Name: Chick Fil A Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 cup Dill pickle juice; 1 large Egg; 1 cup Milk; 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon Confectioners’ sugar; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; as needed Peanut oil or canola oil (For frying)

Jump to Recipe

Craving juicy, golden, and bite-sized chicken that tastes just like your favorite fast-food indulgence? Chick Fil A Nuggets are here to satisfy your comfort food dreams with their crispy exterior and juicy, tender center. Whether you’re planning a fun family dinner, a game-day snack, or simply want something irresistibly delicious, these homemade nuggets are your ticket to fried chicken happiness. Did you know that part of their secret flavor comes from marinating in pickle juice? That’s right! This quirky technique adds both moisture and tang—a little culinary magic anyone can master at home. Much like my ever-popular Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders, these nuggets are quick, easy, and guaranteed to please all ages. If you’re looking for a fast, family-friendly meal that brings smiles around the table, this recipe is the way to go. Let’s fry up some happiness!

What is Chick Fil A Nuggets?

So what exactly are Chick Fil A Nuggets, and why do folks rave about them non-stop? These famous chicken bites are inspired by the beloved menu item from the iconic Chick-fil-A restaurant chain. Ever wonder how a little nugget of chicken could win so many hearts (and stomachs)? Maybe it’s that classic saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—or maybe it’s just the magic of a perfectly crisp coating and that pickle-brined juiciness inside. Named after the restaurant where they gained fame, these nuggets deliver that signature blend of flavor and crunch we all crave. Why not try making them at home? One bite, and you’ll be hooked—promise!

Why You’ll Love This

The biggest highlight of these homemade Chick Fil A Nuggets is how they deliver crave-worthy fast-food flavor, right in your own kitchen. Imagine the satisfaction of sinking your teeth into juicy, golden pieces, each coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy layer. Making these at home is not only kinder to your wallet; you control the quality of your ingredients, too. No mysterious additives—just kitchen staples and plenty of love. The tangy pickle juice marinade, hint of sweetness from confectioners’ sugar, and classic seasonings give these nuggets their unforgettable taste. If you’ve loved my copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich, you’ll appreciate how these nuggets hit all the right notes and have the same family-friendly appeal. Ready to taste the hype? Give this recipe a try and prepare for happy smiles at the table!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Making Chick Fil A Nuggets at home could not be easier or more rewarding. This recipe combines simple ingredients and a few easy steps to recreate that signature taste in under an hour. The magic is in marinating the chicken pieces in pickle juice, then double-dipping them in a flavorful batter before frying to golden perfection. You’ll end up with nuggets that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—and dangerously hard to resist. Start to finish, you’ll have a plate of piping hot nuggets in about 40 minutes.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup dill pickle juice

1 large egg

1 cup milk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

Peanut oil or canola oil, for frying

Step-by-Step

Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the dill pickle juice. Stir well to coat every piece, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This gives your nuggets their signature Chick Fil A flavor!
Make the Dredging Station
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until smooth. In another bowl, mix the flour, confectioners’ sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and gently pat it dry with paper towels. Dip each piece first into the egg-milk mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour. For extra-crispy nuggets, repeat this step for a double coating.
Fry the Nuggets
Heat 1–2 inches of peanut or canola oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, carefully add the coated chicken pieces and fry for 3–4 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.
Drain and Serve
Transfer the fried nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let cool slightly, then dive in!

What to Serve Chick Fil A Nuggets With

Chick Fil A Nuggets are delightful on their own but even better paired with tasty sides and drinks. Classic French fries or sweet potato fries are always a hit, while a crisp coleslaw or kale salad brings fresh crunch and color to your plate. Don’t forget tangy dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or classic Chick-fil-A sauce for a true restaurant experience. For drinks, a cold lemonade or iced tea is the perfect Southern finishing touch. Planning a party? Serve these nuggets alongside fresh fruit skewers and baked mac and cheese for a spread that’ll satisfy every appetite!

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra-juicy nuggets, don’t rush the pickle juice marinade—30 minutes is the minimum, but you can go up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Out of peanut oil? Canola oil works well for frying and is a safe substitute.
Double-dipping the chicken in the flour mixture after the egg wash creates a crunchier crust—perfect for nugget enthusiasts!
Don’t overcrowd your pan when frying. Crowding cools the oil and leads to soggy nuggets.
If you’re in a hurry, you can cut the marinating time to 15 minutes, but flavor and texture won’t be as pronounced.
GF swap: Simply use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose.
Avoid overcooking—the nuggets only need a few minutes in hot oil. Once golden, they’re likely done!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Chick Fil A Nuggets keep beautifully for quick snacks or lunches. Store cooled nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, set your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C), and warm the nuggets for about 5–7 minutes—this keeps them crispy without drying them out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. For longer storage, freeze the cooked and cooled nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. To reheat frozen nuggets, bake in a preheated oven or air fryer until hot and crispy.

FAQs

How do I make the nuggets gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. The flavor and crunch remain terrific!

Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?
Absolutely! Arrange coated nuggets on a greased baking rack set over a sheet pan, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through.

Why marinate chicken in pickle juice?
Pickle juice tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with tangy flavor—the not-so-secret ingredient behind the cult-favorite nuggets.

What’s the best way to keep nuggets crispy after frying?
Let fried nuggets cool on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drip off and keeps the coating crunchy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Thighs make even juicier nuggets and are a fantastic swap if you prefer dark meat.

Conclusion

Chick Fil A Nuggets are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy outside, tender inside, with that signature flavor everyone loves. Whether you’re recreating your favorite fast-food meal or serving up fun bites for family and friends, this recipe brings restaurant magic home at a fraction of the cost. Plus, you can tweak the flavors and textures just how you like! So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to the irresistible taste of Chick Fil A Nuggets. Once you try them, they’ll become a permanent favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!