Name: Copycat Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets with Homemade Chick Fil A Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into chunks; 1 cup dill pickle juice; ½ cup whole milk; 1 cup all purpose flour; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 3 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 2 tsp salt; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp black pepper; Peanut oil*, for frying (at least 1″ deep)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 15 reviews

If you have ever longed to enjoy that perfect, tender, and crispy bite of Chick Fil A chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen, you are in for a treat. This Copycat Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets with Homemade Chick Fil A Sauce Recipe brings the iconic fast-food favorite right to your table, bursting with flavor and that uniquely delicious coating that keeps you coming back for more. You get the tangy kick from pickle juice, the perfect crunch, and a homemade sauce that complements each nugget like a dream. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at chicken nuggets the same way again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with eight distinct piles of dry spices and seasonings arranged in a circular pattern within the bowl. The layers include a light tan powder, a bright white powder, a pale beige scoop, a warm reddish-brown spice, cracked black pepper, granulated white salt, light brown granules, and a medium beige powder, each forming separate small mounds that together cover the bottom of the bowl. To the upper right of the bowl is a clear plastic bag containing sliced pieces of light-colored food soaking in a white liquid. A dark gray textured cloth is partially visible in the top left corner of the frame. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, straightforward, and essential—that’s what makes the ingredients in this recipe a winner. Each element plays a critical part in delivering the chicken nuggets’ incredible flavor, texture, and color you crave.

3 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast: Provides tender, juicy meat perfect for nugget-sized pieces.
1 cup dill pickle juice: The secret ingredient that adds a subtle tang and keeps the chicken extra juicy.
½ cup whole milk: Helps tenderize and balance the marinade alongside the pickle juice.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the crispy base of the breading.
1 cup plain breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch and texture to each bite.
3 tbsp powdered sugar: Balances savory and tangy flavors with a hint of sweetness.
1 tbsp garlic powder: Infuses savory depth into the breading mix.
2 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
2 tsp paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky note for richness.
1 tsp baking powder: Gives the crust a delightful lightness and crispness.
1 tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle peppery warmth.
Peanut oil (for frying): The key to achieving the authentic Chick Fil A flavor and golden crust.

How to Make Copycat Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets with Homemade Chick Fil A Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by placing the chicken chunks into a large zip-close bag then pour in the dill pickle juice and whole milk. Seal the bag and gently squish everything around so each piece gets lovingly coated. Let the chicken marinate for 20 to 30 minutes—you’ll notice the tangy pickle juice tenderizes and brightens the chicken, making it extra flavorful from the inside out.

Step 2: Prepare the Oil

While the chicken marinates, heat at least an inch of peanut oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using peanut oil is crucial here because it imparts that signature Chick Fil A taste and ensures a crisp, golden crust that doesn’t get greasy.

Step 3: Mix the Breading

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, plain breadcrumbs, powdered sugar, garlic powder, paprika, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk this mixture thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly—this blend creates the crave-worthy coating that’s a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Drain the marinade from your chicken pieces and discard the liquid. Working with small batches, dip each piece into the crumb mixture, pressing gently to coat every surface. This careful coating step ensures maximum crunch and flavor in every single nugget.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Carefully add coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying in small batches so the oil temperature stays steady. Fry for about 3 to 5 minutes or until your nuggets achieve a beautiful deep golden color and an irresistible crunch. Remove nuggets and set them on a wire rack to drain and cool slightly—this keeps your nuggets crisp instead of soggy. Repeat until all chicken pieces are fried to perfection.

How to Serve Copycat Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets with Homemade Chick Fil A Sauce Recipe

Several pieces of golden brown fried chicken with a crispy texture are spread out in rows on a cooling rack above a metal tray. The chicken pieces are irregular in shape and have a rough, crunchy coating with some darker spots showing where the frying made them extra crisp. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little finely diced tomato adds a pop of color that brightens the plate and complements the golden nuggets beautifully. For an extra touch, offer a small side of crisp dill pickle slices to echo the marinade flavor teasing your palate.

Side Dishes

Pair these nuggets with classic fries or sweet potato fries for a total comfort food experience. A fresh, crunchy coleslaw or tangy mac and cheese also balances the richness and adds variety to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the nuggets in a fun takeaway-style basket lined with parchment paper to mimic the Chick Fil A vibe. Or go fancy by skewering nuggets on wooden sticks for an easy-to-eat party appetizer. Offering your homemade Chick Fil A sauce in mini dipping bowls encourages everyone to dive in and savor every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Letting them cool completely before sealing helps maintain their crispy crunch when reheated later.

Freezing

For longer storage, arrange the fully cooked nuggets on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly frozen, these nuggets can stay fresh for up to a month—perfect for quick meals on busy days.

Reheating

To revive the crispy texture, reheat nuggets in an air fryer or oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that satisfying crunch intact!

FAQs

Can I use other oils instead of peanut oil?

Yes, you can use canola or vegetable oil if peanut oil isn’t an option, but peanut oil provides the authentic Chick Fil A flavor and the best frying results.

What cuts of chicken are best for making nuggets?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they’re lean and tender, but chicken tenders also work well if you want even more juicy bites.

Is the pickle juice marinade necessary?

Absolutely. The pickle juice tenderizes the chicken and imparts a subtle tang that’s signature to Chick Fil A’s flavor profile.

Can I make the homemade Chick Fil A sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. The sauce actually tastes better after resting for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How do I know when the oil temperature is right?

Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain 350 degrees Fahrenheit; if the oil is too cool, nuggets absorb too much oil and get greasy; too hot, and they’ll burn outside before cooking through.

Final Thoughts

Making these Copycat Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets with Homemade Chick Fil A Sauce Recipe at home is not only incredibly satisfying but also a wonderful way to enjoy a beloved comfort food anytime you want. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll be serving up crunchy, juicy nuggets surrounded by that creamy, tangy sauce homemade just for you. Give this recipe a try—you may just skip the drive-through forever!