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Crispy 3-Ingredient Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets (Keto-Friendly!)


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  • Author: Evelyn Marcella Rivera
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x

Description

These ultra-simple chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and made with just canned chicken, cheese, and egg—perfect for a quick, low-carb snack or meal. Ready in under 20 minutes and naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 large can Chicken (about 12-14 oz, drained I use the big Costco can, shredded or pulsed lightly)
  • 1/3 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (Helps bind and crisps up)
  • 1 large Egg (Beaten)
  • Cooking spray (To grease the air fryer basket)

Instructions

Mix the Nuggets:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine drained chicken, mozzarella, and beaten egg. Stir until a sticky mixture forms.

Shape:

  1. Using a spoon or small scoop, form the mixture into 1–1½-inch nugget shapes. Place on a plate or sheet.

Preheat Air Fryer:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

Air Fry:

  1. Lightly spray the fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange nuggets in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
  2. Spray tops of nuggets with cooking spray.
  3. Air fry for 5 minutes. Flip nuggets, spray again, and cook an additional 4–5 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

  1. Transfer to a plate and let rest 1–2 minutes.
  2. Enjoy plain or with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Variations: Stir in ½ tsp garlic powder or paprika to the mixture for extra flavor.

  • Make-Ahead: Form nuggets and chill on a parchment-lined tray for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

  • Pulp Use: If using canned chicken in water, save the liquid for soups or sauces.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
  • Cuisine: American, Keto-Friendly

Nutrition

  • Calories: 220