Description
These Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a delicious and nutritious twist on classic nuggets, using ground chicken mixed with finely shredded carrots and riced cauliflower. They are lightly seasoned, coated with a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, making them a perfect guilt-free snack or meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Chicken
- ½ cup (2 oz) Carrots, finely shredded
- ½ cup (2 oz) Cauliflower, riced
- 1 large Egg
Seasonings and Coating
- ¾ teaspoon Salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Onion powder
- ½ cup Plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the ideal cooking temperature for crisp, evenly cooked nuggets.
- Mix Chicken Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely shredded carrots, riced cauliflower, one egg, ¼ teaspoon of salt, paprika, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the plain breadcrumbs with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and dried parsley to create a flavorful coating for the nuggets.
- Form Nuggets: Wet your hands to prevent sticking and scoop about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture. Shape it into a nugget and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture to coat fully. Place the formed nuggets on parchment paper and repeat until all mixture is used.
- Air Fry Nuggets: Place the coated nuggets directly into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch for even cooking. Air fry for 5 minutes at 400°F.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip each nugget over using tongs or a spatula, then air fry for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear, indicating they are done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving to enjoy their crispy texture and flavorful taste safely.
Notes
- Using riced cauliflower and shredded carrots adds moisture and nutrients while keeping the nuggets light and healthy.
- Wetting your hands before shaping the nuggets helps prevent the mixture from sticking, making it easier to form uniform shapes.
- Ensure nuggets are spaced evenly in the air fryer basket for optimal crispness.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
