Are you on the hunt for the ultimate crispy, golden chicken nuggets without the fuss of deep-frying? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! This kitchen marvel transforms humble frozen nuggets into a delectable treat with a satisfying crunch, making it the go-to method for quick snacks, easy lunches, or even a fun dinner. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best frozen chicken nuggets for air fryer cooking?
We’ve done the legwork for you! We’ve rounded up seven top contenders, evaluating them on taste, texture, ingredients, and how wonderfully they perform in an air fryer. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy this classic comfort food.
Why the Air Fryer is Your Nugget’s Best Friend
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s talk about why the air fryer is such a game-changer for frozen chicken nuggets. It uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly, giving it that desired crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. This means less oil, less mess, and often, a faster cooking time than a traditional oven. Plus, who can resist that perfect, golden-brown finish?
Our Top Picks for the Best Frozen Chicken Nuggets for Air Fryer
Let’s get to the good stuff! Here are our reviews of the top frozen chicken nuggets that truly shine when air-fried.
1. Tyson Air Fried Perfectly Crispy Chicken Nuggets, 25 Oz.
If “crispy” is your middle name, these nuggets are practically made for you. Tyson specifically designed these nuggets to achieve that delightful crunch, and they live up to the promise, especially in an air fryer. They come out golden, incredibly crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, tasting like they’ve been freshly fried but with the convenience of an air fryer. They’re a fantastic option for anyone craving that classic fried nugget experience without the guilt or grease.
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Key Features:
- One 25 oz bag of Tyson Frozen Baked Chicken Breast Nuggets
- Made with white meat chicken
- 15g of protein per serving
- Prepare in an air fryer, oven or microwave
- No added hormones or steroids**
- Made with 100% all natural* chicken
- Perfect for parties, watching the game or as part of a meal
- Fully cooked breaded nugget shaped patties with rib meat
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Pros:
- Exceptional crispiness when air-fried
- Great classic chicken nugget taste
- High protein content
- Versatile cooking methods
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Cons:
- May be slightly smaller than some other nugget brands
- Can dry out if overcooked
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User Impressions: Customers consistently rave about the superior crunch these nuggets deliver. Many say they’re the only frozen nuggets they’ll buy for their air fryer because of how perfectly they cook up. They’re a family favorite for their taste and ease of preparation.
See it on Amazon here
2. Tyson Fully Cooked Fun Dinosaur Chicken Nuggets, 29 oz
Make mealtime an adventure with Tyson’s Fun Dinosaur Chicken Nuggets! These aren’t just for kids; anyone who loves a bit of playful nostalgia will appreciate these. Beyond their fun shapes, they offer a solid, consistent chicken nugget experience. When air-fried, they get wonderfully crisp on the outside while staying juicy within, making them a quick and easy solution for busy parents or anyone looking for a fun, convenient snack. The whole grain breading is an added bonus!
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Key Features:
- One 29 oz package of Tyson Fully Cooked Fun Dinosaur Chicken Nuggets
- Frozen chicken nuggets made with all natural, minimally processed chicken raised with no antibiotics ever and no added hormones or steroids
- Breaded chicken with 8 grams of whole grain per serving
- Fully cooked chicken is a ready to eat addition for a quick kids lunch
- Dinosaur chicken nuggets are packed in a resealable bag for easy storage
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Pros:
- Fun shapes are great for kids (and adults!)
- Made with all-natural chicken and no antibiotics ever
- Contains whole grains
- Resealable bag for freshness
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Cons:
- Taste might be a bit plainer for adults seeking stronger seasoning
- Shapes can sometimes break during cooking if not handled gently
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User Impressions: Parents absolutely love these for their kids, citing the fun shapes as a major win for picky eaters. They appreciate the quality ingredients and how effortlessly they crisp up in the air fryer, making lunch or dinner prep a breeze.
See it on Amazon here
3. Tyson Frozen Chicken Nuggets Family Pack, 4 Lb
When you need a serious supply of chicken nuggets, the Tyson Family Pack is your go-to. This substantial 4-lb bag ensures you’ve always got enough on hand for family dinners, unexpected guests, or just when hunger strikes. These classic Tyson nuggets are a dependable choice, offering that familiar savory flavor and a satisfying texture when air-fried. They come out beautifully golden and crunchy, making them a consistent crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
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Key Features:
- One 4 lbs. package of Chicken Nuggets
- Made with 100% all natural chicken
- 11 grams of protein per serving
- Made with white meat chicken
- Chicken raised with no added hormones or steroids
- 0 grams of trans fat per serving
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Pros:
- Excellent value and quantity for families
- Reliable classic Tyson taste and texture
- Good protein content per serving
- No trans fat
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Cons:
- The large bag might take up significant freezer space
- Not specifically formulated for air frying, but still performs well
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User Impressions: This family pack is a staple for many households. Reviewers praise its convenience and the consistent quality of the nuggets. They note that the air fryer truly elevates these everyday nuggets, making them extra crispy and more enjoyable than oven-baked versions.
See it on Amazon here
4. Bell & Evans, Frozen Chicken Nuggets (Raised without…)
For those who prioritize premium ingredients and a more “clean” label, Bell & Evans Frozen Chicken Nuggets are an excellent choice. Raised without antibiotics and flash-fried in organic oil, these nuggets offer a noticeable step up in quality and taste. When cooked in the air fryer, they develop a delicate crispness, and the chicken inside is tender and flavorful, showing that attention to sourcing truly pays off. They might be a bit pricier, but the difference in quality is often worth it for discerning palates.
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Key Features:
- Marinated in water and sea salt
- Breaded in unbleached wheat flour, water, cane sugar, dried yeast, sea salt, black pepper, paprika
- Flash fried in organic expeller pressed soybean oil to set breading
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Pros:
- High-quality, humanely raised chicken without antibiotics
- Clean ingredient list
- Excellent flavor and texture
- Flash-frying helps achieve a great air-fried crisp
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to conventional brands
- Can be harder to find in some grocery stores
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User Impressions: Consumers rave about the superior taste and quality of Bell & Evans nuggets, often calling them the “best” they’ve ever had. They appreciate the commitment to natural ingredients and confirm that the air fryer brings out their best, yielding a truly gourmet nugget experience.
See it on Amazon here
5. Tyson Any’tizers Popcorn Chicken, Frozen Appetizers, 24 oz
While not strictly “nuggets,” Tyson Any’tizers Popcorn Chicken deserves a spot on this list because it’s fantastic in an air fryer! These bite-sized pieces of crispy chicken are incredibly versatile – perfect as an appetizer, a quick snack, or even tossed into salads. The small size means they cook super fast in the air fryer, achieving an enviable crispiness on every surface. They’re seasoned to perfection and incredibly addictive, making them an excellent alternative if you love the idea of a crispy, ready-to-eat chicken piece.
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Key Features:
- One 24 oz package of Tyson Any’tizers Popcorn Chicken
- Frozen chicken made with 100% all natural, minimally processed chicken with no artificial ingredients
- Fully cooked chicken is breaded and seasoned to perfection
- Prepare these frozen appetizers in an oven or microwave
- Fully cooked and ready to eat with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce
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Pros:
- Cooks quickly due to smaller size
- Achieves excellent crispiness in the air fryer
- Versatile for snacks, appetizers, or meals
- Made with natural chicken and no artificial ingredients
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Cons:
- Not traditional “nugget” shape if that’s what you’re strictly looking for
- Can be easy to overcook due to their small size
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User Impressions: Fans love the convenience and the fantastic crunch these popcorn chicken pieces get in the air fryer. They’re praised for being a perfect party snack or a quick bite for game night, with many stating they’re even better than fast-food versions.
See it on Amazon here
6. Applegate, Natural Chicken Nuggets Family Size, 16oz
Applegate is a brand synonymous with natural and humanely raised meats, and their Natural Chicken Nuggets are no exception. For families seeking a cleaner, healthier option without sacrificing taste or convenience, these are a top contender. When air-fried, they develop a lovely golden crust that hints at their wholesome ingredients. The chicken inside is tender and flavorful, demonstrating that “natural” can still mean incredibly delicious. They’re also dairy and casein-free, which is a big plus for many.
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Key Features:
- Applegate, Natural Chicken Nuggets Family Size, 16 oz (Frozen)
- No Antibiotics or Added Hormones
- No Chemical Nitrites or Nitrates
- No Artificial or GMO Ingredients
- Humanely Raised
- Dairy Free, Casein Free
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Pros:
- Commitment to natural, humanely raised, and antibiotic-free chicken
- Free from artificial ingredients, GMOs, dairy, and casein
- Great option for health-conscious families
- Good flavor and texture when air-fried
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Cons:
- Smaller package size for a “family size”
- Premium price point
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User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed by Applegate’s commitment to quality ingredients and ethical sourcing. They appreciate having a healthier nugget option that still tastes great and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, making it a go-to for kids with dietary sensitivities.
See it on Amazon here
7. Earth’s Best Frozen Chicken Nuggets for Kids, 16 Oz
Specifically designed with the little ones in mind, Earth’s Best Organic Frozen Chicken Nuggets are a fantastic choice for toddlers and young children. Made with all white meat, vegetarian-fed chicken raised without antibiotics, and no artificial flavors or colors, parents can feel good about serving these. In the air fryer, they achieve a gentle crispness that’s perfect for small mouths, ensuring they’re easy to chew and enjoy. It’s a convenient and trustworthy option for a quick, healthy meal for your kids.
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Key Features:
- One 16 oz. bag of Earth’s Best Organic Frozen Chicken Nuggets
- No artificial flavors or colors
- All white meat vegetarian fed chicken
- Chicken raised without the use of antibiotics
- For toddlers 2 years and older
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Pros:
- Organic and specifically designed for kids
- No artificial ingredients or antibiotics
- Mild flavor and tender texture
- Easy for little ones to eat
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Cons:
- Smaller bag size
- Flavor profile might be too mild for adult palates
- Higher price compared to generic brands
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User Impressions: Parents consistently praise these nuggets for being a healthy, reliable option for their children. They report that kids love the taste and texture, and the air fryer makes them perfectly crispy without being too hard, which is ideal for younger eaters.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long do you cook frozen chicken nuggets in an air fryer?
A1: Generally, most frozen chicken nuggets cook in an air fryer in about 10-15 minutes at 380-400°F (195-205°C). However, cooking times can vary depending on your air fryer model, the size of the nuggets, and how many you’re cooking. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended cooking instructions on the packaging for the best results, and shake the basket halfway through!
Q2: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for frozen nuggets?
A2: While not strictly necessary for all air fryers, preheating for 3-5 minutes can help ensure more even cooking and a crispier exterior from the start. Some air fryer models recommend it, so check your appliance manual.
Q3: How do I make my air-fried chicken nuggets extra crispy?
A3: To achieve maximum crispiness, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in a single layer if possible, allowing hot air to circulate freely around each nugget. Shaking the basket every 5 minutes also helps with even browning. Some people even lightly spritz the nuggets with cooking oil before frying, but many nuggets are already pre-fried and don’t need it.
Q4: Are air-fried chicken nuggets healthier than deep-fried?
A4: Yes, generally, air-fried chicken nuggets are considered a healthier alternative to deep-fried. Air frying uses significantly less oil, which reduces the fat and calorie content compared to deep-frying. They still offer that satisfying crunch, but without the excess grease.
Q5: Can I cook different brands of frozen nuggets together in the air fryer?
A5: It’s generally best to cook nuggets of similar size and thickness together to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re mixing different brands or types (like standard nuggets and popcorn chicken), monitor them closely as they might have different optimal cooking times.
Q6: What are some good dipping sauces for air-fried chicken nuggets?
A6: The possibilities are endless! Classic choices include ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. For something different, try sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, a homemade garlic aioli, or even a spicy queso dip.
Q7: How do I store leftover air-fried chicken nuggets?
A7: Store any leftover cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat them, the air fryer is still your best bet! Cook them at 350-375°F (175-190°C) for 3-5 minutes until heated through and re-crisped.
Conclusion
Picking the best frozen chicken nuggets for air fryer cooking boils down to your personal preferences for taste, texture, and ingredients. Whether you prioritize ultimate crispiness, all-natural ingredients, or kid-friendly shapes, there’s a perfect option out there for you.
An air fryer truly unlocks the potential of frozen nuggets, delivering a quick, convenient, and deliciously crispy meal or snack every time. So go ahead, grab a bag of your favorite (or a new one to try!) and get ready to enjoy golden-brown perfection!