Short Answer:

To prevent chicken nuggets from drying out in an air fryer, cook them at the recommended temperature of 180–200°C (360–400°F) for the proper time, usually 10–12 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the chicken dry and tough.

Shaking or flipping the nuggets halfway through cooking ensures even heat distribution, keeping the inside tender while the exterior becomes crispy. Using a light spray of oil can also help retain moisture and improve texture without making the nuggets greasy.

Detailed Explanation:

Preventing Nuggets from Drying Out

Proper Temperature and Time
Cooking at the correct temperature is key to preventing dry nuggets. Air fryers cook quickly, and temperatures between 180–200°C (360–400°F) allow the nuggets to become golden and crispy outside while heating the interior without drying it. Overcooking at high temperatures or extending the cooking time unnecessarily can lead to moisture loss, making the chicken dry.

Even Cooking with Shaking or Flipping
Shaking or flipping nuggets midway ensures all sides are exposed to hot air evenly. Uneven cooking can result in some nuggets being overcooked on one side while the other side remains undercooked. Midway redistribution of heat keeps the interior juicy and the exterior crispy, maintaining the desired texture.

Avoid Overcrowding the Basket
Placing too many nuggets in the air fryer basket restricts airflow. Poor circulation can cause uneven cooking, forcing some nuggets to cook longer than others, which can dry them out. Arrange nuggets in a single layer with space in between for even heat distribution.

Optional Oil Spray
Lightly spraying nuggets with a small amount of oil helps lock in moisture and enhances crispiness. It creates a barrier on the surface, preventing the exterior from becoming too dry while the inside cooks properly. Minimal oil is sufficient; too much can make the nuggets greasy.

Monitoring and Checking Doneness
Check nuggets a few minutes before the recommended cooking time ends. Remove them once they are golden and hot inside. Using a food thermometer can ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F), which is safe but avoids overcooking that dries out the meat.

Resting After Cooking
Allowing nuggets to rest for 1–2 minutes after air frying helps retain juices. This brief resting period lets internal moisture redistribute, keeping the nuggets tender and flavorful.

Conclusion:

Preventing nuggets from drying out in an air fryer involves cooking at 180–200°C for the proper time, shaking or flipping midway, avoiding overcrowding, and optionally using a light oil spray. Monitoring doneness and allowing a short resting period ensures golden, crispy, and juicy chicken nuggets every time without losing moisture.