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chick fil a grilled nuggets recipe

taketorecipes
Craving Chick-fil-A's Grilled Nuggets? Whip up juicy, healthy copycat nuggets at home in 30 mins—gluten-free & dairy-free!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4 slices
Calories 196 kcal

Ingredients
  

What You’ll Need:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts – Trim excess fat and cut into 1.5” nuggets. Pro tip: Freeze the chicken for 15 minutes first for easier slicing!
  • ¾ cup dill pickle juice – The secret to tender tangy nuggets! Use leftover brine from your pickle jar.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – For grilling. Avocado oil works too.
  • 1 tbsp honey – Balances the tang. Swap with maple syrup for vegan flair.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika – Adds that signature smoky depth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder – For savory warmth.
  • ½ tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked is best.

Optional Boosters:

  • 1 tsp onion powder – For extra umami.
  • ½ tsp cayenne – A spicy kick!

Instructions
 

Step 1: Marinate Like a Pro

  • In a zip-top bag, combine chicken, pickle juice, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Seal tightly, massage gently to coat, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours). Tip: Over-marinating? Skip the worry—pickle juice won’t make the chicken mushy!

Step 2: Preheat & Prep

  • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat (375°F). Brush lightly with olive oil.
  • Drain marinade and pat chicken gently with paper towels. Why? Dry surfaces = better sear!

Step 3: Grill to Glory

  • Arrange nuggets in a single layer (no crowding!). Grill 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temp hits 165°F.
  • Craving char? Press nuggets lightly with a spatula for deeper grill marks.

Step 4: Rest & Devour

  • Let nuggets rest 3 minutes off heat. Patience pays! This locks in juices for that iconic Chick-fil-A tenderness.

Air Fryer Shortcut:

  • Skip the grill! Toss marinated nuggets in a 400°F air fryer for 8-10 minutes—shake halfway.

Notes

why You’ll Love This Recap
  • Quick & Clear: All essentials in one spot for easy reference.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, with dairy-free options.
  • Meal Prep MVP: Cook once, enjoy all week!
Pro Tip: Double the batch and freeze for future cravings!
Ready to grill? Tag your creations—we’d love to see your kitchen wins!
Keyword Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets, healthy copycat recipe