Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Nuggets

Enjoy these high-protein chicken nuggets coated in a crunchy pork rind crust.
⏱
Prep
15 mins
🔥
Cook
20 mins
🍽
Servings
4 servings
🌾
Carbs
8.6g
💪
Protein
57.3g
🫒
Fat
49g

I’ve found that these crispy air-fried chicken nuggets are not only a fun twist on a classic favorite but also packed with protein to keep you satisfied. Using chicken breast chunks soaked in a creamy mixture, they turn out tender and flavorful. The combination of pork rinds and spices creates a delightful crunch that I just can’t resist! For those avoiding dairy, coconut milk works beautifully as a substitute for heavy cream.

These nuggets are perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying snack. They’re gluten-free and refined-sugar-free, making them a nourishing choice for anyone navigating hormonal health. Plus, you can customize the spice level with hot sauce and add some grated Parmesan to the breading if you wish. Let’s dig in!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups pork rinds, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, omit for dairy-free)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream (or coconut milk), egg, and hot sauce until smooth.
  2. Add the chicken chunks to the mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them soak for about 15 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, mix the crushed pork rinds, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Remove the chicken from the soaking mixture, allowing excess to drip off before coating in the pork rind mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.
  6. Place the coated chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
  7. Air fry for about 10 minutes, then flip them and cook for another 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
  8. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the nuggets during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy your crispy nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (1 of 4)
Calories 660
Total Fat 49g
Total Carbohydrate 8.6g
  Total Sugars 0.4g
Protein 57.3g
Sodium 525mg
Calcium 75mg
Iron 0.9mg
Estimates computed by AI using density-aware ingredient values consistent with USDA / MyFitnessPal references. Values are approximate.

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