Step by step

Method

4 steps

1. 1

   Cut 1 boneless chicken breast into roughly ¾-inch pieces. Sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt, dust with 1 tablespoon flour, and toss until every piece has a thin coating.

2. 2

   Mix 1 cup plain breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons oil. The crumbs should feel like damp sand when squeezed between your fingers. Pour ½ cup buttermilk into a second bowl.

3. 3

   Dip each chicken piece in buttermilk, let the excess drip off, then press it into the crumbs. Set the coated pieces on a plate while the air fryer heats to 400°F.

4. 4

   Cook the nuggets in a single layer for 4 minutes, turn, and cook 4 minutes more. They should be golden and the centers should reach 165°F. Let them cool 3–5 minutes before dipping.