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Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets Recipe

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4.1 from 49 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 18-20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

Air fryer catfish nuggets are a healthier twist on the classic fried catfish, delivering golden, crispy bites without the excess oil or mess. Perfectly seasoned and coated with panko crumbs, these nuggets cook quickly in the air fryer to achieve a flaky, tender interior and crunchy exterior. Ideal as an appetizer or main course, they’re easy to prepare and bake to perfection in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Catfish Nuggets

  • 2 lbs catfish filets, thawed
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, whisked
  • 1 cup panko crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Catfish: Cut the catfish filets into 1-inch chunks. Lay the pieces on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess liquid, ensuring the coating adheres well.
  2. Set Up Coating Stations: Place the flour in one bowl, whisked eggs in a second bowl, and in a third bowl combine panko crumbs, garlic powder, and salt.
  3. Coat the Nuggets: Dredge each catfish piece first in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip into the egg mixture to coat evenly. Finally, roll each piece in the panko mixture until fully covered for a crispy crust.
  4. Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place the breaded nuggets in a single layer without overcrowding, working in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
  5. Air Fry the Nuggets: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the nuggets for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Nuggets are done when golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the internal temperature to stabilize and the coating to set. Serve warm as an appetizer or main dish.

Notes

  • Preheat your air fryer before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper crisping.
  • Lightly spray the nuggets with non-stick cooking spray before air frying to help the breading crisp up without sticking to the basket.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; space out nuggets evenly to allow hot air circulation and even cooking.
  • Let the nuggets rest after cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://cookinginspirations.com/air-fryer-catfish-nuggets-recipe/