If you’ve ever craved the deliciously addictive nuggets from your favorite fast food joint, you’re in for a treat. This air fryer Chick-Fil-A nuggets recipe brings all the flavor and crispiness without leaving the comfort of your home. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can indulge in these nuggets with less oil and mess, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
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Growing up, my family had a tradition of visiting the local Chick-Fil-A every Saturday after my soccer games. It became our little ritual, and the memory of sharing those crispy, golden bites stays with me. When I got my air fryer, I knew I had to recreate those beloved nuggets, and let me tell you, the first bite transported me back to those cherished childhood weekends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s quick, easy, and requires minimal clean-up. The air fryer makes it significantly healthier, reducing the need for deep frying. These nuggets are incredibly juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, rivaling the original fast-food version. Plus, it’s customizable, so everyone in the family can enjoy them just the way they like.
Ingredients Notes
You’ll need chicken breast, pickle juice, milk, flour, powdered sugar, and spices like paprika and garlic powder. For the best results, marinate the chicken in pickle juice and milk for a few hours to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. If you’re out of time or ingredients, lemon juice can substitute pickle juice, or buttermilk can replace the milk for a tangier touch.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by cutting your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2
Place the chicken pieces into a bowl and cover them with a mixture of pickle juice and milk. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
Step 3
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). In a separate bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and your preferred seasonings.
Step 4
Remove chicken from the marinade and toss in the flour mixture until evenly coated. For a thicker crust, repeat this step.
Step 5
Arrange the chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Storage Options
Leftover nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that perfect crispiness. For longer storage, these nuggets freeze well. Place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for the best texture.
Variations & Substitutions
For those needing a gluten-free option, substitute rice flour or gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour. To add a spicy kick, mix cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the marinade. Vegetarians can swap the chicken for firm tofu, following the same marinating and cooking instructions.
Serving Suggestions
These nuggets make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or game nights. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce, or include them as part of a homemade fast-food combo with waffle fries and a side salad. They’re also great packed in school or work lunches for a delightful midday treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They will be juicier and have more flavor due to higher fat content. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer helps achieve a crispy exterior more effectively and ensures even cooking. It’s strongly recommended to preheat your air fryer for the best results.
Could I use this method to make larger portions?
Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if needed and keep the already cooked nuggets warm in a low oven while finishing the rest.
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups buttermilk for marination
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 cup cornstarch
- 0.25 cup honey for dipping sauce
- 0.5 cup mustard for dipping sauce
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil spray for air frying
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, mix chicken pieces with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch.
- Drain chicken from buttermilk, coat in the flour mixture, press to adhere, and shake off excess.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with vegetable oil.
- Place chicken in a single layer in the basket. Spray tops with oil spray. Air fry for 7 minutes.
- Flip pieces, spray again, and cook for another 6-8 minutes, until golden and crisp.
- Mix honey and mustard in a small dish for dipping sauce. Serve chicken hot with the sauce.
