This copycat recipe recreates the magic of Chick-Fil-A’s beloved Chicken Minis: fluffy, buttery rolls paired with crispy chicken and a honey-butter glaze that’s irresistible. Whether for breakfast, dinner, or a snack, these are guaranteed to delight!
Ingredients
For the Minis
- Just Bare Chicken Breast Chunks (or your favorite breaded chicken nuggets)
(Air fryer, frozen, or homemade nuggets work great. Homemade option: use bite-sized chicken pieces breaded with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs seasoned with paprika, salt, and pepper.) - Sister Schubert’s Yeast Rolls (or similar soft, sweet rolls like Hawaiian rolls)
(These rolls mimic the soft, slightly sweet taste of Chick-Fil-A’s signature minis.)
For the Honey Butter Glaze
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust sweetness to taste)
(Optional: Add a pinch of salt for a sweet-salty balance.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- For frozen chicken:
- Air fryer: Preheat to 360°F and cook the Just Bare chicken chunks for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Oven: Follow package instructions (typically bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes).
- Skillet: Heat oil over medium heat and fry chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels.
- If making homemade nuggets:
- Cut chicken into small bite-sized pieces.
- Coat in flour, dip in whisked egg, and then dredge in seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Fry in a skillet with hot oil or bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes until crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
- Preheat the oven according to the Sister Schubert’s Yeast Rolls package instructions.
- Arrange the rolls on a baking tray or their original tin and bake for 3 minutes less than the recommended minimum time.
- This ensures the rolls stay soft and fluffy.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Minis
- Slice each roll down the middle, leaving one side attached to create a pocket (like a hotdog bun).
- Insert a piece of cooked chicken into each roll.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the honey until smooth and combined.
- Taste the glaze and adjust the honey amount to your liking. For an extra rich flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
- Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the rolls with the honey-butter glaze.
- Place the assembled minis back into the oven at 350°F for 2–3 minutes, just enough to warm them through and let the glaze soak in slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with dipping sauces: Serve with Chick-Fil-A sauce, honey mustard, or your favorite ranch dressing for added flavor.
- Breakfast sides: Complement with hash browns, fresh fruit, or scrambled eggs for a hearty morning meal.
- Snack or dinner idea: Pair with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted veggies for a balanced plate.
Tips for Success
- Use quality rolls: Sister Schubert’s Yeast Rolls are a fan favorite because of their soft texture and sweet flavor. Hawaiian rolls are an excellent alternative if needed.
- Homemade nuggets for authenticity: To replicate the Chick-Fil-A flavor, marinate chicken pieces in pickle juice for 1–2 hours before breading and frying.
- Customize the glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or a touch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the chicken and glaze in advance. Assemble and bake the minis when ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love These
- Budget-friendly: A fraction of the cost compared to dining out.
- Quick and simple: Minimal effort with maximum flavor.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, add spices, or swap ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.
These Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Copycats bring the restaurant experience to your home with comfort, flavor, and a personal touch. Serve warm and enjoy the smiles they bring! 😊✨