Crunchy, juicy, and packed with flavor – these gluten free chicken nuggets will revolutionize your weeknight dinners! Imagine biting into golden-brown nuggets so crispy no one would guess they’re both gluten-free AND dairy-free. The best part? Your air fryer does all the hard work, delivering restaurant-quality results in just 20 minutes flat.
I first developed this recipe when my niece – who has celiac disease – came over for a playdate. The store-bought gluten-free nuggets I served were disappointingly bland and soggy. That’s when I vowed to create a homemade version that would satisfy even the pickiest little eaters. After dozens of tests (and many happy kid taste-testers), this perfected recipe was born!
If you loved my Crispy Gluten-Free Fried Chicken (one of our most popular recipes!), you’ll adore this easier, healthier air fryer version. These nuggets deliver all the crunch without the mess of deep frying. Ready to make nuggets so delicious they’ll become your new freezer staple? Let’s get cooking!
What Are Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets?
Who decided chicken nuggets are just for kids? (Okay, I’ll admit – my inner 8-year-old still gets excited for nugget night!) But seriously, why settle for expensive, preservative-packed frozen nuggets when you can make gluten free chicken nuggets at home that are crispier, juicier, and free from mystery ingredients?
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach – well in my house, the way to EVERYONE’S heart is through perfectly crispy nuggets. These little bites prove that gluten-free eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. The secret? A clever blend of gluten-free panko and almond flour that creates an irresistible golden crust in the air fryer.
Ready to make nuggets that’ll have your family begging for seconds? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Magic – The air fryer gives these nuggets an irresistible crunch without deep frying, while keeping the chicken incredibly juicy. No more sad, soggy nuggets!
- Budget-Friendly – Homemade nuggets cost about 60% less than store-bought gluten-free versions. That’s more money for… well, more chicken!
- Customizable – Add smoked paprika for a kick, nutritional yeast for cheesiness, or keep it classic. Dip them in honey mustard, BBQ, or dairy-free ranch!
If you’re a fan of my Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders, you’ll go crazy for these bite-sized nuggets. They’re perfect for meal prep, kids’ lunches, or when that 3pm snack attack hits. Trust me – one batch and you’ll never go back to the frozen stuff!
How to Make Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
Quick Overview
✅ Prep Time: 10 mins
✅ Cook Time: 10 mins
✅ Total Time: 20 mins
✅ Servings: 4
✅ Key Features: Crispy, dairy-free, kid-approved, air fryer easy
Key Ingredients
(High-quality ingredient photo inserted here)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1″ pieces)
- 1 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup almond flour (or GF all-purpose flour)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Avocado oil spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
(Step photos inserted throughout)
- Prep the Chicken
Cut chicken into even 1-inch pieces. Pro tip: Pat VERY dry with paper towels – this is the secret to maximum crispiness! - Create Your Dredging Stations
- Bowl 1: Whisk egg and almond milk
- Bowl 2: Mix GF panko, almond flour, and all spices
- Bread Like a Pro
Dip each piece in egg mix, then roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on parchment-lined tray. - Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange nuggets in single layer in air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed). Lightly spray with oil. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. - Serve Immediately
Best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer with your favorite dipping sauce!
What to Serve With Your Nuggets
- Dips:
- Dairy-free ranch (mix mayo with dill, garlic powder, and almond milk)
- Spicy honey mustard (2 parts mustard to 1 part honey + pinch of cayenne)
- Smoky BBQ sauce
- Sides:
- Crispy air fryer sweet potato fries
- Roasted broccoli with lemon
- Simple kale salad with lemon tahini dressing
- For Kids:
- Apple slices
- Cucumber sticks
- Dairy-free mac and cheese
Pro Tips for Nugget Perfection
✔ Chill Before Cooking – After breading, chill nuggets 10 minutes to help coating adhere better
✔ Parchment Trick – Line air fryer with perforated parchment for easy cleanup
✔ Double Batch – Make extra and freeze for quick meals later
✔ Flavor Boost – Add 1 tbsp nutritional yeast to breading for “cheesy” flavor
✔ Even Cooking – Cut chicken pieces same size so they cook evenly
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3-4 days
Freezer: Freeze cooked nuggets on baking sheet, then transfer to bag for up to 3 months
Reheating:
- Air fryer: 375°F for 3-4 minutes (from fridge) or 6-8 minutes (from frozen)
- Oven: 350°F for 8-10 minutes on wire rack
Final Thoughts
These gluten free chicken nuggets have become a weekly staple in my house – they’re that good! Whether you’re cooking for kids with food sensitivities, hosting game night, or just craving some childhood nostalgia, this recipe delivers every time.
Pro Tip: Double the batch and freeze some for those “I don’t want to cook” nights – they reheat beautifully!
Made this recipe? Tag @PureSansGluten on Instagram – we love seeing your creations! And if you’re hungry for more easy gluten-free meals, try our fan-favorite Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders next!
