Copycat Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets Recipe
Succulent, tender grilled chicken chunks marinated in a sweet-savory blend that perfectly replicates the iconic Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets with their distinctive chargrilled flavor and juicy interior.
Ingredients
<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">600g boneless, skinless chicken breasts</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml pickle juice (from dill pickle jar)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons powdered sugar</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon paprika</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon ground black pepper</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">½ teaspoon garlic powder</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">½ teaspoon onion powder</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ teaspoon dried basil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ teaspoon dried parsley</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml lemon juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons olive oil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon honey</li> </ul>
Equipment
<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Grill pan or outdoor grill</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Meat thermometer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Resealable plastic bag</li> </ul>
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Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 3-4 cm cubes. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and set aside. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> In a medium bowl, whisk together the pickle juice, powdered sugar, salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and dried parsley. The pickle juice is the secret ingredient that tenderizes the chicken while adding that distinctive Chick-fil-A flavor profile. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Add the lemon juice, olive oil, and honey to the marinade mixture and whisk until well combined. The acid from the lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken while the honey adds the characteristic subtle sweetness found in the original recipe. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. Transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag or covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours will yield the most flavorful results. The longer marinating time allows the meat to fully absorb the flavors. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> When ready to cook, preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat or prepare an outdoor grill to medium-high heat (around 200-230°C). If using a grill pan, brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken pieces on the hot grill, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure proper heat circulation. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Grill the chicken nuggets for about 4-5 minutes on the first side until they develop nice grill marks and begin to turn opaque around the edges. Flip each piece and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C and the juices run clear. Be careful not to overcook as this will dry out the chicken. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Remove the grilled nuggets from the heat and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier nuggets. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or the classic Chick-fil-A sauce. </li> </ol>
Chef’s Notes
A few helpful details for making this recipe.
Why is pickle juice essential in grilled chicken nugget marinades?
Pickle juice contains vinegar and salt that work as natural tenderisers, breaking down tough proteins in chicken while infusing it with tangy flavour. It's the secret behind commercial grilled chicken's juiciness and is particularly effective for chicken breast meat which can easily become dry when grilled.
What's the ideal marinating time for the most flavourful grilled chicken nuggets?
While 30 minutes will impart some flavour, marinating for 2-4 hours yields the most flavourful results as it allows the acids in the pickle juice and lemon juice to properly tenderise the meat while the spices and sweeteners fully penetrate. Don't exceed 8 hours as the meat texture may become mushy.
Can you make these grilled nuggets without a traditional grill?
Absolutely! While a grill or grill pan creates authentic char marks, you can also use a cast iron skillet, broiler, or even an air fryer. For stovetop methods, cook on medium-high heat; in an air fryer, 180°C for 8-10 minutes works well. The marinade ensures the signature flavour regardless of cooking method.
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