Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets
Craving Chick-fil-A’s famous nuggets? This copycat recipe delivers juicy, crispy chicken bites with a tangy buttermilk-pickle marinade and seasoned breading—just like the real thing.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized nuggets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup pickle juice for authentic flavor
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Breading
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar adds subtle sweetness
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
For Frying
- 2 cups peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Mix flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a bowl.
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Toss each piece in flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
- Heat peanut oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry nuggets in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray nuggets with oil. Cook in a single layer for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Notes
🥗 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 880mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 32g |