Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Pat the chicken cubes completely dry with paper towels to ensure breading adhesion.
  2. In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Set up a breading station with three bowls in this order: cornstarch, beaten eggs, and Panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge 3-4 nuggets in cornstarch and shake off the excess, dip into the egg wash until fully submerged, and then press firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs.
  5. For Air Fryer: Arrange nuggets in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and bake on a parchment-lined tray until golden brown.