Introduction
If you’ve ever craved the iconic flavor of Chick Fil A nuggets but wanted to enjoy them in the comfort of your own home, you’re in luck. These copycat nuggets are not only easy to make, but they also capture that signature taste that fans adore.
With a crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, these nuggets are perfect for a quick meal or a fun snack. Let’s dive into the ingredients and methods needed to recreate this beloved dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions & Preparation
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with pickle juice. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to two hours.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. Set aside.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the pickle juice and pat dry with paper towels. Dip each piece first into the milk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the nuggets for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the nuggets from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Continue frying the remaining chicken pieces in batches.
- Serve your delicious copycat Chick Fil A nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
FAQs
What can I do if my nuggets are overcooked?
If your nuggets are overcooked, the best remedy is to serve them with a flavorful dipping sauce to help mask the dryness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces.
What if I don’t have pickle juice?
If you don’t have pickle juice, you can substitute it with a mixture of water and a tablespoon of vinegar for a similar tang.
Why are my nuggets not crispy?
Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying, and do not overcrowd the pan which can cause steaming instead of frying.
Can I make a smaller batch of nuggets?
Absolutely! You can easily halve the ingredients to make a smaller batch of nuggets.
What type of oil is best for frying these nuggets?
Vegetable oil is commonly used, but you can also use canola or peanut oil for frying.
How can I add more flavor to the coating?
You can enhance the flavor by adding more spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of sugar to the flour mixture.
Conclusion
These copycat Chick Fil A nuggets are sure to impress your family and friends, bringing the taste of a popular favorite right into your kitchen.
With a simple process and easily accessible ingredients, you can enjoy these crispy delights anytime you have a craving. Happy cooking!
Recipe Card
Delicious Copycat Chick Fil A Nuggets at Home
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with pickle juice. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to two hours.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. Set aside.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the pickle juice and pat dry with paper towels. Dip each piece first into the milk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the nuggets for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the nuggets from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Continue frying the remaining chicken pieces in batches.
- Serve your delicious copycat Chick Fil A nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
