Keto Chicken Nuggets (Air Fryer or Oven Baked)
These Keto Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and made with a simple pork rind coating instead of breadcrumbs. They're easy to make in the air fryer or oven, naturally low carb and gluten free, and packed with protein. A family-friendly dinner that's perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces.
Servings: 4 Servings
Calories: 289
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Crushed pork rinds
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt use less if your pork rinds are salted
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs beaten (see notes)
- 1 pound Chicken Breasts cut into 1 inch chunks
Instructions
- Pour crushed pork rinds in a shallow bowl and add the seasonings. Mix well. In a separate shallow bowl, add the beaten eggs. Add the chicken pieces to the egg mixture and stir to coat.
- In batches dip the chicken breast pieces into the the pork rinds. Toss to coat. Set aside on a plate.
Air Fryer
- Place the chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer and air fry at 400F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in 2 batches.
Oven Baked
- Preheat the oven to 425F. Bake the nuggets on a baking sheet (use a wire rack for best results). Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
• If your pork rinds are heavily salted, reduce the added salt to prevent the nuggets from becoming too salty.
• For the crispiest texture, cook the nuggets in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or baking sheet.
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for extra juicy nuggets.
• Egg-free option: Replace the eggs with heavy cream. It helps the pork rind coating stick just as well.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 375F for 3 to 5 minutes to bring back the crispy coating.
• These nuggets are naturally low carb, keto friendly, gluten free, and high in protein.
• Nutrition information may vary depending on the brand of pork rinds used.
Nutrition
Calories: 289 | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 11g | Fiber: 0g