why make this recipe
This recipe gives you a simple, tasty grilled nugget like the restaurant version. It uses basic ingredients you likely have. It cooks fast and feels a little healthier than fried nuggets.
introduction
These grilled chicken nuggets copy the savory flavor you like from Chick-Fil-A. You marinate in pickle juice for a bright taste and grill for a smoky finish. For another guide to grilled nuggets, see this grilled Chick-Fil-A chicken nuggets guide.
how to make Grilled Chicken Nuggets Chick-Fil-A Copycat
Marinate the chicken first. Then dip pieces in the milk and egg mix and coat with the breadcrumb mix. Grill on medium heat until the nuggets are golden and cooked through. If you want tips on balancing flavors with sides, this tip page can help: Chick-Fil-A copycat chicken salad tips.
Ingredients :
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1/4 cup pickle juice, 1/2 cup milk, 1 egg, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions :
- Marinate the chicken pieces in pickle juice for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine milk and egg, whisking until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Dip each marinated chicken piece in the milk mixture, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the nuggets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
how to serve Grilled Chicken Nuggets Chick-Fil-A Copycat
Serve hot with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. Add a side salad, coleslaw, or a small portion of fries. Place nuggets on a warm plate so they stay crispy.
how to store Grilled Chicken Nuggets Chick-Fil-A Copycat
Cool the nuggets to room temperature before storing. Put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for best crispness.
tips to make Grilled Chicken Nuggets Chick-Fil-A Copycat
Pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the pickle juice stick. Do not crowd the grill. Turn nuggets once for even cooking. For a different texture, try using panko breadcrumbs. For more recipe ideas and pairings, check this copycat chicken salad recipe.
variation (if any)
- Make them spicy: add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne to the breadcrumb mix.
- Air-fry option: cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping once.
- Gluten-free: use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes. Thighs stay juicy. Cut them into similar bite sizes.
Q: How long do I marinate the chicken?
A: At least 30 minutes. You can do up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Q: Are these safe to grill on a pan?
A: Yes. A grill pan gives a nice sear and works well on the stove.
Q: Can I make the nuggets ahead?
A: You can cook them, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat in an oven to keep them crispy.
Q: What internal temp should the chicken reach?
A: Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Conclusion
If you want a full copycat guide from another source for comparison, see this Chick-Fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets Recipe (Copycat).
Print
Grilled Chicken Nuggets (Chick-Fil-A Copycat)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available
Description
These grilled chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to fried nuggets, flavored with pickle juice and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup pickle juice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken pieces in pickle juice for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine milk and egg in a bowl, whisking until smooth.
- Mix breadcrumbs, flour, sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper in another bowl.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Dip each marinated chicken piece in the milk mixture, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the nuggets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before marinating for better flavor absorption. Avoid crowding the grill for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: grilled chicken nuggets, Chick-Fil-A copycat, healthy recipe, easy chicken recipe, grilling tips