Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets

Skip the drive-through and whip up these copycat Chick Fil A chicken nuggets right at home. This recipe gives you juicy, tender nuggets with a perfectly golden crisp coating that your whole family will love. Marinating the chicken in a quick pickle juice and milk mixture tenderizes the meat and adds subtle tang, while a lightly sweetened seasoning blend creates that signature Chick Fil A flavor. Once fried to a golden brown in peanut oil, these nuggets become irresistibly crispy and juicy.

These nuggets have become a regular in my house, especially when my kids get home from school starving. I first made them for a weekend movie night, and now they ask for them weekly because they just can’t get enough of that crispy outside and tender inside.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: for tender, lean bites
• Dill pickle juice: from a jar to break down the chicken fibers and add tang
• Milk: to help the brine penetrate and keep the chicken moist
• Allpurpose flour: forms a light base for the coating
• Breadcrumbs: create a crunchy, golden crust
• Garlic powder: adds savory depth
• Paprika: brings mild smokiness and color
• Salt and pepper: balance flavors and enhance seasoning
• Powdered sugar: gives a subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the crust
• Baking powder: lightens the coating for extra crispiness
• Peanut oil: recommended for frying to get authentic flavor and high smoke point

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Not applicable for this recipe but you will prepare the seasoning blend in a bowl ahead.

Prepare the Brine:

Combine the milk and dill pickle juice in a bowl or ziptop bag. Cut the chicken breasts into bite sized nuggets and submerge in the brine. Let marinate for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature to tenderize without overmarinating.

Mix the Coating:

In a separate bowl, combine the allpurpose flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, powdered sugar, and baking powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and sugar.

Coat the Chicken:

Remove chicken pieces from the brine, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoning mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well. Set aside on a wire rack or plate.

Heat the Oil:

Pour peanut oil into a deep fryer or heavybottomed pot, heating it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an oil thermometer to maintain consistent temperature, which is key for even cooking and golden color.

Fry the Nuggets:

Working in small batches, gently lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the nuggets turn a deep golden brown and are cooked through. Avoid overcrowding to keep oil temperature steady.

Drain and Cool:

Remove nuggets with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil and stay crispy. Avoid paper towels which can cause sogginess.

Serve Warm:

Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces like copycat Chick Fil A sauce, ranch, or classic ketchup.

Powdered sugar might sound unusual but it really makes a difference. It caramelizes during frying and draws out a sweet note that plays beautifully against the smoky paprika and savory garlic powder. This little touch was a game changer for me because it perfectly mimics that famous Chick Fil A flavor. One of my fondest memories of these nuggets is making a big batch for a birthday party, watching both kids and adults go back for seconds and thirds without a pause.

Storage Tips

Once cooked and cooled, store nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep them crispy when reheating, warm them in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave. For longer storage, freeze cooled nuggets in single layers inside freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have peanut oil, use canola or vegetable oil though peanut oil adds a more authentic flavor and better frying performance. You can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko for a different crispy texture. If you lack powdered sugar, a small amount of regular granulated sugar can work, but powdered dissolves better and avoids graininess.

Serving Suggestions

These nuggets pair wonderfully with waffle fries and coleslaw for that true Chick Fil A experience. They also taste great tossed in wraps with fresh greens or served atop a salad for a lighter twist. And don't forget a dipping sauce like honey mustard, BBQ or homemade Chick Fil A sauce for extra flavor.

Serve these nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce for the best experience. They reheat well in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What marinade makes the chicken juicy?

A quick brine using pickle juice and milk tenderizes the chicken, creating a juicy interior without overpowering flavors.

→ Why is powdered sugar used in the seasoning?

Powdered sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices and enhances the golden crust after frying.

→ What oil is best for frying the nuggets?

Peanut oil is ideal for frying, as it maintains consistent heat and gives the nuggets a perfect crispy, golden finish.

→ How long should nuggets be fried?

Fry the coated chicken pieces for 3 to 5 minutes until they reach a deep golden brown color while ensuring the oil temperature stays near 350°F.

→ Can these nuggets be frozen and reheated?

Yes, once cooled, nuggets can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat by baking or using an air fryer to restore crispness.