Description
Unlock the secret to the perfect Chick-fil-A nuggets at home! This recipe guides you through creating deliciously tender, pickle-brined chicken with that iconic crispy coating. Get ready to enjoy your favorite fast-food treat without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup dill pickle juice
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 2–3 cups peanut oil (or other high smoke point oil), for frying
Instructions
- Prep Chicken & Brine: Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine pickle juice, milk, and egg. Add chicken, cover, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours (minimum 30 mins).
- Prepare Breading: In a shallow dish or large Ziploc bag, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tsp salt, black pepper, and baking powder.
- Coat Chicken: Remove chicken from brine (do not rinse). Add chicken pieces, a few at a time, to the flour mixture. Toss or shake until fully coated, pressing flour onto chicken. Place on a wire rack.
- Fry Nuggets: Heat peanut oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350-360°F (175-180°C). Fry chicken in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp).
- Drain & Season: Remove fried nuggets with a slotted spoon to a wire rack set over paper towels. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Serve hot with your favorite sauces!
- Prep Time: 30 mins + 2-4 hrs brining
- Cook Time: 20 mins