Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Name: How to Make the Best Air Fryer Chicken Strips at Home!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (Cut into strips); 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs (beaten); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon seasoned salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; as needed cooking spray (for air fryer)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/23/2025

If you’re looking to enjoy the taste of Chick-fil-A nuggets from the comfort of your home, this Air Fryer recipe is your new best friend. Creating those juicy, tender nuggets with a crispy coating is easier than ever, and the best part is they’re healthier compared to the classic fried version. Ready your air fryer for a delicious adventure!

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Growing up, Sunday traditions in our household often involved craving fast food that you couldn’t easily get. Chick-fil-A topped that list! I remember one Sunday, my mom decided to experiment, recreating their famous nuggets. With her own twist and a trusty Air Fryer, she managed to bring the magic right to our dining table. It’s not just a meal but a cherished memory now!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Convenience: This recipe utilizes an air fryer, cutting down on both calories and cooking time.
Healthier Option: Without the need for excessive oil, enjoy a lighter version of your favorite dish.
Flavor-Packed: The seasoning mix mimics the original while allowing for custom spice levels.
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little ones who adore nuggets, plus, they’re great for adults too!

Ingredients Notes

To capture the authentic taste, the ingredient list includes some key elements and adaptable substitutes.

Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness.
Pickle Juice: Provides a tangy marinade base. In a pinch, apple cider vinegar can be a substitute.
Buttermilk: Essential for the marinade. Make your own by adding lemon juice to regular milk if needed.
Seasoning Mix: Paprika, garlic powder, and powdered sugar form the base. Adjust to suit your taste preferences.
Breading: Use a mix of flour and cornstarch for that perfect crispy exterior.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Marinate the pieces in a mix of pickle juice and buttermilk for 30 minutes to absorb maximum flavor. For a deeper flavor, let them soak overnight.

Step 2

While the chicken marinates, prepare the seasoning mix by combining paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and powdered sugar in a bowl. Adjust these proportions depending on your palate preference.

Step 3

Remove chicken from the marinade and coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoning mix, ensuring every surface is covered with the flavorful dust.

Step 4

Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 5

Place the chicken pieces in the Air Fryer basket, spacing them out in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure an even fry.

Storage Options

Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the Air Fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain their crispiness. For freezing, arrange them in a single layer on a tray to freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw and reheat in the air fryer to enjoy again.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the breading instead of regular flour.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a hotter version.
Herbed Flavor: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these nuggets alongside homemade waffle fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They are fantastic as a protein-packed addition to lunchboxes or served at a casual gathering. Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch for an indulgent experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? While fresh chicken is recommended for optimal texture and flavor, you can use thawed frozen chicken. Ensure the chicken is completely thawed before marinating to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken properly.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? No problem! You can achieve a similar result by baking the nuggets in an oven preheated to 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. While they might not be as crispy, they’ll still be delicious!

Can I make these in advance for a party? Absolutely. Prepare and air fry the nuggets ahead of time, then reheat in the air fryer before serving. This ensures they remain crispy and warm when ready to serve.

With this air fryer recipe, you can finally enjoy the taste of your favorite fast-food nuggets at home while knowing exactly what’s in them. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these nuggets will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare these nuggets ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken up to overnight for enhanced flavor. You can also fully cook the nuggets and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked nuggets in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or from refrigerated for about 3-5 minutes, to restore crispiness.

What are some good substitutions for the ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk; let it sit for 5 minutes before using. For the pickle juice, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will slightly change. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the breading for a gluten-free flour blend. If you prefer a spicier nugget, add cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix to taste.

How do I know when the Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets are perfectly cooked?

The nuggets are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a nugget. Visually, the nuggets should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. They should also be firm to the touch, not soft or squishy. The aroma will be savory and slightly sweet, with the scent of the spices from the seasoning mix.

Can I double or scale up this recipe to make more nuggets?

Yes, you can definitely double or scale up this recipe. If doubling, you may need to cook the nuggets in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, ensuring each nugget cooks evenly. Adjust the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness at the end of the recommended time. For larger quantities, consider using multiple air fryers or baking in the oven to accommodate the increased volume of nuggets. Remember to proportionally increase the ingredients based on the number of servings needed.

What are the nutritional benefits of these Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets?

These air fryer nuggets offer several nutritional benefits. Chicken breast, the primary ingredient, is a lean protein source, essential for muscle building and repair. The use of the air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying, making this a healthier option. The seasonings, like paprika and garlic powder, provide antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory properties. The buttermilk marinade adds calcium and probiotics, contributing to gut health.

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How to Make the Best Air Fryer Chicken Strips at Home!

Discover the ultimate method to create crispy and succulent air fryer chicken strips in the comfort of your kitchen. These homemade strips are perfect for a snack or a full meal!

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 pounds chicken tenders Cut into strips
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs beaten
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.5 teaspoon paprika
as needed cooking spray for air fryer

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the marinade by combining buttermilk and beaten eggs in a bowl. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, seasoned salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Coat each strip thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing lightly for a uniform coating.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken strips in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Cook the strips for 7-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F.