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Chick-fil-A Copycat Nuggets

Enjoy the crispy, golden perfection of homemade Chick-fil-A style chicken nuggets, complete with all the savory flavors and tender texture you love.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 44 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Fast Food
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1 cup cold full-fat buttermilk, well shaken
  • 3/4 cup dill pickle juice
  • 1 extra-large egg, well beaten
  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins, boneless and skinless (cut into 1-inch chunks)
Breading and Seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Frying
  • 4 cups canola oil or vegetable oil

Method
 

Marinating Chicken
  1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and dill pickle juice. Add the chicken chunks, ensuring they are well coated, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Breading
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and marinated chicken mixture.
  2. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour, bread crumbs, powdered sugar, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Cooking the Nuggets
  1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, and carefully place it in the hot oil.
  3. Fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Remove the nuggets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven for best results. You can also freeze uncooked nuggets for later enjoyment.