McDonald’s chicken nuggets are a beloved fast food item, enjoyed by people of all ages. While they are quick and convenient, the deep frying method used to prepare them is high in fat and calories. Air frying chicken nuggets is a healthier alternative that produces a crispy, golden exterior and a juicy interior.
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses super heated air to “fry” foods. This method requires little to no oil, resulting in chicken nuggets that are lower in fat and calories compared to their deep fried counterparts. Air frying also means less mess and quick clean up.
Follow this simple guide to learn how to perfectly air fry frozen McDonald’s chicken nuggets from the comfort of your own home. You’ll enjoy the same crispy, delicious taste without all the extra fat and grease.
Ingredients
- Frozen McDonald’s chicken nuggets
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Salt and pepper (optional)
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tongs
Prep the Nuggets
Start by taking the frozen chicken nuggets out of the freezer and allowing them to thaw slightly. Thawing for 10-15 minutes makes it easier to separate any nuggets that may be stuck together.
While the nuggets thaw, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Refer to your air fryer’s instruction manual for exact directions if needed.
Once the nuggets are slightly thawed and easier to handle, separate any that may be stuck together. Spread them out in a single layer on a plate, tray, or rimmed baking sheet. Allow the nuggets to continue thawing for another 5-10 minutes.
Thawing them enough makes them easier to handle and allows them cook more evenly. Don’t let them thaw completely or they may start to get mushy.
Air Fry the Nuggets
Once your air fryer has preheated, spray the fryer basket lightly with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents the nuggets from sticking.
Place the frozen McDonald’s chicken nuggets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation.
Air fry the nuggets for 5 minutes at 400°F. After 5 minutes, open the air fryer and lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with nonstick spray. Using tongs, flip the nuggets over.
Air fry for an additional 5-7 minutes until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the amount of nuggets and your specific air fryer model.
Season the Nuggets
Once air fried to crispy perfection, remove the McDonald’s chicken nuggets from the air fryer. Transfer them to a plate or serve immediately.
Lightly season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired. You can also toss them in your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Tips for Air Frying McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets
- Allow frozen nuggets to thaw slightly for 10-15 minutes before air frying for more even cooking.
- Separate any nuggets that may be stuck together before air frying.
- Preheat air fryer fully before adding nuggets.
- Spray air fryer basket and nuggets lightly with oil for best crispness.
- Don’t overcrowd the nuggets in the basket. Leave space for air circulation.
- Flip nuggets halfway during cooking for an evenly crispy exterior.
- Adjust cooking time as needed based on amount of nuggets and air fryer model.
- Let air fried nuggets cool slightly before eating to avoid burns.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Air Fryer Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about air frying chicken nuggets:
What temperature should I air fry chicken nuggets?
400°F is the ideal temperature to achieve crispy, evenly cooked nuggets.
How long does it take to air fry frozen chicken nuggets?
Expect it to take 10-12 minutes total cooking time, flipping halfway. Thinner nuggets may cook faster than thicker ones.
Can you air fry chicken nuggets from frozen?
Yes, air frying frozen nuggets is easy. Let them thaw slightly first for best results.
Do you have to flip chicken nuggets when air frying?
Flipping the nuggets halfway during air frying ensures they brown evenly on both sides.
Do air fried chicken nuggets taste fried?
Yes, air fried nuggets get crispy and golden brown on the outside while staying juicy on the inside, just like deep fried nuggets.
Nutrition of Air Fried vs. Deep Fried Nuggets
Air frying chicken nuggets instead of deep frying provides some nutritional benefits:
Fat and Calories
Deep fried nuggets absorb large amounts of oil, making them high in fat and calories. Air frying uses little to no oil, significantly reducing the fat and calorie content.
Sodium
Sodium levels are similar between deep fried and air fried nuggets since the sodium is built into the nugget coating.
| Nutrition Facts | Air Fried | Deep Fried |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | 170 |
| Total Fat | 4g | 10g |
| Sodium | 270mg | 290mg |
As shown in the table, air frying can significantly reduce the calories and fat in chicken nuggets compared to deep frying.
Serving Suggestions
McDonald’s style chicken nuggets made right in your air fryer make the perfect quick snack or meal any time of day. Here are some serving ideas:
- For breakfast, serve air fried nuggets alongside scrambled eggs and hashbrowns.
- Pack them in kids’ lunchboxes with fresh fruit and yogurt.
- Enjoy as an afternoon snack with ketchup or honey mustard dipping sauce.
- For dinner, serve nuggets with mac and cheese and green beans.
- Set up a DIY nugget dipping bar with sauces like barbecue, ranch, honey mustard.
The possibilities are endless with these quick and crispy air fried nuggets!
Storing Leftover Nuggets
Air fried chicken nuggets keep well in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container for up 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until hot and crispy.
For longer storage, cooked nuggets can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to serve.
Conclusion
Air frying frozen McDonald’s style chicken nuggets makes enjoying this classic fast food from home quick and easy. Simply thaw, air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air frying provides the same crisp, golden exterior as deep frying without all the extra fat and calories.
Serve your air fried chicken nuggets with all your favorite sauces and sides for a deliciously easy meal the whole family will love. Leftovers also reheat beautifully for instant meals later in the week.