Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
50 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
1 hr
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Servings
4 servings
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Course
Main Course, Appetizer
Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets
Description
Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets feature bite-sized pieces of chicken breast soaked in a pickle juice and milk marinade, which adds a subtle tang and tenderness. After marinating, the chicken is dipped in a mixture of milk and egg, then coated with flour seasoned with confectioners' sugar, salt, and pepper. Cooking in peanut oil over medium-high heat produces nuggets with an even, crisp outer layer and a moist interior. The accompanying honey mustard sauce blends mayonnaise, honey, Dijon and yellow mustards, and fresh lemon juice to provide a creamy, sweet, and slightly sharp dipping option that complements the savory chicken well.
These nuggets can be served immediately as a snack or part of a meal, pairing nicely with a range of sides or sauces. The straightforward method allows for batch cooking in a skillet, making it accessible for home cooks aiming to replicate this popular chicken dish.
Marinating the chicken in pickle juice and milk for at least 30 minutes is essential to achieve the signature flavor and tenderness. Using peanut oil for frying supports even browning due to its high smoke point. The honey mustard sauce can be prepared ahead, allowing the flavors to meld while the chicken cooks.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup dill pickle juice
- 1 ½ cups milk divided
- 1 cup peanut oil
- 1 egg large
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
For the honey mustard
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
- To make the honey mustard, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, mustards and lemon juice in a small bowl; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, pickle juice and 1/2 cup milk; marinate for at least 30 minutes. Drain well.
- Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together remaining 1 cup milk and egg. Stir in chicken and gently toss to combine; drain excess milk mixture.
- In a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine chicken, flour and confectioners' sugar; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Working in batches, add chicken to the skillet and cook until evenly golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve immediately with honey mustard.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure flavorful and tender nuggets.
- Drain excess marinade thoroughly before coating the chicken to help the flour stick evenly.
- Use peanut oil for frying to achieve a crispy, golden crust without burning.
- Prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance and keep chilled until serving for balanced flavor.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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