These delicious Chick-fil-a grilled chicken nuggets are easy to make at home! They are juicy, tender pieces of chicken, marinated and grilled to perfection, just like the original.
Making these nuggets means you can enjoy them anytime, and let’s be real, they taste amazing with dipping sauce! I like to serve them with honey mustard—it’s a game-changer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here for their lean meat and quick cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using chicken thighs for more flavor, or even turkey breast as a substitute.
Dill Pickle Juice: This ingredient is key for giving the chicken its signature taste. If you don’t have dill pickle juice, try using lemon juice or vinegar with a pinch of dill for a similar tangy flavor.
Milk: Whole milk provides a rich base for the batter. You can swap it for buttermilk for added tanginess, or use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter version if needed.
Flour: All-purpose flour forms the crispy coating. If you prefer gluten-free options, you could use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just note that it might alter the texture slightly.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder add flavor to your nuggets. Feel free to mix things up by adding Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of chili powder for more kick. I love to use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor!
How Do You Get the Perfect Coat on Your Chicken Nuggets?
The coating on your chicken nuggets is important for great texture and flavor. Here’s how to make sure your coating sticks well and fries up nicely:
- Start by marinating the chicken. This helps to infuse flavor and keep the meat tender.
- Pat the chicken dry after marinating. Removing excess moisture helps the coating adhere better.
- When mixing the milk and egg, whisk until well combined. This helps create a thick batter that clings to the chicken.
- Dip each chicken piece first in the milk mixture to wet it, then dredge in the flour mixture. Press the flour mixture down gently to ensure a good coat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. This allows even cooking and crispiness; cook in batches if necessary.
Following these tips will help you achieve that crispy, flavorsome coating you’re aiming for!
How to Make Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets (Copycat)!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 cup dill pickle juice
For the Batter:
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-40 minutes for marinating and cooking. Make sure to allow 30 minutes to 1 hour for the chicken to marinate, which adds flavor and tenderness. The cooking time is roughly 10-12 minutes for golden, crispy nuggets!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour in the dill pickle juice. Mix it around so all the chicken is coated, then cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will help to tenderize and flavor the chicken!
2. Prepare the Coating:
While the chicken is marinating, grab a shallow bowl and mix together the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like things spicy). Make sure everything is well combined!
3. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the wet mixture that helps our coating stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
After the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge and pat it dry gently with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Next, dip each piece of chicken into the milk and egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, and then dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is nice and coated!
5. Cook the Nuggets:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the coated chicken nuggets in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve:
After cooking, place the nuggets on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve your delicious chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces, like honey mustard or barbecue sauce.
Enjoy your homemade Chick-fil-A style grilled chicken nuggets!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just ensure they are also boneless and cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Dill Pickle Juice?
If you don’t have dill pickle juice on hand, you can use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice mixed with a bit of water to mimic the tangy flavor. A tablespoon of Dijon mustard added to the mix can also enhance the taste, making it a great alternative!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help maintain their crispiness, or use the microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Make These Nuggets in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in the basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
