Grilled Nuggets from Chick-fil-A feature tender, marinated chicken breast bites grilled to perfection, offering a juicy and smoky flavor with a light, charred exterior that's both healthy and satisfying.
Equipments
- Grill (charbroiler or gas grill)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Food-safe gloves
- Marinade container (optional)
- Sheet pan or tray for holding raw/finished nuggets
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup dill pickle juice
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Using fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures tender and juicy grilled nuggets. Marinating the chicken in a combination of dill pickle juice and milk helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with tangy flavor. Be precise with the powdered sugar and spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder to achieve the authentic smoky and lightly charred taste. Use a meat thermometer to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safety and optimal juiciness. Your homemade Grilled Nuggets from Chick-fil-A copycat menu will deliver the same delicious, healthy, and satisfying grilled chicken bites enjoyed at the restaurant.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Put on food-safe gloves.
- Trim and cut chicken breasts into bite-sized nuggets using a chef’s knife and cutting board.
- In a mixing bowl, combine dill pickle juice and milk.
- Place chicken pieces in the marinade; stir to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, powdered sugar, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried parsley.
- Drain marinade from chicken and pat nuggets dry with paper towels.
- Toss chicken pieces in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400–425°F / 200–220°C).
- Oil grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Arrange chicken nuggets on the hot grill.
- Grill for 3–5 minutes per side, turning with tongs, until chicken is cooked through and has grill marks.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove nuggets from grill and place on a clean sheet pan or tray.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Grilled Nuggets from Chick-fil-A copycat recipes rely heavily on the marinade, and if dill pickle juice is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of vinegar and water with a pinch of sugar for a similar tangy effect. When choosing chicken breasts, slicing them evenly ensures uniform cooking, helping you avoid dry or undercooked pieces. Using a meat thermometer is essential to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. If a grill isn't accessible, a grill pan or broiler can mimic the smoky charred exterior while keeping the nuggets juicy. Your choice of olive oil can be swapped with avocado oil for a slightly different flavor profile and higher smoke point.
Tips
Your chicken nuggets should be trimmed and cut uniformly to ensure even cooking and prevent some pieces from drying out while others remain undercooked. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of dill pickle juice and milk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor, but avoid exceeding 2 hours to prevent a mushy texture. Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve a crisp, flavorful exterior when grilled. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) to guarantee food safety and optimal juiciness.
Nutritions
Your Grilled Nuggets from Chick-fil-A provide a good source of lean protein, coming from 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which supports muscle maintenance and overall health. The marinade includes dill pickle juice and milk, adding minimal calories while enhancing flavor and tenderness without unhealthy additives. Seasoning with olive oil and spices like paprika and garlic powder contributes antioxidants and healthy monounsaturated fats, promoting heart health. Grilling at medium-high heat allows excess fat to drip off, making these nuggets a healthier option compared to frying methods.
Storage
Store grilled nuggets in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. They can safely be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage, ideally in freezer-safe bags to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) to keep your meal safe and flavorful.
Variation or Alternatives
To enhance flavor, substitute the dill pickle juice with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to add a tangy twist to your grilled nuggets. For an extra smoky profile, incorporate smoked sea salt into the seasoning blend or add a dash of chipotle powder. Consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration and tenderization. You can also try baking the nuggets at 400degF (204degC) for 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative to grilling while achieving a crispy exterior.
Allergies
Grilled Nuggets from Chick-fil-A contain milk as an ingredient, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The use of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder may also cause sensitivities or allergic responses in some people. It's important for You to check ingredient lists carefully and consult with a healthcare provider if you have food allergies before consuming this product.
Why this recipe?
Chick-fil-A's Grilled Nuggets menu is popular for its tender, marinated chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of spices, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fried options. These nuggets provide high protein content with lower calories and fat, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking flavorful meals. You can recreate this taste at home with simple ingredients and a reliable grilling method, making a satisfying, guilt-free snack or meal. Trying a copycat recipe allows you to enjoy Chick-fil-A's signature flavor anytime while controlling ingredients for your dietary preferences.