Description
These crispy air fryer lemon chicken nuggets are bursting with bright lemon flavor, a crunchy panko-Parmesan coating, and a juicy center. Quick, healthy, and kid-approved, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, lunches, or parties.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces; thighs work too)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a large lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free panko works too)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray)
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
- Toss chicken pieces in the marinade. Cover and let sit for at least 10 minutes (up to 30 minutes in the fridge).
- In a separate shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and dried oregano (if using). Mix well.
- Using tongs or a fork, lift each chicken piece from the marinade (let excess drip off), then press into the panko mixture, coating all sides. Place coated nuggets on a baking sheet or plate.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange nuggets in a single layer, not overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again. Nuggets are done when golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If not crisp enough, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Let nuggets cool for 2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket and preheat before cooking. Press the panko coating on firmly for extra crunch. Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Nuggets can be baked at 425°F for 18-20 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5-6 nuggets
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: air fryer, chicken nuggets, lemon chicken, healthy, kid-friendly, panko, quick dinner, gluten-free option