Ultimate Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe – Tastes Just Like the Real Thing!

Craving those crispy, juicy, perfectly seasoned Chick-fil-A nuggets but don’t feel like leaving home (or spending the extra cash)? We’ve got you covered with this insanely good copycat recipe that’s gone viral for a reason!

These nuggets are golden, crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—and yes, they taste just like the real deal (maybe even better!). The secret? A genius marinade, the perfect breading, and a frying method that keeps everything light and crispy. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup dill pickle juice (YES—this is the Chick-fil-A flavor hack!)
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Frying:

Vegetable oil for deep frying (canola or peanut oil work great)

Optional – Chick-fil-A Style Honey Mustard Sauce:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken (Don’t Skip This!)

In a large bowl, mix milk, pickle juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add in your cubed chicken and let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge—overnight is even better. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with that signature Chick-fil-A flavor.

Pro Tip: The pickle juice is the magic ingredient. Don’t skip it!

2. Prep the Breading

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend gives the nuggets their iconic crispy and flavorful crust.

3. Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, shake off excess liquid, and dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to make sure it sticks well.

4. Fry Until Golden

Heat your oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the nuggets in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!) for about 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels.

Make the Signature Sauce

While the nuggets cool slightly, mix the mayo, mustard, honey, and vinegar together in a small bowl to make your own Chick-fil-A style honey mustard sauce. It’s creamy, tangy, sweet—and perfect for dipping!

Serving Ideas

Serve these delicious nuggets hot and fresh with:

Waffle fries
Mac and cheese
A side of coleslaw
Pickles and buns for a mini sandwich twist
And of course, dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, or Chick-fil-A sauce!

Tips for Perfect Nuggets Every Time:

Cornstarch = crispiness. Don’t leave it out.
Use a thermometer to make sure your oil stays hot enough.
Double-dip for extra crunch: Dip the nuggets back in marinade then coat in flour again before frying.
Air fryer? Go ahead! Spray nuggets with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken