Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Chicken Nuggets turn a classic comfort food into a high-protein, low-carb snack or main that everyone loves. Thanks to the air fryer and a grain-free coating, you get golden, crunchy nuggets without deep frying or wheat flour.​

These nuggets are perfect for family dinners, game-day platters, or meal-prepped protein you can toss onto salads and bowls. The garlic-Parmesan flavor feels indulgent, but the ingredients stay keto-friendly, making this recipe ideal for Healthy Meal Magic and KetoKitchenPro audiences.​

Why you’ll love these nuggets

• High in protein from chicken and Parmesan, great for satisfying cravings and supporting a low-carb lifestyle.​
• Low in carbs by using almond flour, pork rinds, or low-carb flour alternatives instead of breadcrumbs.​
• Air fryer method keeps them crispy outside and juicy inside with minimal oil.​
• Fun, kid-friendly recipe that also works as a party appetizer with keto dipping sauces.​

Ingredients

For the nuggets:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into nugget-sized pieces)​
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Finely crushed pork rinds or almond flour (or a mix) for the coating​
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Eggs (for dredging)
• Optional: Italian seasoning or dried parsley

For serving:

• Sugar-free ketchup, ranch, garlic mayo, or buffalo sauce​

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prep chicken and coating
   • Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.​
   • In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan, crushed pork rinds or almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional Italian seasoning.​
2. Coat the nuggets
   • Dip each chicken piece in egg, letting excess drip off.
   • Press into the Parmesan coating mixture, ensuring all sides are well covered for maximum crunch.​
3. Arrange in the air fryer
   • Preheat the air fryer to a medium-high temperature and lightly spray the basket with oil.​
   • Arrange nuggets in a single layer without overcrowding; work in batches if needed.​
4. Air fry until crispy
   • Air fry until nuggets are golden and cooked through, flipping halfway and lightly spraying with oil if needed to help crisp.​
   • The coating should be firm and crunchy, and the chicken should reach a safe internal temperature.​
5. Finish with extra Parmesan and serve
   • While still hot, sprinkle nuggets with a little extra grated Parmesan and a pinch of parsley.​
   • Serve with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauces for snacks, or pair with a salad/veggies for a full meal.​

Tips, swaps, and storage

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness if you prefer darker meat.​
• Adjust garlic and Parmesan to taste; more Parmesan gives a richer, saltier crust.​
• Make a buffalo version by tossing cooked nuggets in melted butter and hot sauce.​
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and re-crisp briefly in the air fryer before serving.​