Craving those crispy, golden nuggets but worried about the deep-fryer blues? Fear not, nugget lovers! Your trusty air fryer is here to the rescue, transforming your favorite childhood treat into a healthier, guilt-free masterpiece. These air-fried beauties are bursting with flavor, packed with protein, low in fat and high in protein, making them the PERFECT snack or light meal for the entire family!
As good as fried chicken is, why ditch the deep fryer? Traditional methods pack a punch of unhealthy fats and oils, but this air fryer recipe uses just a touch of avocado oil to achieve that irresistible crunch without the greasy guilt. Plus, it’s faster and easier than ever, leaving you more time to savor the deliciousness.
Ready to whip up these nuggets of goodness? Here’s the recipe:
“No Fry” Healthy Chicken Nuggets
Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2-3 tablespoons Cassava Flour or all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Ranch seasoning ( I use Trader Joe’s)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Avocado oil spray (or whatever oil spray you prefer)
Instructions:
- Cube and season your chicken: Cut the chicken into ¾-inch cubes, season with ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper, then prepare your dredging station with flour, egg, and seasoned panko.
- Dredge like a pro: Coat the chicken in flour, dunk it in the egg (letting excess drip off), and finally, give it a good roll in the panko mixture, pressing to make sure it sticks. Repeat with all the chicken.
- Air fry to perfection: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spray the basket with olive oil and cook the nuggets in batches for 5 minutes each, shaking halfway through.
- Serve and savor: Enjoy your crispy, healthy nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce – hummus, ranch dressing, or avocado crema are all excellent choices!
Nutrition per serving
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1 gram
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Carbohydrates: 21 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Protein: 30 grams
These air fryer chicken nuggets are a healthy way to satisfy your cravings and fuel your body with good-for-you ingredients. Get creative with your seasonings and feel free to experiment with dipping sauces!
Do you have a healthy recipe request? Leave me a comment here or send me a direct message on Instagram @Allyfitatl
Happy and healthy eating!
xo,
Ally
Welcome to Allyfit! 