Who says you need to give up your favorite fast-food flavors when you want something a little lighter? These Rice Paper Chicken Nuggets are my homemade take on crispy chicken nuggets, with one fun twist: rice paper.
Instead of deep-frying, the nuggets are cooked in the air fryer with just a little oil. The rice paper becomes beautifully crisp, while the chicken stays juicy and the mozzarella melts inside. A quick coating of egg and panko gives them that familiar golden, crunchy finish we all love.
They are simple enough for a quick lunch or dinner, but also make a fun snack when you want something crispy, cheesy, and homemade.
These Rice Paper Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy and cheesy inside, and incredibly fun to make. Chicken breast, melted mozzarella, rice paper, egg, and crunchy panko come together in the air fryer for a lighter homemade take on classic fast food.
Cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and your air fryer. Make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.
Servings 3
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Fast food without the deep fryer
You still get that golden, crispy nugget experience, but these are cooked in the air fryer with only a little oil rather than being deep-fried.
The rice paper makes them extra fun
Rice paper becomes crisp in the air fryer and gives these nuggets a different texture from traditional breadcrumb-coated chicken.
Cheesy center
A little mozzarella tucked inside the chicken makes every bite more satisfying, especially when you serve the nuggets straight from the air fryer.
High in protein
Chicken breast provides most of the protein, with additional protein coming from the egg and mozzarella.
Perfect for dipping
Serve them with ketchup, Greek yogurt garlic dip, sweet chili sauce, or your favorite homemade dipping sauce.
Cut the chicken into small pieces
Keep the chicken pieces relatively small and similar in size so they cook evenly within the short air-frying time.
Don't overfill them
A little mozzarella is enough. Too much cheese can escape during cooking and make the parcels difficult to seal.
Work gently with the rice paper
Rice paper becomes flexible when moistened, but you don't want it soaking wet. A light coating of egg is enough to make it pliable for wrapping.
For extra crunch
Don't skip the panko coating. The combination of rice paper and panko gives these nuggets a particularly satisfying crispy exterior.
Serve immediately
These are at their best straight from the air fryer. The outside is crispiest and the mozzarella is perfectly melted.
Make them your own
Try adding paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, or a little chili to the chicken for extra flavor.
Serve these homemade nuggets with: