Copycat chicken nuggets recipe (Printer-Friendly Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Nuggets
01 -
2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts or tenderloins (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch chunks
02 -
1 large egg
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1/2 cup milk
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1/2 cup dill pickle juice (optional but highly recommended)
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1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar (powdered sugar)
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
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1 teaspoon pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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Peanut oil (or canola oil), about 1-2 cups depending on pan size
→ For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
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1/3 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons yellow mustard
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3 tablespoons honey
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1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
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Salt and pepper to taste
# Let's Cook!:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks, milk and pickle juice. Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight (the longer, the better). When ready to cook, remove from fridge and add the egg to the chicken mixture.
02 -
In a gallon-sized ziplock bag (or bowl), mix together the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, pepper, and salt until well combined.
03 -
Take the chicken pieces out of the marinade (letting excess liquid drip off) and add them to the flour mixture. If using a bag, seal it and shake well until all pieces are fully coated. If using a bowl, toss until well coated.
04 -
Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding, add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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While the chicken is cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Serve the hot nuggets immediately with the honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.
# Recipe Notes:
01 -
The pickle juice brine is what gives these nuggets their authentic Chick-fil-A flavor
02 -
Powdered sugar is another secret ingredient that creates that signature slight sweetness
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Peanut oil is used by Chick-fil-A, but canola oil works well too
04 -
The nuggets can be reheated in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes