Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
Crispy, tender catfish nuggets made with seasoned breadcrumbs and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This healthier take on fried catfish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- Fresh catfish nuggets 1 pound
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup seasoned flour
- 2 beaten eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray for air fryer
Instructions
- Prepare Catfish: Rinse the catfish nuggets under cold water and pat them dry.
- Marinate: In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Place the catfish nuggets in the marinade and let them soak for 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Set Up Breading Station: In three separate bowls, have seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs (or cornmeal). Season the flour with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Catfish: Remove the nuggets from the marinade. Coat each nugget in flour, dip in the egg wash, then press firmly into the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for a few minutes.
- Cook the Nuggets: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the nuggets in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- Serve: Once golden and crispy, remove and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For the crispiest result, use panko breadcrumbs or a mix of panko and cornmeal.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- You can add more cayenne pepper if you like extra spice.