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Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Pepper Fish Nuggets

A pile of golden brown, crispy Air Fryer Crispy Fish Nuggets with Lemon Pepper seasoning on a white plate.

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Make quick, crispy fish nuggets using your air fryer seasoned with bright lemon pepper flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs firm white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch nugget shapes
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (oil-based)

Instructions

  1. Pat the fish nuggets completely dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and crisp up.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Whisk the egg and milk together in the second dish. Combine panko breadcrumbs, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third dish.
  3. Dredge each fish nugget first in the flour, shaking off excess.
  4. Dip the floured nugget into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
  5. Press the nugget firmly into the seasoned panko mixture until fully coated. Place coated nuggets on a plate.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the nuggets in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not touch. Work in batches if necessary.
  8. Spray the tops of the nuggets lightly with cooking spray.
  9. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through cooking time. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) and the coating should be golden brown and crisp.
  10. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the nuggets again after flipping them halfway through cooking.
  • If you do not have milk, use water or a non-dairy alternative in the egg wash.
  • Serve these nuggets with a side of tartar sauce or a simple Greek yogurt dip mixed with dill.

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