Here’s your delicious Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets recipe with extra details for easy reference. This is a fantastic way to get that signature Chick-fil-A flavor at home!
Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets
Servings: 4-6 (as an appetizer or side)
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 1.5 hours (including marinating time)
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Tip: Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness. - 1 cup dill pickle juice
The secret to Chick-fil-A’s unique flavor and tenderizing effect! - 1 large egg
Combines with milk to help the coating stick. - 1 cup milk
Creates a light coating when combined with egg and flour. - 1 cup all-purpose flour
For a crispy, golden coating. - 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Adds a subtle sweetness to the coating. - 1 teaspoon paprika
Gives a hint of spice and color. - 1 teaspoon pepper
Adds a mild kick. - 1 teaspoon salt
Balances flavors in the coating. - Peanut oil or canola oil, for frying
Peanut oil gives an authentic Chick-fil-A flavor; canola oil works well too.
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces and pickle juice. Cover and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and tenderize the chicken. Tip: Don’t skip this step—pickle juice is key to the flavor!
- Prepare the Coating Mixtures
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Set aside.
- In a large zip-top bag, combine the flour, confectioners’ sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Coat the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and drain off the pickle juice. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the chicken pieces and stir to coat.
- Drain off any excess milk mixture, then add the chicken pieces to the flour mixture in the zip-top bag. Seal the bag and shake to coat each piece thoroughly with the seasoned flour mixture.
- Fry the Nuggets
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1-2 inches of peanut or canola oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a small piece of flour-coated chicken into the oil; if it bubbles and floats, the oil is ready.
- Working in batches, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Flip the pieces halfway if using a skillet.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve
- Serve the nuggets warm with your favorite dipping sauces like Chick-fil-A sauce, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips for Success
- Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature (around 350°F) is essential for crispy, evenly cooked nuggets.
- Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it will lower the oil temperature and make the nuggets soggy.
- Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, then back into the milk mixture, and again into the flour mixture before frying.
Enjoy these delicious homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets with family and friends!