Crispy Zero-Carb Chicken Nuggets (Air Fryer Perfection!)
Craving crispy, juicy chicken nuggets without the carbs? These Crispy Zero-Carb Chicken Nuggets are an absolute game-changer! Made with tender chicken, a savory pork panko coating, and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they’re incredibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for a quick meal, snack, or for the kids, these virtually carb-free, high-protein, and naturally gluten-free nuggets are a delightful addition to your health journey, ready to be enjoyed right here in beautiful Puerto Vallarta!
Yields: 2-3 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
Ingredients:
- 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 8-10 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes or nugget-sized pieces
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Pork Panko (or finely ground pork rinds)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking spray (e.g., avocado oil spray)
- Optional: Your favorite sugar-free or low-carb dipping sauce (e.g., sugar-free ketchup, keto ranch, or sugar-free BBQ sauce)
Equipment:
- Shallow bowl (for egg wash)
- Shallow bowl or plate (for pork panko)
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Small bowl (for mixing seasonings)
Instructions:
- Prep Chicken & Season Coating:
- Pat the chicken breast cubes very dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another shallow bowl or plate, combine the Pork Panko (or ground pork rinds) with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine the seasonings evenly.
- Coat Chicken Nuggets:
- Dip each chicken cube first into the beaten egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
- Then, transfer the egg-coated chicken piece into the seasoned Pork Panko mixture. Press gently to ensure the pork panko adheres well to all sides.
- Place the coated chicken nuggets on a clean plate or cutting board as you work.
- Air Fry:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You will likely need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with cooking spray.
- Cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through (at about 6-7 minutes), until they are golden brown, crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve & Enjoy! Remove the cooked chicken nuggets from the air fryer.
- Serve immediately, tossing with your favorite low-carb sauce if desired, or serve with a side of sugar-free dipping sauce. Enjoy your perfectly crispy, zero-carb chicken nuggets!
Tips for Success:
- Pat Chicken Dry: This is a crucial step! Excess moisture prevents the coating from sticking and getting crispy.
- Fine Pork Panko: Ensure your pork rinds are ground into a fine “panko” consistency for the best coating. A food processor works great.
- Don’t Overcrowd Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping.
- Spray for Crispiness: A light spray of oil on the outside of the coated nuggets helps them get extra crispy in the air fryer.
- Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Custom Seasonings: Feel free to add other spices to your pork panko like onion powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for more flavor.
- Dipping Sauces: Many brands offer sugar-free ketchup, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing that are keto-friendly.Always check labels!
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification:
These Zero-Carb Chicken Nuggets are a delightful addition to your health journey!
- Zero Carb/Extremely Low-Carb: Yes, by using chicken and pork panko as the coating, this recipe is virtually carb-free.
- High Protein: Yes, from the chicken and eggs.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Read on how to prepare Low carb banana Muffins.
