If you’re looking for healthy chicken nugget recipes using an air fryer, you’ve come to the right place! These golden, crispy nuggets are packed with flavor and crunch, and they skip the oil bath of traditional fried nuggets.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
- 1 cup almond flour (or whole-wheat breadcrumbs for a lighter crunch)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
Instructions
First, pat your chicken pieces dry and season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Next, set up two shallow bowls: one for the beaten egg and another for the almond flour mixed with the paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Dip each chicken piece into the egg, shake off any excess, and then roll it in the seasoned almond flour mixture until fully coated. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the nuggets in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Mist the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray as well for extra crispiness.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let them rest for just a minute or two, then dig in.
These Zesty Almond-Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a terrific healthy spin on a familiar favorite—perfect for busy weeknights or a kid-approved lunch. The air fryer method means less oil and a lighter texture that still satisfies those fast-food cravings. Swap in breadcrumbs if you prefer a classic flavor, or toss in extra spices like chili powder or oregano for a bold twist. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s quick, easy, and truly delicious.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
