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, these nuggets are golden brown, juicy inside, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried nuggets.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs. chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- ½ cup pickle juice
- ¼ cup milk (regular or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
Coating
- â…” cup flour (or a gluten-free 1-to-1 blend)
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1-2 Tbsp. powdered sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. paprika
For Cooking
- ¼ cup peanut oil (or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together pickle juice, milk, and eggs. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and toss to coat them completely. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow flavors to infuse and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, plain breadcrumbs, powdered sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Coat the Chicken Nuggets: Using tongs, remove chicken pieces from the marinade letting the excess liquid drip off. Add a few pieces at a time into the breadcrumb mixture, tossing gently until each piece is evenly coated. Repeat until all chicken pieces are coated. Some coating mix may remain.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat your 6-quart air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Brush the air fryer grate with 1 tablespoon of peanut oil to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Nuggets: Arrange the coated nuggets in a single layer on the air fryer grate. Brush the tops with an additional tablespoon of peanut oil. Cook for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. When flipping, brush the other side with the remaining tablespoon of peanut oil to ensure even crispiness.
- Serve: Remove the nuggets once golden and crispy. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, special sauce, or Chick-fil-A sauce.
Notes
- Marinating chicken longer intensifies the pickle flavor but increases salt absorption—adjust salt in coating accordingly.
- Use a gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Powdered sugar in the coating is optional but adds a subtle sweetness that balances savory flavors.
- Ensure pieces are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer for even cooking.
- Brush oil on nuggets before and during cooking to achieve maximum crispiness without deep frying.
