Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a quick weeknight dinner option, look no further than these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets. These nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a spicy buffalo sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy all the flavor with less oil, making them a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You might wonder what makes these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets stand out from the rest. Here are a few reasons:

• Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, so you can indulge without the guilt.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, these nuggets can be ready in about 30 minutes, making mealtime a breeze.
• Customizable Heat: You can adjust the spice level to your liking, whether you prefer mild or extra hot.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night, a family dinner, or a snack for movie time, these nuggets fit right in.

What to Buy

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Prep & Cook Tools

You will need a few essential tools to make this recipe a success:

• Air Fryer: The star of the show, perfect for achieving that crispy texture.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the buttermilk and egg smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To toss the nuggets with the buffalo sauce at the end.

Stepwise Method: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. This size is perfect for achieving that bite-sized nugget texture.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Place the breaded chicken nuggets on a plate or baking sheet.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your nuggets start cooking immediately when placed inside.

Step 5: Air Fry the Nuggets

Arrange the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the nuggets are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.

Step 7: Toss the Nuggets

Once the nuggets are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Toss gently until all the pieces are well coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets hot, with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!

Variations by Season

Feel free to get creative with your nuggets! Here are some variations to try:

• Honey Garlic Buffalo: Mix honey into the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Buffalo Ranch: Add ranch seasoning to the flour mixture for an extra flavor boost.
• Spicy Lemon Pepper: Toss with lemon pepper seasoning instead of buffalo sauce for a refreshing change.
• Cheesy Buffalo: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the flour for a cheesy crust.

Author’s Commentary

Creating these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets has been a delightful experience for me. The air fryer truly transforms the way we enjoy fried food while keeping it healthier. Plus, the combination of buttery buffalo sauce with crispy chicken is simply irresistible. This recipe is not just for the adults; kids love them too! You can even involve them in the breading process, making it a fun family activity.

Save It for Later

If you’re like me, you love saving recipes that you can come back to. Bookmark this page or print it out for your recipe binder. Trust me, you’ll want to make these nuggets over and over again, whether for parties, game nights, or a simple weeknight dinner. They’re bound to become a family favorite!

Reader Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well, providing a juicier texture. Just be sure to trim any excess fat before cutting them into pieces.

Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with these nuggets?

These nuggets pair perfectly with a variety of sides such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing for a complete snack experience.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes! You can freeze the cooked nuggets. Just let them cool down, then store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Cook This Next

• Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese
• Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

That’s a Wrap

After indulging in these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets, you’ll understand why they’re such a hit. Their crispy exterior, juicy interior, and spicy flavor make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—or keep them all to yourself!