Chick-fil-A Nugget Copycat Recipe
Before diving into this delightful recipe, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside these crispy nuggets.
Prep Time 2 hours hrs
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 1271 kcal
For the Nuggets:
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast diced into small bite-sized chunks
- 1/4 cup brine from dill pickles this adds a unique tang and helps tenderize the chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a mild smoky flavor
- 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour based on your dietary needs
- 1 whole egg lightly beaten (acts as a binding agent)
- 3/4 cup milk of your choice whether dairy, almond, or oat
- 2 tablespoons fine powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness
- 2 teaspoons sea salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder to enhance the savory flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup peanut oil or substitute with canola or vegetable oil, divided (for frying)
For the Creamy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons honey to sweeten things up naturally
- 1 tablespoon smooth Dijon mustard
- 1-1/2 tablespoons classic yellow mustard to give that classic mustard taste
- 1/4 teaspoon apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavor
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
While the chicken marinates, grab two bowls. In one bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will give your nuggets that irresistible crunch. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to bread these bites of goodness. First, take a piece of marinated chicken and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure it’s well coated. Next, drag it through the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat for all the pieces.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Now it’s frying time! Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You'll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. The magic moment is when the oil is shimmering—this means it’s hot enough. I always do a little test with a breadcrumb to see if it sizzles; if it does, you’re good to go!
Step 5: Fry the Nuggets
Add the breaded nuggets to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. I can already smell those delicious nuggets! Once they're done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up the excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
As the nuggets cool, let’s whip up that dipping sauce. Gather a bowl and mix together the yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and creamy. This sauce with its tangy sweetness complements the crispy nuggets perfectly.
- First, let’s break down some of the ingredients a bit more. The dill pickle brine is not just for flavor; it’s crucial for keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Adding smoked paprika offers a depth that elevates the overall taste.
- I love using plain Greek yogurt in the dipping sauce because it's not only creamy but also healthier than mayo. Each ingredient ties this whole recipe together wonderfully.
Serving: 578gCalories: 1271kcalCarbohydrates: 66gProtein: 62gFat: 86.4gSaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 470mgSodium: 2889mgFiber: 2gSugar: 33g
Keyword Chick-fil-A Nugget Copycat Recipe