Name: Chick-fil-A Nuggets
Prep time: PT-486750H19M25S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-486750H19M25S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup dill pickle juice; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Vegetable oil, for frying

Chick-fil-A Nuggets are crispy, juicy, and flavorful bite-sized pieces of chicken that have become a beloved fast-food favorite. They’re marinated, breaded, and fried to golden perfection, offering that perfect balance of tenderness and crunch. Making these at home allows me to enjoy that iconic taste anytime without waiting in line.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the signature Chick-fil-A flavor and texture right in my own kitchen. The chicken is tender on the inside with a perfectly seasoned, crispy coating. Plus, the marinade gives it that subtle tang and depth of flavor that makes these nuggets addictive. It’s a great way to treat myself and my family to something special without the fast-food trip.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup dill pickle juice
1 cup milk
1 large egg
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Vegetable oil, for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the dill pickle juice over them. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
In another bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry lightly with paper towels.
Dip each piece of chicken first into the milk and egg mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. For extra crispiness, I double-dip by repeating the milk and flour steps.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry the nuggets in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the nuggets and drain on paper towels. Let them rest a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or sharing with friends. Prep time is roughly 10 minutes plus marinating time, and cooking takes about 15 minutes. Overall, it’s a quick and rewarding recipe that fits well into a busy schedule.

Variations

I like to experiment with this recipe by adding a bit of cayenne pepper to the flour mix for a spicy kick. Another favorite twist is using buttermilk instead of milk for the egg wash, which adds an extra tangy richness. For a gluten-free version, I swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend. If I’m feeling adventurous, I even try oven-baking the nuggets for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover nuggets keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. To reheat, I prefer using an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep the coating crispy. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the nuggets a little soggy.

FAQs

What makes Chick-fil-A nuggets so tender?

The key is marinating the chicken in dill pickle juice, which tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tangy flavor that sets these nuggets apart.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

I recommend using fresh chicken breasts for the best texture, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

Is it necessary to double-dip the chicken?

Double-dipping helps create an extra crispy coating, but if I’m short on time, a single dip still yields delicious results.

Can these nuggets be baked instead of fried?

Yes, baking at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, offers a healthier alternative, though the texture will be slightly different.

What dipping sauces pair well with these nuggets?

I love serving these nuggets with Chick-fil-A sauce, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or classic ranch for variety.

Conclusion

Making Chick-fil-A style nuggets at home is a fun and satisfying way to enjoy a fast-food favorite with the added benefit of knowing exactly what’s in them. With the flavorful marinade, crispy coating, and juicy interior, these nuggets never disappoint. Whether I’m cooking for a quick dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is always a hit.