Who else always seems to crave Chick-fil-A on Sunday? Go ahead and bookmark this post for the next time that craving strikes! We've got the ultimate copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets recipe for you.
What is it about those little nuggets?! The breading…the flavor…the sauce. It's all just too dang good! And while we salute their decision to stay closed on Sundays, it really stinks when that Chick-fil-A craving strikes and we can't hop in the car and pick up a #3 combo.
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Well, the next time this happens to you, you'll be in luck! We've perfected the copycat Chick-fil-A recipe, and we're about to share it with you guys. Bookmark this post, print out the recipe, send out a group text to your friends, do what ya gotta do, but definitely try this one. Here we go!
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THE MAGICAL INGREDIENTS YOU'LL NEED FOR THESE COPYCAT CHICK-FIL-A NUGGETS
You know how crispy and perfect grandma's buttermilk fried chicken is? Well, in this recipe, pickle juice and milk do the same work as the buttermilk. But the flavor from that pickle juice? OMG! If you take away just one lesson from this post, here it is. Never throw away pickle juice! It's a crime around here.
Alright, we'll jump off our soapbox so we can share one more little secret with you guys! We added some confectioners sugar to the breading in this recipe, and holy moly. You know how those Chick-fil-A nuggets have a slight sweetness? This did the trick. So, while we're all about shelf cooking your way through recipes and using what you've got, try not to skip those two ingredients. They kind of make the recipe!
That being said, let's talk about some easy ways you can modify this recipe if you need to. Sound good?
HOW TO MODIFY THIS COPYCAT CHICK-FIL-A NUGGETS RECIPE
Okay, we bet you have most (if not all) of the ingredients you'll need to make these delicious chicken nuggets, but we never like to leave you hanging! So, if you need to swap an ingredient or two, here are a few quick ideas:
- Milk – If you're a dairy-free family or you're just all out of milk, try using unflavored almond or coconut milk instead.
- Pickle Juice – We really hope you can use pickle juice because it adds SO much flavor, but in a bind, you can use buttermilk instead of the milk + pickle juice combo.
- Eggs – All out of eggs? Hey, it happens. Take a peek at this post for tons of egg substitute ideas.
Now you're all set! Should we get to that recipe? It's coming! Promise. But really quick, let's go over some side dish options.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH YOUR CHICKEN NUGGETS
If you decide to open up a bag of chips and call it a day, we won't judge you. And if you just want to gobble up all these nuggets on their own, that's cool, too! But, if you're going to turn this glorious recipe into the perfect lunch or dinner for the fam, then we suggest serving one of these sides:
- Waffle Fries – This seems like the obvious choice, right? Here's a little tip: the Target brand of waffle fries tastes almost exactly like the ones you get at Chick-fil-A!
- Fresh Fruit – We don't know of a fast-food restaurant with a fruit cup better than Chick-fil-A's! Make your own version at home using whatever fresh fruit you have in the fridge.
- Brussels Sprouts – Why not sneak in those veggies when you can? This Brussels Sprouts recipe includes bacon, so you might even convince your pickiest eaters to try them.
- Sliced Baked Potato Nachos – Why not go all out and make it a party? These potato nachos are crazy good!
- Chicken Soup – We love a cup of soup with our chicken nuggets, and this easy creamy chicken soup is perfect!
If you're feeling adventurous, make all five and invite the neighbors over! These chicken nuggets are great for a watch party or any day that ends in y.
THE ONLY COPYCAT CHICK-FIL-A NUGGETS RECIPE YOU'LL EVER NEED
We can't keep you waiting any longer, partially because we're so excited to share this recipe with you. But also, because we can't wait to wrap up here and make another batch of these nuggets! So, without further ado, we present to you: copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets.
Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets
These crispy, juicy, yummy nuggets will hold you over the next time you find yourself craving Chick-fil-A on a Sunday!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Marinate 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Sauce
Cuisine American
Ingredients
- 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar pickle juice
- 1 ¾ cup milk, divided
- 1 egg
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tbsp confectioners sugar
- salt & pepper, to taste
- canola oil
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine pickle juice, cubed chicken, and ¾ c. milk. Marinate for 30-60 minutes.
In a large dutch oven, begin by heating 2 inches of canola oil over med/med-high heat until it reaches 360 degrees. Allow the heat to come back up between batches of chicken.
Cut the chicken breasts into 1.5 – 2 inch cubes, keeping them as evenly sized as possible, so they finish cooking at the same time.
Combine remaining milk and egg in a bowl. Drain marinated chicken and place in this bowl.
In a gallon-sized bag or another bowl, mix flour, confectioners sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the milk mixture, allow excess to drip off, and coat well with flour.
Cook chicken in oil without overcrowding the pan for 5-6 minutes, until deeply golden brown. Allow to drain on a cooling rack or paper towel. You can keep them warm in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking the rest if you would like!
Notes
If you have an air fryer, you can cook your nuggets this way for a healthier take. Just spray your basket with oil, and place the nuggets in a single layer. Cook at 360°F for around 6 minutes, shake the basket, and cook for 6 minutes more.
Keyword chicken nuggets, copycat Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets
Not too hard, eh? We're drooling on our keyboard just looking at these pics! While you're here, make sure you check out our copycat Chick-fil-A sauce recipe! It's the only thing that can make these nuggets better.
Make a big batch of these chicken nuggets and pop them in the freezer, so you're never caught off guard when a craving strikes! Just place them in an airtight bag and use them within three months. You can warm in the oven or in the air fryer and cook from frozen.
We hope you enjoy! Question: what's your favorite Chick-fil-A dipping sauce? Leave us a comment below and let us know!
Looking for a few more copycat recipes to try?
- Check out this Red Robin BBQ Chicken Wrap recipe!
- This Mexican rice tastes just like it came from your favorite restaurant.
- You'll love these Cafe Rio sweet pork rice bowls!
Time for us to dip!
As an enthusiast and expert in the culinary world, particularly in the realm of replicating popular restaurant recipes, I can attest to the intricacies involved in reverse-engineering iconic dishes. With a keen understanding of various cooking techniques, flavor profiles, and the art of crafting copycat recipes, I am excited to share insights into the tantalizing world of Chick-fil-A nuggets.
The article you provided is a delightful journey into recreating the magic of Chick-fil-A nuggets at home. Let's break down the key concepts and culinary tips mentioned in the text:
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Magical Ingredients:
- The use of pickle juice and milk in the marinade is highlighted. These ingredients play a crucial role in mimicking the buttermilk-fried chicken experience. The unique flavor imparted by pickle juice is emphasized, making it a standout element.
- Confectioners sugar is added to the breading, contributing a subtle sweetness to replicate the characteristic taste of Chick-fil-A nuggets.
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Modification Options:
- The article provides practical alternatives for those who may need to modify the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Milk can be substituted with unflavored almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Buttermilk can be used instead of the combination of milk and pickle juice in the marinade.
- Suggestions for egg substitutes are offered for those who may be out of eggs.
- The article provides practical alternatives for those who may need to modify the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
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Side Dish Recommendations:
- The post suggests side dishes to complement the homemade Chick-fil-A nuggets. Options include waffle fries (with a tip on a Target brand recommendation), fresh fruit, Brussels sprouts with bacon, sliced baked potato nachos, and creamy chicken soup.
- The variety of side dishes allows for a personalized dining experience, adding to the versatility of the homemade meal.
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The Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe:
- The recipe itself is presented with detailed instructions, including marinating the chicken in pickle juice and milk, coating it in a flour mixture with confectioners sugar, and frying until golden brown.
- The cooking process is versatile, offering an alternative method using an air fryer for a healthier option.
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Freezing and Storage Tips:
- Practical tips are provided for preparing and storing a large batch of nuggets for future cravings. The suggestion to freeze the nuggets in an airtight bag for up to three months ensures a convenient and quick solution when the desire for Chick-fil-A strikes.
In conclusion, the article not only shares a well-crafted copycat recipe but also engages readers with personal anecdotes, tips, and a touch of humor. As someone deeply immersed in the culinary world, I appreciate the attention to detail and the passion for recreating beloved dishes at home. If you have any questions or want further culinary insights, feel free to ask!
