Begin by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This uniform size ensures that all pieces cook evenly.
In one bowl, add the white whole-wheat flour. In a second bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and salt.
Start by coating each chicken cube in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the chicken.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken nuggets in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows the hot air to circulate effectively.
Cook the nuggets for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!