9 Hacks to Make Chicken Nuggets Crispy Without Frying
You don’t need a deep fryer—or extra oil—to get crispy chicken nuggets at home. Whether you’re working with frozen nuggets, homemade breaded chicken, or leftovers that need reviving, these simple hacks help deliver that crave-worthy crunch using everyday kitchen tools.
Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer
Starting with a hot cooking surface makes a big difference. Preheating helps the breading crisp up quickly instead of slowly absorbing moisture.
Place Nuggets on a Wire Rack
Elevating nuggets on a rack allows heat to circulate underneath, preventing the bottoms from steaming. This simple trick works especially well in the oven.
Lightly Spray with Cooking Oil
A quick mist of cooking spray adds just enough fat to help browning without turning nuggets greasy. This works for both frozen and homemade versions.
Flip Halfway Through Cooking
Turning nuggets mid-cook exposes all sides to direct heat, ensuring even crispiness instead of one soft side.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Homemade Nuggets
Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, creating a crunchier coating without extra oil.
Add Cornstarch to the Coating
Mixing a small amount of cornstarch into your breading helps absorb moisture and creates a crispier texture when baked or air-fried.
Cook at a Slightly Higher Temperature
Raising the temperature by 25°F (while watching closely) can help nuggets brown better without drying out the inside.
Avoid Foil and Parchment Paper
While convenient, liners trap steam. Cooking nuggets directly on a rack or perforated tray allows moisture to escape.
Reheat Leftovers in the Air Fryer
Skip the microwave. A few minutes in the air fryer or oven brings leftover nuggets back to life with a crispy finish.
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