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Easy Chick Fil A Nuggets recipe - crispy and delicious homemade copycat version

Chick Fil A Style Chicken Nuggets

Crispy, juicy chicken nuggets that mimic the popular fast-food style, perfect for picky eaters and weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Fast Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 lb Chicken breast, cut into nugget-sized pieces Boneless thighs can be used for a juicier option.
  • 1 cup Milk Add a splash of pickle juice for flavor if desired.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Flour
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch Helps achieve a lighter, crispier coating.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Powdered sugar Does not make the chicken sweet, but enhances flavor.
For Frying
  • 2 cups Oil for frying Can use peanut, canola, or vegetable oil.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut chicken into even, nugget-sized pieces, about two bites each.
  2. In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with milk and a splash of pickle juice. Let marinate for 20 to 30 minutes to enhance tenderness.
  3. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and powdered sugar.
Frying
  1. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet to approximately 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, use a small amount of flour to test; it should sizzle immediately.
  3. Fry the chicken in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a rack or paper towels and sprinkle with salt while hot.

Notes

To freeze, let cooked nuggets cool, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. To reheat, use the oven (400°F for 10-12 minutes), air fryer (375°F for 6-8 minutes), or skillet with a bit of oil until crisp.