Chicken nuggets cooking times
How long to cook chicken nuggets: 15–18 min in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan), 8–10 min in an air fryer at 200°C and 3–4 min deep-fried at 175°C. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook chicken nuggets
Times are for 10–12 frozen nuggets.
| Method | Time | Heat | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 15–18 min | 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6 | Turn halfway. |
| Air fryer | 8–10 min | 200°C (400°F) | In one layer; shake halfway. |
| Deep-fry | 3–4 min | oil at 175°C (350°F) | – |
Before you start
Cook from frozen.
How to tell it’s done
Crisp, golden and piping hot all the way through.
Food safety: Breaded raw chicken products must be cooked to 74°C (165°F); check the pack says if they’re pre-cooked.
Questions
How long to cook chicken nuggets in the oven?
15–18 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Turn halfway.
How long to cook chicken nuggets in an air fryer?
8–10 min at 200°C (400°F). In one layer; shake halfway.
How long to deep-fry chicken nuggets?
3–4 min in oil at 175°C (350°F).
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.