If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, crispy treat that’s perfect for game day or a cozy night in, look no further than these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets. Tender morsels of chicken breast are coated in a spicy, buttery sauce and then air-fried to perfection, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and healthier than traditional fried nuggets. Whether you’re a fan of heat or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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What Sets This Recipe Apart
What truly distinguishes these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets from others is the blend of ingredients used to create a crispy coating without the guilt of deep frying. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch provides an incredible crunch, while the buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful. Add in the iconic Frank’s Red Hot Sauce mixed with butter for that classic buffalo flavor, and you’ve got a winner. The air fryer not only makes this recipe quicker but also allows you to enjoy your favorite spicy snack with less oil, making it a healthier alternative.
Ingredient Checklist
- 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
Recommended Tools
- Air Fryer – Essential for achieving that crispy texture without deep frying.
- Mixing Bowls – For marinating the chicken and mixing the coating.
- Whisk – To blend the egg and buttermilk smoothly.
- Measuring Cups – For accurate measurements of your ingredients.
- Cooking Spray – To ensure your nuggets don’t stick to the air fryer basket.
Method: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your 1-inch pieces of chicken breast in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This will be the crispy coating that takes your nuggets to the next level.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Take each piece, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, and then coat it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch. Repeat until all chicken pieces are coated.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the nuggets will cook evenly and achieve that crispy exterior.
Step 5: Cook the Nuggets
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the nuggets are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce until well combined. This spicy, buttery sauce is what gives your nuggets that classic buffalo flavor.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
Once the chicken nuggets are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Immediately toss them in the buffalo sauce until well coated. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy!
Spring to Winter: Ideas
- Spring: Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Summer: Pair with homemade coleslaw and cornbread for a classic BBQ feel.
- Fall: Incorporate into a buffalo chicken wrap with lettuce and tomato.
- Winter: Enjoy as a cozy snack while watching your favorite movies indoors.
Mistakes That Ruin Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Even the best recipes can go awry if certain mistakes are made. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the marinade – Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor and tenderness.
- Overcrowding the air fryer – This can lead to uneven cooking and soggy nuggets.
- Not preheating the air fryer – Preheating helps achieve that desired crispy texture.
- Skipping the sauce – The buffalo sauce is what gives these nuggets their signature kick, so don’t leave it out!
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets (which is a rare occurrence), don’t worry! They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through, maintaining that crispy texture. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat from frozen, increase the cooking time slightly.
Popular Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor to your nuggets, making them even more delicious. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What can I substitute if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
How do I make these nuggets less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce in the recipe. You can also mix it with some melted butter to tone down the heat and create a creamy sauce.
Can I bake these nuggets instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake these nuggets in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the air fryer will give you a crispier texture.
The Takeaway
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets are not just a meal; they’re an experience. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering with friends. The best part is that they are easy to make, healthier than traditional fried nuggets, and packed with flavor. You can customize the spice level and enjoy various dipping sauces, making them versatile and fun to eat. So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready for a delicious treat that everyone will love!
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing your 1-inch pieces of chicken breast in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This will be the crispy coating that takes your nuggets to the next level.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Take each piece, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, and then coat it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch. Repeat until all chicken pieces are coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the nuggets will cook evenly and achieve that crispy exterior.
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through for even cooking.
- While the nuggets are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce until well combined. This spicy, buttery sauce is what gives your nuggets that classic buffalo flavor.
- Once the chicken nuggets are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Immediately toss them in the buffalo sauce until well coated. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer for even cooking.
- Preheating is essential for achieving a crispy texture.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce.
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