Description
Master how to make chick fil a nuggets at home with this step-by-step guide. Achieve that signature crispy exterior and juicy, pickle-brined flavor in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup dill pickle juice
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt, plus more for seasoning after frying
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3–4 cups peanut, vegetable, or canola oil, for frying
Instructions
- Step 1: Brine the Chicken. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces. Place in a bowl with pickle juice and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Step 2: Prepare Breading Station. In one shallow dish, whisk egg and milk. In another, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Coat the Chicken. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry. First, dredge in flour mixture, then dip in egg wash, then dredge again in flour mixture. Place on a wire rack and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Step 4: Fry the Nuggets. Heat oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry chicken in batches for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature).
- Step 5: Drain and Season. Remove nuggets from oil and place on a wire rack over paper towels to drain. Immediately sprinkle with extra salt if desired. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins