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Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets
4.9 from 57 votes

Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets

These Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets combine boneless chicken chunks marinated in dill pickle juice and milk, then coated with a flour mixture before pan-frying in peanut oil. The nuggets develop a golden, crispy exterior while maintaining juicy tenderness inside, and are served with a tangy homemade honey mustard sauce made from mayonnaise, honey, mustard varieties, and lemon juice. This recipe offers a homemade version of the fast-food classic with a distinctive marinade and simple preparation steps.

Prep Time
50 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
1 hr
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Appetizer

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

    Cup of Yum
  1. To make the honey mustard, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, mustards and lemon juice in a small bowl; set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, pickle juice and 1/2 cup milk; marinate for at least 30 minutes. Drain well.
  3. Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together remaining 1 cup milk and egg. Stir in chicken and gently toss to combine; drain excess milk mixture.
  5. In a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine chicken, flour and confectioners' sugar; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.