These Chick Fil A grilled nuggets are the copycat recipe you didn’t know you’d been craving until now. If recreating your favorite quick-serve meals at home excites you, you might also appreciate these Starbucks-style egg white sandwiches or this Panera-inspired Turkey BLT .
A TRIBUTE TO CHICK-FIL-A
Chick-fil-A has carved out a unique space in the hearts of many, thanks to its iconic fried chicken sandwich. However, for those who are mindful of their diet, the Chick-fil-A grilled chicken nuggets with a fruit cup is a straightforward, health-conscious choice.
These nuggets are a great option, packing just 130 calories, 3g of fat, and an impressive 25 of protein per 8-piece serving, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Chick-fil-A Style Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (halved or pounded to even thickness)
- 1/4 cup dill pickle juice for marinade
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine pickle juice and milk. Add chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Season the Chicken:
- Remove from marinade, pat dry. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill:
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and grill marks form.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with sweet potato fries and honey mustard dipping sauce for an authentic Chick-fil-A style meal.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 550mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 31g |
Note: Values may vary slightly based on ingredients and portion size.
But if you’d like to save some cash and skip the trip to your local Chick-fil-A, this Chick-fil-A grilled nugget recipe is exactly what you need.
WHAT DO I NEED TO MAKE CHICK FIL A GRILLED CHICKEN NUGGETS
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity and speed, coming together quickly without the need for a trip to the grocery store.
To give the grilled nuggets their delicious flavor, you’ll need the following seasonings:
- Diced chicken breasts (use 2 to 3 large pieces)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Smoked Paprika
- Signature savory sauce
- Savory browning seasoning sauce
See, I mentioned that things were straightforward yet full of flavor.
WHAT DIPPING SAUCES CAN I USE
You can conveniently find Chick-fil-A’s classic dipping sauce in local grocery stores these days. However, if you’re looking to try something different, I recommend exploring some options from one of my favorite brands, G Hughes. Their sauces are noteworthy because they’re sugar-free and generally macro-friendly per serving.
The popular clucking dipping sauce almost perfectly replicates the original, while the honey mustard is my husband’s all-time favorite!
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THE CHICK FIL A GRILLED NUGGETS
Serving these nuggets is quite simple, as they can be paired with almost any side to suit your mood. While the classic waffle-cut fries available at your local store are a popular choice, here are a few more suggestions to consider:
- Roasted sweet potato wedges
- Ripple-cut fries
- Assorted fruit plate
- Oven-baked chips
- Pretzel Crisps
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO PREPARING GRILLED NUGGETS
Before diving into the preparation steps, let’s discuss the tools you’ll need. For the most flavorful results, it’s ideal to grill these nuggets on a gas or charcoal grill. If that’s not feasible, a grill pan on the stove or an air fryer can also be great alternatives.
To prepare these nuggets, first gather all your ingredients. Then, cut the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl or Ziploc bag.
Combine all the spices and seasonings in a small bowl, then pour the mixture over the nuggets. Allow them to marinate for a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes.
As the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan to a temperature of 350 – 375 degrees. Lightly spray it with a high smoke point oil, such as avocado or grapeseed oil. Once the grill is ready, arrange the nuggets evenly on it and cook each side for about 3 – 5 minutes, ensuring they are thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear.
When using a grill pan, cook the nuggets in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps each piece develop a proper crust and distinct grill marks.
Once the nuggets are fully cooked, take them off the heat and let them rest. Pair with your preferred dipping sauce and a side dish of your choice!
FAQ’s
What type of oil is used by Chick-fil-A for their grilled nuggets?
Chick-fil-A marinates their grilled nuggets in a flavorful mix of seasonings and cooks them using peanut oil. For a homemade Chick-fil-A copycat version, you can opt for avocado oil or olive oil for a lighter taste and a higher smoke point.
Can Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets fit into a keto diet?
Absolutely! Chick-fil-A’s grilled chicken nuggets are naturally low in carbs, so they’re perfect for keto diet plans and low-carb goals. Each 8-piece serving contains just 1g net carbs, making it a breeze to include them in your daily diet.
What is the calorie count of Chick-fil-A’s grilled nuggets?
An 8-piece serving of grilled nuggets provides approximately 130 calories, containing 3g of fat, 1g of total carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. This makes it a family-friendly choice that aligns well with various nutritional goals.
Is it possible to cook these copycat grilled nuggets using an air fryer?
Certainly! To air fry your nuggets, set the temperature to around 375°F and cook them until they are fully done. Ensure they’re arranged in a single layer to allow them to crisp up perfectly without overcrowding the basket.
Need more High Protein Inspiration? Try these other recipes:
Or if you need help hitting your protein goals, check out this 120g protein a day meal plan.
Who says grilled nuggets can’t be exciting? With this simple copycat Chick-fil-A recipe, you can enjoy that juicy perfection right at home whenever you crave it. Whether you’re focusing on macros, sticking to a keto diet, or just need a protein-packed snack, these grilled nuggets are your go-to choice!