Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

The sizzle of chicken nuggets crisping away in an air fryer fills the room with the promise of a delicious meal. These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Nuggets are not just quick to make at around 30 minutes total, but they also bring a golden crunch that will keep everyone coming back for more. Thanks to the air fryer, these nuggets are significantly healthier without compromising on flavor or texture.

This recipe is perfect for famished families, snack lovers, or anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying dish. Serve them up for a weeknight dinner or pack them for lunch! You can even prepare them ahead of time and store them for later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• Quick cooking time makes them a weeknight favorite.
• A simple marinade ensures the chicken is flavorful throughout.
• Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to prepare these tasty nuggets.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch by 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Coating

• 1/2 cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste

Use up to 1 1/4 lbs of chicken for more servings.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free option.
• Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano.
• Olive oil can be swapped with any neutral oil.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to cook your nuggets.

Cut

Cut the chicken breasts into two-inch long by one-inch wide cubes and put them in a large mixing bowl.

Coat

Add the extra virgin olive oil to the chicken and coat the chicken cubes with it. You want to make sure you add the oil first so the remaining ingredients stick to the chicken.

Mix

Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl and mix thoroughly to coat the chicken.

Air fry

Add the coated chicken to your air fryer in a single layer. If you have a basket air fryer, likely you’ll need to cook the chicken in two batches.

Cook

Set the temperature to 380F and cook them for 20 minutes.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Air fry for 5-7 minutes at 350F.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is well-coated for maximum flavor and crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust cooking time if your nuggets are larger or smaller than specified.
• Consider marinating the chicken for an hour for deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with honey mustard or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect as game day snacks for an easy crowd-pleaser.