Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Chick-fil-A nuggets that taste just like the real thing! This easy chicken nugget recipe features a special marinade in pickle juice and buttermilk, followed by a perfectly seasoned flour coating for that authentic, crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Prep Time:

30 mins (plus 2 hours marinating)

Cook Time:

8 mins

Serves:

4 servings (about 24 nuggets)

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">700g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3cm cubes</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml pickle juice (from a jar of dill pickles)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml buttermilk</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large egg</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">180g all-purpose flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">25g powdered sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp celery salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried basil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 litre vegetable oil, for frying</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 320 calories

🥑 Fat: 14 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 3 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 18 g

🍭 Sugar: 2 g

🍗 Protein: 32 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 125 mg

🧂 Sodium: 890 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Deep heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Candy/oil thermometer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Slotted spoon or spider strainer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Paper towel-lined baking sheet</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a medium bowl, combine the pickle juice and buttermilk. Add the cubed chicken, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This acidic marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with that distinctive tangy flavor that makes Chick-fil-A nuggets so recognizable.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>When ready to cook, drain the chicken in a colander, discarding the marinade. Pat the chicken pieces gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture, but don't dry them completely – a little moisture helps the coating adhere.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>In a shallow bowl, beat the egg until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, celery salt, and dried basil until well combined. The powdered sugar is crucial here – it's the secret ingredient that gives the coating its subtle sweetness.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Dip each chicken piece first in the beaten egg, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. For extra crispiness, you can double-dip by returning the coated piece to the egg and then back into the flour. Place the coated nuggets on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes – this allows the coating to adhere better to the chicken.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in your deep pot or fryer to 170-175°C (340-350°F). The temperature is critical – too low and your nuggets will absorb excess oil, too high and they'll burn before cooking through. Use your thermometer to maintain this temperature throughout the cooking process.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Working in batches of 6-8 nuggets at a time (to avoid overcrowding and dropping the oil temperature), carefully lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally with your slotted spoon, until they're golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) for food safety.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Using your slotted spoon or spider strainer, remove the nuggets and place them on your paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. While still hot, you can sprinkle them with a little extra salt if desired.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Allow the oil to return to the proper temperature before adding the next batch. Continue until all chicken is fried. For the authentic experience, serve immediately with Chick-fil-A sauce, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce. These nuggets are best enjoyed hot and fresh, just like at the restaurant!</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe?

The key ingredients are chicken breast, pickle juice, buttermilk, egg, flour, powdered sugar, and seasonings (paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, celery salt, dried basil). The powdered sugar and pickle juice marinade are essential for that authentic taste.

How to cook Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets by marinating chicken cubes in pickle juice and buttermilk, coating them in a seasoned flour mixture with the secret addition of powdered sugar, then deep-frying in oil at 170-175°C until golden brown and crispy. The result is juicy chicken with that signature taste.

Why is pickle juice used in chicken nugget marinades?

Pickle juice works as a natural tenderiser thanks to its acidity, breaking down proteins in the chicken while infusing it with a distinctive tangy flavour. This ingredient is key to replicating the unique Chick-fil-A taste and ensuring the nuggets stay juicy after cooking.

What's the best oil for frying chicken nuggets to achieve restaurant-quality results?

Vegetable oil is ideal due to its neutral flavour and high smoke point. Peanut oil (which Chick-fil-A uses) is another excellent option. Maintaining the correct temperature (170-175°C) is crucial for nuggets that are crispy outside and juicy inside, not greasy.

Can I bake these chicken nuggets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 200°C for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway. While baking produces a healthier result, the texture won't be identical to the original. Spray with oil before baking for better browning and a crispier exterior.

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