Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets: Delicious and Ready in 25 Minutes

Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets are a delightful treat that brings the rich flavors of Southern cuisine right to your kitchen. These nuggets are perfectly seasoned and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried catfish. Ideal for a quick snack, appetizer, or a main dish, these catfish nuggets are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Air frying catfish nuggets not only reduces the oil content but also ensures that the fish remains tender and flaky inside while achieving a golden, crunchy crust on the outside. The spicy seasoning adds a kick to each bite, making these nuggets irresistible. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor and enjoy a taste of the South in every bite.

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How to make Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets

Prep Time:15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) catfish fillets, cut into nugget-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Dipping sauces (e.g., tartar sauce, ranch)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the catfish pieces and mix until well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove the catfish pieces from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated catfish nuggets in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not touch. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
6. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (65°C).
7. Remove the catfish nuggets from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces.

Enjoy your Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets, a delicious and healthy twist on a Southern classic!