Name: Nuggets Recipe (Chick Fil A Copycat)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; ½ cup milk; 1 eggs; 1 cup flour; 3 tbsp powdered sugar; 2 tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; Vegetable Oil

This recipe is a delicious attempt at recreating the popular Chick Fil A nuggets at home, using simple ingredients found in most kitchens. This copycat version not only tastes amazing, but it also gives you the flexibility to make these much-loved nuggets anytime you want.

Photos of Nuggets Recipe (Chick Fil A Copycat)

The ingredients used in this recipe are quite common and should be easily available in your pantry or the nearest supermarket. The key ingredient is chicken breast, which is used for making the nuggets. Other ingredients include milk, eggs, flour, powdered sugar, salt and pepper. You would also need vegetable oil for frying the nuggets. The powdered sugar might seem like an unusual ingredient for a savory dish, but it helps in achieving the slightly sweet flavor of Chick Fil A nuggets.

Detailed Look at Chick Fil A Copycat Nuggets Ingredients

Chicken breasts: These are the main ingredient and are chosen for their lean and tender meat.

Milk: Works as part of the batter, making the chicken tender.

Eggs: This helps to bind the flour coating to the chicken.

Flour: It creates a crispy coating for the nuggets.

Powdered sugar: Adds a slight sweetness to the nuggets, mimicking the signature taste of Chick Fil A nuggets.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the nuggets.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the nuggets.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the nuggets to golden perfection.

One reader, Ailyn Groves says:

This Chick-fil-A copycat nuggets recipe is a game-changer! The nuggets turned out crispy and flavorful, just like the real deal. The recipe was easy to follow, and the end result was absolutely delicious. I'll definitely be making these nuggets again and again. Highly recommended!

Ailyn Groves

Techniques Required for Making Chick-fil-A Copycat Nuggets

How to cut chicken breasts: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to eat.

How to coat the chicken pieces: Dip the chicken pieces in the milk and egg mixture, then place them in a bag with the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and pepper. Shake the bag to evenly coat each piece with the seasoned flour mixture.

How to fry the chicken nuggets: Heat the oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

How to drain and serve: Once the chicken nuggets are cooked, drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil, then serve them warm.

How To Make Nuggets (Chick Fil A Copycat)

Missing Chick Fil A’s chicken nuggets? Then this copycat nuggets recipe made of bite-size chicken breast, flour, and simple seasonings is perfect for you.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2chicken breasts,boneless skinless
½cupmilk
1eggs
1cupflour
3tbsppowdered sugar
2tspsalt
½tsppepper
vegetable oil,for frying

Instructions

Begin by cutting up your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
Place oil in a medium pan and turn to medium heat.
From there add the milk and egg to a bowl and whisk together until combined. Set aside.
Pour your flour, powdered sugar, salt and pepper into a gallon bag.
Add several chicken pieces to the milk-egg mixture until well coated and then throw the pieces into your gallon bag and shake until each piece is evenly coated.
Place chicken pieces in oil and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Drain pieces onto a paper towel and serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 68.38kcal
Fat: 2.54g
Saturated Fat: 0.68g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.50g
Carbohydrates: 6.32g
Fiber: 0.19g
Sugar: 1.51g
Protein: 4.74g
Cholesterol: 19.74mg
Sodium: 78.21mg
Calcium: 11.32mg
Potassium: 56.99mg
Iron: 0.25mg
Vitamin A: 10.44µg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets

To ensure your chicken nuggets are cooked evenly and thoroughly, make sure to cut your chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces. This not only helps in even cooking but also gives a consistent texture and taste to every bite. Additionally, shaking the chicken pieces in the bag helps to evenly distribute the flour mixture, resulting in a more uniform and crispier coating.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Copycat Nuggets

Prep ahead: Prepare the milk and egg mixture and store it in the fridge the night before. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Double batch: Make a larger batch of the nuggets and freeze the extras for a quick and easy meal in the future.

Organized workspace: Set up a well-organized workspace with all the ingredients and utensils you need before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Use kitchen shears: Instead of cutting the chicken breasts with a knife, use kitchen shears to quickly and easily cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Hot oil: Preheat the oil while you are coating the chicken pieces to save time during the cooking process.

Bake instead of fry: Consider baking the nuggets instead of frying them to save time and reduce the amount of hands-on cooking required.

Team effort: Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist with the coating and frying process to make the task more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Nuggets Recipe (Chick Fil A Copycat)

Chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, making them a great substitute for this recipe.
Milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and tenderizes the chicken, giving it a delicious taste and texture.
Eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg): Flax eggs work as a binding agent and can be used as a vegan alternative in this recipe.
Flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: This is a suitable alternative for those who are gluten intolerant or following a gluten-free diet.
Powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute, although it will not dissolve as easily as powdered sugar.
Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular table salt, adding a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
Pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the nuggets.
Vegetable oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and adds a nutty flavor, making it a great substitute for frying the nuggets.

Presenting Your Homemade Chick-fil-A Style Nuggets

Elevate the plating: When presenting the chick-fil-a copycat nuggets, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a combination of vibrant colors and textures to make the dish visually striking.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating fresh herbs and edible flowers as garnishes. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle hint of flavor to the dish.
Utilize unique serving ware: Opt for sophisticated serving platters or artisanal ceramic plates to showcase the nuggets. The choice of serving ware can elevate the overall dining experience and leave a lasting impression.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each nugget and ensure that they are arranged meticulously on the plate. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Incorporate complementary sides: Pair the nuggets with house-made dipping sauces and a side of crispy sweet potato fries to create a well-rounded and visually appealing dish. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Copycat Nuggets

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or sauces.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
Gallon bag: A large, resealable plastic bag used for coating ingredients with flour or breading.
Medium pan: A cooking pan used for frying or sautéing ingredients.
Paper towel: Used for draining and absorbing excess oil from fried foods.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Chick-fil-A Inspired Nuggets

Allow the chicken nuggets to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and ensure they maintain their crispy texture.
For short-term storage, place the cooled nuggets in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the nuggets for longer storage:
- Arrange the cooled nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the nuggets are frozen solid. This initial freezing step prevents the nuggets from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer the nuggets to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and store the nuggets in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the stored or frozen chick fil a copycat nuggets:
- For refrigerated nuggets, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- For frozen nuggets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the frozen nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. No need to thaw the nuggets before reheating.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the nuggets in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes (refrigerated) or 8-10 minutes (frozen), or until heated through and crispy.
Avoid microwaving the nuggets, as this can result in a soggy texture and uneven heating. Oven or air fryer reheating is recommended to maintain the crispy exterior.

How To Reheat Leftover Chick-fil-A Style Nuggets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the leftover chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the nuggets are heated through and the exterior is crispy again. This method ensures even heating and helps restore the original texture of the breading.
For a quicker option, use an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the nuggets in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the nuggets are hot and crispy. The air fryer's rapid air circulation helps to revive the crunch of the breading while keeping the chicken moist.
If you're in a hurry, the microwave can be used, but it may result in a softer texture. Place the nuggets on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-second intervals, checking after each interval to avoid overheating. To help maintain some crispiness, place a damp paper towel over the nuggets while microwaving.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the nuggets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this may cause the nuggets to steam rather than crisp up.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the nuggets effectively. Preheat the toaster oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the nuggets on the wire rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the nuggets are heated through and the exterior is crispy. This method provides results similar to a conventional oven but with faster preheating and cooking times.

Interesting Trivia About Chick-fil-A Inspired Nuggets

Chick-fil-A nuggets are known for their unique taste due to being marinated in a blend of seasonings, including salt, sugar, and a little bit of MSG, which gives them their distinct flavor.

Is Making Chick-fil-A Style Nuggets at Home Cost-Effective?

The chick fil a copycat nuggets recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The use of simple and readily available ingredients like chicken breasts, milk, and flour makes it budget-friendly. However, the cost may vary based on the quality of ingredients and current market prices. Considering the popularity and appeal of this dish, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, as it offers a delicious alternative to the restaurant version at a fraction of the cost.

Are Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Chick-fil-A copycat nuggets recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

Deep frying the nuggets in vegetable oil adds a significant amount of unhealthy fats and calories
The breading, containing flour and powdered sugar, adds refined carbohydrates and extra calories without much nutritional value
The recipe lacks vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing too much flavor:

Instead of deep frying, try baking the nuggets in the oven or using an air fryer to reduce the amount of oil needed
Swap out the all-purpose flour for a whole grain or almond flour to increase fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the breading or replace it with a healthier alternative like coconut sugar or honey
Serve the nuggets with a side of fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or a salad to add more vitamins and minerals to the meal
Use a lean cut of chicken breast and trim off any excess fat to reduce the overall fat content of the dish

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a healthier version of this classic fast food favorite without sacrificing too much of the crispy, juicy goodness that makes Chick-fil-A nuggets so craveable.

Editor's Opinion on This Chick-fil-A Nuggets Copycat Recipe

This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to recreate the beloved Chick-fil-A nuggets at home. The combination of milk and egg creates a flavorful and tender coating for the chicken, while the addition of powdered sugar adds a hint of sweetness. The seasoning blend of salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile. The cooking instructions are clear and easy to follow, resulting in crispy and golden brown nuggets. However, for an extra touch, consider adding a dash of paprika or garlic powder to the flour mixture for added depth of flavor. Overall, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy homemade nuggets reminiscent of the popular fast-food chain.

Enhance Your Nuggets Recipe (Chick Fil A Copycat) with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad with a mix of juicy strawberries, sweet pineapple, and tangy kiwi, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Tomato Soup: Rich and velvety tomato soup, made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream for a comforting bowl of warmth.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: A delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: A sweet and tangy glaze that takes your salmon to the next level of flavor.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: A refreshing and tropical dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat.

Spicy Sausage and Lentil Soup: A hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Your Chick-fil-A Inspired Meal

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke with a blend of cheeses for a rich and savory appetizer that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs to stuff into tender mushroom caps, then bake until golden and delicious for an elegant and satisfying appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. The contrast between the slightly crispy exterior and the molten center creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with a classic tiramisu, featuring layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso and layered with a creamy mascarpone filling. The dusting of cocoa powder on top adds a hint of bitterness that balances out the sweetness perfectly.

Why trust this Nuggets Recipe (Chick Fil A Copycat):

This recipe for chick fil a copycat nuggets is a trusted and reliable option for anyone craving the classic fast food favorite. With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, milk, and flour, this recipe offers a homemade alternative to the popular menu item. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can recreate the beloved chicken nuggets with ease. The use of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the combination of salt and pepper guarantees a well-balanced flavor profile. Trust this recipe to deliver a delicious copycat version of the beloved chick fil a nuggets.

Share your thoughts on this Chick Fil A Copycat Nuggets Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use different types of meat such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Absolutely! You can use any type of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil or peanut oil, for frying the nuggets.

Can I make these nuggets ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can make the nuggets ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness. Just place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Can I freeze the nuggets for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the nuggets after they have been cooked. Once they are completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Can I make a dipping sauce to go with these nuggets?

Absolutely! You can make a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch to accompany these delicious nuggets. Just get creative and have fun with it!