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Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets
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Crispy, golden-brown chicken nuggets that mimic the iconic fast-food flavor, made healthier in the air fryer. Tender chicken is brined in pickle juice for tangy moisture, then coated in a lightly sweetened seasoned breading for that signature crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 16 pieces)
  • 1/2 cup dill pickle juice
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Avocado oil spray (or canola oil spray)

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken pieces in a medium bowl and pour the dill pickle juice over them. Stir to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to tenderize and flavor the chicken. Meanwhile, set up the breading station.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and whole milk until fully combined. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pickle juice and pat each piece dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to help the egg wash adhere. Discard the used pickle juice.
  4. Working with a few pieces at a time, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides. Place the breaded nuggets on a plate or wire rack while you finish the rest.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Arrange the nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each for air circulation. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with avocado oil.
  7. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6 minutes. Open the basket, flip each nugget with tongs, and spray again lightly with oil. Continue cooking for 4 to 6 more minutes, until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Check the internal temperature of the largest nugget with an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C). If not, cook in 1-minute increments until safe.
  9. Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as Chick-fil-A sauce, honey mustard, or ranch.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway, until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy. Freezing: Breaded raw nuggets can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months; cook from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 14-16 minutes, flipping once.

Nutrition

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Find it online: https://copycatkitchenco.com/air-fryer-chick-fil-a-nuggets/