Air Fried Chicken Nugget Patties: A Quick and Delicious Snack

Chicken nugget patties are a perfect go-to recipe when you’re craving something quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Made with simple ingredients like canned chicken, mozzarella cheese, and an egg, these patties are not only convenient but also pack a punch of flavor. Cooking them in the air fryer ensures that they turn out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried nuggets. These patties are great for meal prep, snacks, or even a light dinner when paired with your favorite sugar-free dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 10 ounces of canned chicken (drained)
  • 1 cup of mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 1 beaten egg
  • Seasonings of choice (e.g., garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper)

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 patty (assuming recipe makes 4 patties)
  • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Sugars: 0g

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by draining the canned chicken thoroughly. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to help the patties hold together during cooking. Once drained, use a fork to break apart the chicken into small, shredded pieces. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Combining the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. The mozzarella acts as a binding agent, giving the patties a deliciously cheesy texture. Add your seasonings of choice to the mixture. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper are classic choices, but feel free to get creative with your spices. You could add a bit of cayenne for heat or some Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.

Step 3: Forming the Patties

Once the mixture is well-combined, use your hands to form it into patties. You can make them as large or small as you like, but keep in mind that smaller patties will cook faster and tend to be crispier. Aim for a uniform size and thickness to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the patties cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown, crispy exterior.

Step 5: Cooking the Patties

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken patties in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Cook the patties at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides get evenly browned and crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your patties, so keep an eye on them.

Step 6: Checking for Doneness

The patties are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Step 7: Serving the Chicken Nugget Patties

Once cooked, remove the patties from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. These patties are best enjoyed with a selection of sugar-free dipping sauces, such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or a tangy honey mustard. They also pair well with a side of veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success:

  1. Seasoning Variations: Feel free to customize the seasonings based on your preferences. For an Italian flavor, add some oregano and basil. If you like it spicy, a dash of cayenne or hot sauce in the mixture can add a nice kick.
  2. Cheese Substitutes: While mozzarella is a great choice for its melting qualities, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
  3. Binding the Patties: If your mixture seems too loose, you can add a tablespoon of almond flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the patties together. This can be particularly helpful if you’re using fresh chicken instead of canned.
  4. Crispier Patties: For an extra crispy exterior, lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray before cooking. This will help them brown more evenly.

These chicken nugget patties are a great source of protein, making them a satisfying and nutritious option for any meal. By using an air fryer, you significantly reduce the amount of oil needed, cutting down on unhealthy fats without sacrificing flavor or texture. Additionally, using sugar-free sauces keeps the overall carbohydrate content low, making this recipe suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Serving Suggestions:

These chicken nugget patties are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main dish with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. They’re also perfect as a snack or appetizer, especially when paired with a variety of dipping sauces. For a fun twist, try making smaller, bite-sized patties and serve them as part of a party platter with toothpicks for easy eating.

Storage and Reheating:

If you have leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheating in the air fryer helps maintain their crispy texture, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Air fried chicken nugget patties are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier twist. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these tasty patties in no time. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main meal, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, with the added benefit of being air-fried, you can enjoy all the flavor and crunch without the guilt.