Frozen chicken nuggets are my go-to for a quick and easy meal, but let’s be honest—using the oven sometimes leaves them with that unwanted sogginess. Once I started using the air fryer, I never went back! It’s the best way to cook both uncooked and precooked ones, ensuring they come out perfectly crispy every time. You just place them inside, and without any extra oil, they turn golden brown and perfectly cooked. My kids absolutely love them, and we make them often because they’re so simple yet delicious.
If you want to enhance the experience, pair these with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether it’s classic ketchup or something spicy, the crunchy bite combined with the right flavor is unbeatable. The air-fried texture is what makes the difference—once you try it, you won’t want to cook it any other way. So, if you need a hassle-free way to get your nuggets done fast, the air fryer has got you covered!
Ingredients:
- 1 Box or Pound Frozen Chicken Nuggets
- 1/4 Cup Barbecue Sauce
- 1/4 Cup Ranch Dressing (Optional)
How to Cook Frozen Nuggets in an Air Fryer (Uncooked Nuggets)
Easy Steps to Cook Perfect Nuggets
- Preheat the air fryer to 400℉/206℃. If your fryer does not require this step, you can skip it.
- Place the frozen chicken nuggets in a single and even layer inside the basket or on the wire rack. Make sure to leave enough space so they do not touch each other.
- Air fry for about 5-12 minutes until the nuggets turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165℉.
- Using tongs, carefully remove the cooked nuggets from the fryer.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mustard, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
How to Cook Frozen Nuggets in Air Fryer (Precooked Nuggets)
- Flip the nuggets halfway through the cooking time for the best texture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even cooking.
- Place the nuggets in the basket in a single layer to allow proper airflow.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, making sure they turn golden and crispy.
Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Nuggets
Description
Transform frozen chicken nuggets into perfectly crispy, golden bites using your air fryer—no sogginess, no extra oil. A kid-friendly favorite ready in under 12 minutes!
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Ingredients
How to Cook Frozen Chicken Nuggets in Air Fryer
For Uncooked Nuggets
Preheat air fryer to 400°F/206°C (skip if your model doesn't require preheating).
Arrange frozen nuggets in a single layer in basket/rack (no overlapping).
Air Fry for 5-12 minutes until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F.
Remove with tongs and serve immediately with dipping sauces.
For Precooked Nuggets
Preheat air fryer to 400°F/206°C.
Place nuggets in single layer.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
