Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets
There’s something undeniably special about the Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets. Growing up, these little bites of joy were a staple in my household, and they always brought a smile to my face. I vividly remember the excitement of family movie nights, where we would gather around with trays of warm nuggets, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, dipped in a sweet and tangy sauce that made them irresistible. The moment you take that first bite, it’s like a nostalgic trip back to simpler times.
This recipe brings that special magic home. The secret lies in marinating the chicken in a mixture of milk and dill pickle juice, giving it that unique tenderness and flavor that sets these nuggets apart from any others. And let’s not forget the crispy coating that you can’t help but love! Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, a meal, or a party appetizer, the Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets are bound to please everyone at the table.
So, grab your ingredients and let’s recreate this fast-food favorite right in your kitchen. It’s easier than you think, and I promise, your taste buds will thank you!
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 15 mins
60 mins
15 mins
Medium
350 kcal
25 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Whisk, Food Processor, Frying Pan
Why We Love This Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets
Family Favorite
There’s a reason why the Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets are beloved by so many. They’re not just food; they’re a memory. Sharing these with family during game nights or celebrations adds a layer of warmth that only home cooking can bring.
Flavorful Marinade
The marinade, which includes chicken soaked in milk and dill pickle juice, is the key to achieving that unique flavor. It tenderizes the meat while infusing it with a subtle tang that sets these nuggets apart.
Crispy Coating
The combination of flour, breadcrumbs, and spices creates an ultra-crispy coating. When fried to perfection, each nugget offers a satisfying crunch that complements the juicy chicken inside.
Versatile and Fun
These nuggets are incredibly versatile. Serve them with your favorite sauces, or toss them on a salad for a heartier meal. Kids and adults alike will love them!
Perfect for All Occasions
From casual lunches to festive gatherings, Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets fit right in. They’re a fun finger food and a great way to keep everyone happy.
Easy to Make
Despite their deliciousness, these nuggets are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and some care, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets Ingredients
To create the best Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets, it’s all about the right combination of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the flavors and textures that make these nuggets so addictive. The chicken is the star, but the coating and the special marinade are equally important!
- 2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The base of our nuggets, providing lean protein that cooks beautifully.
- 1 large egg, beaten: This helps the coating adhere to the chicken, creating a perfect crust.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the chicken.
- 1/2 cup dill pickle juice (optional or use more milk): The secret ingredient for tangy flavor and extra tenderness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crispy coating.
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs: Adds texture and crunch.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Balances the flavors and enhances the browning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides color and a hint of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon white pepper: Adds a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder: For an extra kick of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Peanut oil or canola oil for frying (about 2 cups depending on pan size): Necessary for frying to achieve that crispy texture.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: For the dipping sauce, creamy and rich.
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard: Adds tanginess to the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons honey (use maple syrup if allergic): Sweetens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce (optional): For extra flavor in the dipping sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always important for seasoning.
Cooking Method for Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets
Making your own Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets is a delightful experience that combines the joy of cooking with the satisfaction of indulging in a favorite comfort food. Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to crispy, golden nuggets in no time!
Start by preparing your sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, honey, and BBQ sauce (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. Once done, set it aside in the fridge to chill while you prepare the nuggets. This waiting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Next, in a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with milk and pickle juice (if you’re using it) along with the beaten egg. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour. If possible, let it marinate overnight for the best results.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the breadcrumb mixture. In a food processor, add the breadcrumbs and pulse them a few times until they’re finely crumbled. This gives a more even coating on your nuggets.
In a large shallow bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, powdered sugar, paprika, white pepper, chili powder, and salt. Stir everything together until well-blended. This mixture will create that signature crispy coating.
Now, it’s time to heat the oil. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough peanut oil or canola oil to fry the nuggets. You need about 2 inches of oil for frying. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, signifying that it’s hot enough for frying.
Once the oil is hot, take the marinated chicken pieces, one at a time, and dip them into the flour mixture until thoroughly coated. Make sure to shake off any excess flour before placing them in the hot oil.
Fry the coated chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they’re evenly golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Once cooked, carefully transfer the fried chicken pieces to a cooling rack to allow excess oil to drain. This step is crucial for maintaining their crunchiness.
Finally, serve your homemade Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets immediately, alongside the chilled dipping sauce. Enjoy the delightful crunch and tender chicken that everyone loves!
Things Worth Knowing
- Oil Temperature: It’s crucial to ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot, the nuggets can become greasy instead of crispy.
- Marination Time: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but overnight is even better!
- Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, which helps achieve that perfect golden brown color.
- Cooling Rack: Always place fried nuggets on a cooling rack to keep them crispy; don’t let them sit in the oil or on a plate where they can steam.
Change It Up
If you’re looking to customize your Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets, here are some fun ideas to switch things up!
- Storage: To store leftovers, place cooled nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked nuggets for a quick meal later. Just coat them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a zip-top bag.
- Pairing: Serve these nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or a spicy aioli for different flavor experiences.
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture, such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper, to create a unique flavor profile.
- Healthier Option: For a lighter version, try air frying the nuggets instead of deep frying for a lower-fat alternative.
- Family Style: Set up a nugget bar during parties where guests can choose their own sauces and sides to create their personalized plate.
How to Enjoy Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets
When it comes to savoring your homemade Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets, the serving options are endless. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
- Party Appetizers: Perfect for gatherings, serve these nuggets with a selection of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.
- Lunch or Dinner: Pair them with a fresh salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal that satisfies any craving.
- Game Day Treat: These nuggets are fantastic for game day. Set up a platter and watch as everyone digs in!
- Kid-Friendly Meals: Kids love these nuggets! Serve them with fruit or veggies on the side to create a balanced meal.
- On the Go: Pack them in lunch boxes for a delicious, portable meal that’s sure to please.
- Seasonal Pairings: In the warmer months, serve them with a refreshing coleslaw or a light citrus salad for a bright, tasty contrast.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets recipe is a delicious way to recreate a fast-food favorite at home. With a crispy coating and tender chicken, they become a perfect snack, meal, or party food. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of making something so tasty from scratch. Your family and friends will undoubtedly love them, and you’ll never want to go back to store-bought nuggets again!
Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl whisk together all the sauce ingredients and set aside in the fridge.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken with milk, pickle juice (if using), and the beaten egg. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour or better overnight.
- Add the breadcrumbs to a food processor and pulse a few times.
- In a large shallow bowl combine flour with breadcrumbs, powdered sugar, paprika, white pepper, chili powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil.
- Once the oil is hot, dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture and then place in the pan.
- Work in batches, careful to not overcrowd the pan. Cook chicken until evenly golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Transfer fried chicken pieces to a cooling rack.
- Serve immediately with honey mustard sauce.
