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These Air Fryer ChickFilA Chicken Nuggets capture the flavor of the famous fast food nuggets without the need for deep frying. This recipe offers a healthier, quicker way to enjoy that signature crunch and juicy interior using your air fryer. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying snack without the guilt.
My family fell in love with this recipe as soon as I made it. I remember the first batch coming out perfectly crispy and juicy, and since then my kids have asked for these nuggets every week.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: fresh and boneless for tender, juicy bites
- Buttermilk: essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding flavor, real buttermilk is best but you can make a substitute with milk and vinegar
- Egg: helps bind the marinade and coating
- Dill pickle juice: gives the nuggets that unmistakable tangy Chick Fil A flavor
- All purpose flour: forms the crispy coating, choose a finely milled flour for best results
- Powdered sugar: adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors
- Cornstarch: contributes extra crunch to the coating
- Salt and pepper: seasoning basics to enhance every bite
- Olive oil spray: helps create a golden crust without deep frying, using olive oil spray protects your air fryer basket from sticking and damage
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and set them aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and dill pickle juice until completely smooth. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight is best to tenderize and develop flavor fully.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a large resealable bag, combine all purpose flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake well to mix the dry ingredients evenly.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Take the chicken out of the marinade and add a quarter of the pieces at a time into the flour mixture bag. Seal and shake gently but thoroughly until each nugget is well coated in the dry seasoning mix.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it preheat fully to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up instantly when placed inside.
- Arrange and Spray:
- Spray the air fryer basket generously with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer without touching. Spray each nugget liberally with olive oil spray to help foster the crispy, golden crust.
- Cook the Nuggets:
- Air fry the chicken for 8 minutes total, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. During the flip, spray the nuggets again with olive oil spray to maintain crispness. Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Repeat and Serve:
- Remove the cooked nuggets and repeat the breading and air frying process with the remaining batches. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like classic Chick Fil A sauce, ranch, or honey mustard.
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I love how these nuggets bring back memories of family outings to Chick Fil A but in the comfort of my own kitchen. The pickle juice addition was a game changer for me.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 5 minutes to bring back that crisp texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have buttermilk, mix a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before using to create a similar tang and acidity. Olive oil spray can be substituted with coconut oil spray as it also resists sticking and adds a nice light flavor. You can experiment with adding a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the flour mix for a twist on the classic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these nuggets with waffle fries and a side of coleslaw for a complete Chick Fil A inspired meal. They also work wonderfully in wraps or salads and are great served with a trio of dips such as Chick Fil A sauce, ranch dressing, and honey mustard.
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These nuggets are a weeknight winner and a crowd pleaser. With a little planning for the marinade, they come out crispy and juicy every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating the air fryer to 390°F helps seal in juices and ensures a crisp coating on the chicken pieces.
- → Why is olive oil spray needed?
Olive oil spray adds a golden crispness and prevents the coating from sticking to the basket during air frying.
- → Can I substitute buttermilk?
For a buttermilk substitute, mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with whole milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
- → What sauces pair well with this chicken?
Popular options include Chick-Fil-A sauce, ranch dressing, and honey mustard to complement the chicken's flavors.
- → How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, typically after 8 minutes of air frying.
- → Can these be baked instead of air fried?
Yes, baking at 400°F with melted butter can produce a crisp exterior, but air frying yields the best texture.