Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Nuggets

Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Appetizers, Main Courses
Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Nuggets

Welcome to our latest culinary adventure where we’re shaking up the traditional chicken nugget game with a twist that’s both healthier and packed with flavor – Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Nuggets! In this recipe, we’re merging the crispy, comforting allure of chicken nuggets with the nutritional goodness of broccoli, creating a dish that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Gone are the days of deep-fried, guilt-laden snacks. Our air fryer method offers a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic favorite, with the added benefit of hidden veggies. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these nuggets are not just tasty but also a great way to sneak some greens into your family’s diet.

So, whether you’re looking for a healthy snack option, a fun dinner idea, or just a new way to use your air fryer, this Broccoli Chicken Nugget recipe is here to transform your meal times. Stay tuned as we dive into the ingredients and simple steps to create this delicious, family-friendly treat that’s sure to become a new staple in your recipe repertoire!

Healthy and Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Introducing our delightful Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Nuggets, a recipe that promises to add a delicious and nutritious twist to your meal routine. Perfect for serving up to six people, each portion of these nuggets contains just 246 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. For those on the Nutrisystem plan, you’ll be pleased to know that one serving counts as two PowerFuels, one Extra and half of a Vegetable serving in your NuMi app journal.

The ingredients required for this recipe are simple yet wholesome. You’ll need one pound of lean ground chicken as your base, combined with the goodness of two cups of finely chopped, steamed broccoli. To this, add one and a half cups of reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese for that gooey, cheesy delight. The mix also includes a third cup of whole wheat flour, a half teaspoon each of garlic and onion powder for that extra flavor, and black pepper to taste.

The cooking process is as straightforward as the ingredients. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees. Then, take a large bowl and thoroughly mix all the ingredients. Once combined, scoop the mixture and shape it into uniform nugget-sized pieces.

Place these nuggets in the air fryer and cook them for eight to 10 minutes. You may need to repeat this process with the remaining nuggets depending on the size of your air fryer.

Versatile Serving Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Nuggets

These Air Fryer Broccoli Chicken Nuggets are not only scrumptious and healthy, but they also boast incredible versatility when it comes to serving. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, packing a nutritious lunch, or setting up for a cozy movie night, these nuggets fit perfectly into any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

  • Classic Dipping Delight: Serve these nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces. Think traditional ketchup, creamy ranch or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like a bit of heat. The contrast of flavors will be a sure hit.
  • Wrap or Sandwich Filler: Chop up the nuggets and stuff them into wraps or sandwiches. Add some lettuce, tomatoes and a smear of your favorite sauce for a fulfilling meal.
  • Salad Topping: Elevate a simple salad by adding these nuggets as a protein-packed topping. They add a wonderful texture and flavor to a bed of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and your choice of dressing.
  • Kids’ Party Platter: Arrange them on a platter with some colorful veggies and dips for a child-friendly party snack. It’s a great way to encourage kids to enjoy their greens without a fuss.
  • Healthy Meal Prep: These nuggets can be a fantastic component for meal prepping. Pair them with some quinoa, brown rice or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that’s ready to go.
  • Appetizer Charm: Serve them as appetizers at your next dinner party. Skewer each nugget with a toothpick and present them with a dipping sauce for an elegant yet easy starter.
  • Brunch Feature: Add a fun twist to your brunch menu by incorporating these nuggets. They can be a great side dish to your classic brunch staples like scrambled eggs or avocado toast.
  • International Fusion: Experiment with different cuisines by pairing the nuggets with international side dishes. They can go well with Asian-style stir-fried vegetables, Italian pasta salad, or even a Mexican-inspired bean salad.

The beauty of these Air Fryer Broccoli Chicken Nuggets lies in their ability to adapt to various meal types and occasions, making them a reliable and enjoyable option for any culinary setting. Refer to the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more information on counting add-ins.

*Please note that all air fryers cook differently. Before trying any recipe, always refer to the manufacturer safety instructions provided with your specific air fryer.

Servings: 6

Calories per Serving: 246

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels, 1 Extra and ½ Vegetable

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. lean ground chicken
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups broccoli, steamed and chopped fine
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, reduced fat
  • ¹⁄₃ cup whole wheat flour
  • ½ tsp. garlic powder
  • ½ tsp. onion powder
  • Black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well.
  3. Scoop and shape into uniformed nugget size pieces.
  4. Cook in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes. Repeat with remaining nuggets as needed.
  5. *Please note that all air fryers cook differently. Before trying any recipe, always refer to the manufacturer safety instructions provided with your specific air fryer.
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