chick fil a grilled nuggets recipe
Chick Fil A Grilled Nuggets Recipe Why You’ll Love This Hack. Recreate these tasty nuggets with this copycat grilled nugget recipe. It’s a simple way to grill!
Ingredients
Main Components
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast about 2 large breasts - look for even thickness
- ½ cup dill pickle juice the brine from jarred dill pickles - this is non-negotiable for authentic flavor
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil for higher heat cooking
The Flavor Builders
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar - enhances the tanginess
- 1 tsp garlic powder - for savory depth
- 1 tsp onion powder - adds subtle sweetness
- 1 tsp paprika - provides color and mild smokiness
- ½ tsp black pepper - freshly ground works best
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional - for a slight kick
Pro Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Selection: Always use boneless skinless chicken breast for the closest match to Chick-fil-A's texture. Chicken tenders work too.
- Pickle Juice Matters: The dill pickle juice must come from actual dill pickles not sweet or bread & butter style.
- Oil Choice: Olive oil works great but avocado oil has a higher smoke point for grilling.
- Spice Quality: Fresh spices make a difference - check your garlic powder and paprika aren't stale.
Optional Boosters
- 2 tbsp milk add to marinade for extra tenderness
- 1 tsp mustard powder enhances savory notes
- 1 tsp honey balances acidity
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Cut the chicken: Trim any excess fat from 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast. Slice into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes for even cooking).
- Pat dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps the marinade stick better.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup dill pickle juice (key for authentic flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Optional: Add 2 tbsp milk for extra tenderness (like Chick-fil-A’s recipe).
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken pieces in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes (minimum) or up to 4 hours.
- Don’t over-marinate: The acidity can make the chicken mushy if left too long.
Step 4: Cook the Nuggets
- Choose your cooking method:
- Grill Pan (Stovetop)
- Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil to prevent sticking.
- Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side, until grill marks form and internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Outdoor Grill
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Oil grates.
- Thread chicken onto skewers or use a grill basket to prevent pieces from falling through.
- Grill 3–4 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer (no overcrowding).
- Cook 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let nuggets rest 2–3 minutes before serving (keeps them juicy).
- Pair with Chick-fil-A sauce or homemade Chick-fil-A sauce for dipping.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180 kcal | 6g | 28g | 2g | 0.5g | 1g | 450mg |