Step 1
On a cutting board, cut the chicken breast into 3/4-inch pieces. You should get approximately 20-24 chicken nuggets depending on the size of your chicken breast.
Step 2
Sprinkle ¼ tsp of salt evenly over the chicken pieces. Next sprinkle the flour over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3
In a small bowl add the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and ½ tsp salt. Mix seasoning into the breadcrumbs. Next add the cooking oil to the breadcrumbs and stir until the oil is evenly coating the breadcrumbs. It should look like damp sand.
Step 4
In another small bowl add ½ cup buttermilk
Step 5
Now line up the chicken, buttermilk, and breadcrumbs. Using tongs or your hands, begin to coat the chicken nugget pieces by first dipping them in the buttermilk, then transfer them to the breadcrumbs and coat them evenly with the breadcrumbs. Set the coated chicken pieces to the side.
Step 6
Arrange the chicken nuggets in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overcrowding. Set the temperature at 200 °c for 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. At the halfway point, flip the nuggets to cook the other side. If necessary, cook your chicken nuggets in two separate batches.
Step 7
Remove chicken nuggets from the air fryer and let cool for 3-5 minutes, then serve with your favourite dipping sauce.