The Best Chick-Fil-A Chicken Nuggets Copycat Recipe

Chick-fil-A nuggets are a sensation across the nation, and for good reason! Known for their perfectly crispy coating, juicy interior, and addictive flavor, they're the undisputed king in the world of fast-food chicken. If you can't tell, they're my personal favorite, and I'm sure they're yours as well or else you wouldn't be here!

These homemade nuggets are made with simple ingredients that closely rival the original. From the tangy pickle juice marinade to the tender chicken wrapped in a perfectly crispy coating, they're as close as you can get to the real deal without stealing the recipe! 

Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, these nuggets are your answer when craving fast food. Best of all, making them at home is easier than you think! The most time-consuming part is waiting for the chicken to marinate. Besides that, it comes together almost effortlessly. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe if you want. Love an extra crispy coating? Maybe a bit of heat? Feel free to get creative and experiment!

Since you're here and love famous copycat chicken recipes, check out this KFC Popcorn Chicken Recipe, this McDonald's Chicken Nuggets Copycat Recipe, or this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken.

Ingredients for this Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets copycat recipe

Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.

• Chicken Breasts: are the traditional lean and tender cut used for Chick-fil-A nuggets. Cut your pieces evenly to ensure uniform cooking. 
• Dill Pickle Juice: is the secret ingredient for flavorful chicken. The acidity of the pickle juice helps break down the protein and makes it super moist.
• Milk: adds moisture to the batter and helps create a smooth coating for the nuggets. 
• Eggs: act as a binding agent that helps the flour and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. 
• All Purpose Flour: is the foundation of the breading and gives your chicken nuggets a crispy crust. 
• Bread Crumbs: enhance the coating texture and give the nuggets their crispiness. 
• Powdered Sugar: adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors. 
• Garlic Powder: adds depth and a subtly pungent flavor to the breading. 
• Paprika: has a smoky flavor and contributes to the golden color of the nuggets. 
• Salt: enhances all of the flavors. 
• Black Pepper: adds a gentle heat to the mix. 
• Baking Powder: helps create a light and airy coating by creating air bubbles as the nuggets fry. 
• Oil: is used for frying. Chick-fil-A uses peanut oil, but feel free to use your favorite type of frying oil. 

How to make Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions.

1. Place chicken breast chunks in pickle juice and let marinate for 30 minutes to an hour. The longer the chicken soaks, the better; you can even marinate it overnight.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Then combine flour, powdered sugar, bread crumbs, garlic powder, baking powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
3. Drain the pickle juice from the chicken, add it into the milk and egg mixture, and mix to combine.
4. Transfer the chicken into the flour mixture using a fork or a slotted spatula and gently mix to coat. Discard the leftover milk and egg mixture. 
5. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F and fry chicken in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and continue cooking your chicken. 
6. Serve immediately, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets copycat recipe

• Marinating Matters. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes. The longer you marinate, the more tender your nuggets will be. 
• Double Dip for Extra Crunch. After the first coating in the flour mixture, lightly dip the chicken back into the milk and egg mixture, then coat it in the flour again. This double-dipping method creates a thicker, crispier crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan. Fry the nuggets in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. Overcrowding can result in soggy or unevenly cooked nuggets.
• Drain on a Wire Rack. Instead of paper towels, place fried nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
• Experiment with Seasoning. If you love spicy nuggets, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture. For an extra savory kick, add a pinch of onion powder.

Why you need to make this homemade Chick-fil-A chicken nugget recipe

• The bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken breast tastes just like the restaurant's.
• People of all ages love them, from the kids to the adults.
• You save money by using an expensive ingredient like chicken meat at home.
• It's healthier because you control everything that goes into it which can reduce the calories.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Can I bake these chicken bites instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and place your breaded nuggets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. 

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great if you prefer a juicier, richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a little longer to cook through. Always check with a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature hits 165 degrees F. 

How can I serve these Chick-fil-a chicken nuggets?

These famous nuggets pair well with any dipping sauce! Classic sauces like yellow mustard, ketchup, honey mustard sauce, barbecue sauce, ranch, and Chick-fil-A sauce are all great options. For a fun twist, try them with spicy sriracha mayo or this sweet and sour sauce recipe. For tasty side dishes, try waffle fries or mac and cheese.

What oil should I use if I don’t have peanut oil?

If you don’t have peanut oil you can use other oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or sunflower oil. These oils have high smoke points and neutral flavors, making them perfect for frying. I don’t recommend using olive oil for this recipe. 

How do I store leftovers of this Chick-fil-a chicken nuggets copycat recipe? 

To store leftover nuggets, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, put them in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees F for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Can I freeze these nuggets?

Definitely! After making the raw nuggets, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then move to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months. Fry or bake directly from frozen when ready to use. Add a few extra minutes of cooking time when cooking.

The Best Chick-Fil-A Chicken Nuggets Copycat Recipe