Name: Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/3 cup dill pickle juice; 1/4 cup milk; 2 teaspoons powdered sugar; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil

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Introduction

Craving the famous Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets? This homemade version captures all the juicy, tender flavors with a simple marinade and spice mix. Perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty snack, these nuggets are sure to become a family favorite.

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface with a green and white patterned cloth under its edge. The plate holds several pieces of golden-brown fried chicken arranged close to each other in the foreground and middle ground. Behind the chicken pieces, there is a cluster of light golden fries. Towards the back right side of the plate, a small white ramekin holds a thick, smooth, yellow dipping sauce. The overall look is warm-toned and crispy, with the textures of crunchy fried chicken and fries clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/3 cup dill pickle juice

1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons powdered sugar

3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon black pepper

3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Add the chicken pieces to a bowl and pour over the milk and dill pickle juice. Stir gently, pressing the chicken down so it is mostly covered. Let it marinate for 45 minutes for optimal flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place the pieces on a paper towel-lined tray. Dab the tops with additional paper towels to dry them well.
Step 3: Toss the chicken with powdered sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 4: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165ºF.
Step 5: Once fully cooked, remove the nuggets from heat and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try soaking the chicken overnight in the pickle juice and milk mixture.

Use an air fryer at 400ºF for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through for a crispy finish with less oil.
Substitute paprika with smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste.
Serve with honey mustard or Chick-fil-A sauce for an authentic experience.

Storage

Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ºF for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate filled with several pieces of cooked chicken that have a golden-brown, slightly glazed surface with some charred spots, arranged closely together in the foreground. Behind the chicken pieces, there is a small white ramekin filled with a pale orange, smooth dipping sauce. To the left side of the plate, a stack of thick-cut golden fries is visible, with a crispy texture and ridges. The plate is set on a green cloth with white floral patterns, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add a bit more juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What if I don’t have dill pickle juice?

If you don’t have dill pickle juice, you can substitute with a mix of water and a splash of vinegar with a pinch of salt, but the pickle juice adds a distinctive tang that enhances the flavor best.