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Copycat Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe

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3.8 from 9 reviews

This Copycat Chick Fil A Nuggets recipe delivers crispy, tender chicken bites marinated in dill pickle juice for that signature tangy flavor. Coated in a seasoned flour mixture and perfectly fried, these nuggets are a delicious homemade alternative to the fast-food favorite, great for family meals or parties.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 1 cup dill pickle juice

Wet Mixture

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk

Dry Coating

  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Frying

  • Peanut oil or canola oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a medium bowl and cover with dill pickle juice. Refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the tangy flavor and tenderize.
  2. Prepare Chicken for Coating: Remove the chicken from the marinade and drain off the pickle juice thoroughly.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until fully combined. Pour this mixture over the drained chicken pieces, allowing them to soak.
  4. Mix Dry Coating: In a large ziplock bag, add the flour, confectioners’ sugar, paprika, pepper, and salt. Seal the bag and shake to combine all the dry ingredients evenly.
  5. Coat the Chicken: Drain excess milk mixture from the chicken, then add the chicken pieces to the ziplock bag with the flour mixture. Seal and shake vigorously to coat each piece thoroughly.
  6. Heat the Oil: Heat peanut oil or canola oil in a large pan over medium heat or use a deep fryer, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying but not smoking.
  7. Fry the Nuggets: Working in batches, place coated chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry each batch for approximately 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain cooked nuggets on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
  8. Serve: Serve the nuggets immediately while warm with your favorite dipping sauces for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken in pickle juice is key to achieving the authentic Chick Fil A flavor and tender texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • Feel free to substitute peanut oil with canola or vegetable oil if preferred.
  • Leftover nuggets can be reheated in a crisping air fryer or oven to retain their crunchiness.
  • Taste the flour mixture seasoning and adjust salt or spices according to preference for a personalized flavor.