Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets (Copycat Recipe)
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Skip the drive-thru and make these Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets at home! They’re juicy, flavorful and easy to make with a few pantry staples. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
I grew up loving Chick-fil-A, and their grilled nuggets were always one of my go-to favorites. Over the years I’ve shared copycat versions of their baked chicken nuggets, Chick-fil-A sauce and kale crunch salad, so it only felt right to recreate their grilled nuggets at home too.
These nuggets are juicy, flavorful and packed with protein, just like the ones from the restaurant. If you’ve ever craved Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets but wanted a healthier homemade version, this recipe is going to hit the spot.
Why I Love These Grilled Chicken Nuggets
I’ve tested these grilled nuggets a handful of times, and they really do taste just like the Chick-fil-A ones I used to love. Here’s why I think you’ll love them too:
- Meal prep approved: Make a batch and enjoy them all week in salads, wraps or on their own.
- Better-for-you: Same flavor as Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets, but made at home with wholesome ingredients and no fillers, MSG or seed oils.
- Quick, easy and cheaper: No need to hop in the car or wait in the drive-thru line. These nuggets come together with pantry staples in just minutes, and they cost less too.
- Kid-friendly: My kids devoured these, which makes them a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients Needed
- chicken breast – boneless, skinless chicken breast works best here. It’s lean, high in protein, and easy to cut into bite-sized nuggets.
- water + lemon juice – this combo keeps the chicken juicy and tender. The lemon adds just a touch of tang that balances the savory flavors.
- avocado oil (or olive oil) – adds richness and helps the nuggets get that perfect char on the grill.
- honey or maple syrup – a hint of sweetness to balance the savory marinade, just like the Chick-fil-A version.
- garlic powder and onion powder – pantry staples that give the nuggets their classic savory flavor.
Find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets
Step 1: Combine chicken, lemon juice, oil, water and seasonings in a bowl or bag. Stir to coat and marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Step 2: Drain excess marinade. Then heat and lightly grease a grill, grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Place chicken in a single layer (skewers optional) and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through and internal temp reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Let rest a few minutes, then enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Nuggets
- Marinate long enough: The recipe works with just 30 minutes of marinating, but if you can, let the chicken sit for 4–6 hours. The longer soak makes the nuggets even more flavorful and tender.
- Grill pan, outdoor grill or skillet: An outdoor grill gives the most smoky flavor, and a grill pan is perfect for busy weeknights. No grill? You can also cook these nuggets in a regular skillet on the stovetop. They’ll still be juicy and flavorful, just without the grill marks.
- Double the batch: These nuggets reheat beautifully, so if you’re already firing up the grill, make extra for easy meal prep.
- Skewer trick: Thread the nuggets onto short skewers (spaced out so they don’t touch) to flip a whole row at once. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes first so they don’t burn.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Nuggets
These copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets are perfect for dipping, pairing, or building into a full meal. They taste just like the drive-thru version, but you get to enjoy them fresh at home with your favorite sauces and sides.
With a Favorite Sauce
- Healthy Chick-fil-A sauce – my personal favorite! Creamy, tangy and just like the classic.
- Yum yum sauce – creamy, tangy and addictive.
- Easy homemade BBQ sauce – smoky-sweet perfection.
- Cottage cheese ranch dip – a protein-packed twist on ranch.
- Honey mustard dressing – sweet, tangy and so good with chicken.
With a Tasty Side
- Air fryer french fries – crispy and golden without the oil.
- Baked zucchini fries – a lighter, veggie-forward option.
- Baked sweet potato fries – naturally sweet and satisfying.
- Kale crunch salad (Chick-fil-A copycat) – the ultimate pairing.
- Air fryer vegetables – quick, healthy and full of flavor.
How to Store & Reheat
Let the nuggets cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes or in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes. This keeps them tender and juicy instead of dried out.
More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
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Chick-Fil-A Grilled Nuggets
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 Tablespoons water
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add the chicken, water, lemon juice, oil, salt, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, pepper and parsley to a bowl or zip-top bag. Stir to coat well, cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Drain off any excess marinade. Heat a grill, grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray.
- Place the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temp should be 165°F.
- Let rest for a couple of minutes, then serve and enjoy! Perfect with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a homemade Chick-fil-A dipping sauce.
Notes
- Skewer trick: Thread nuggets onto skewers (space them out so they aren’t touching) for easy flipping. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes first.
- Marinade timing: Even 30 minutes gives good flavor, but for best results marinate 4–6 hours. Just don’t marinate for more than 12 hours. The lemon juice is acidic and can change the texture of the chicken if it sits too long.
- Cooking options: You can use an outdoor grill, grill pan, or even a regular skillet on the stovetop. A skillet won’t give grill marks, but the nuggets will still be juicy and flavorful.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through. Nuggets can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like This Recipe? Rate & Comment Below!
Hi!! Can’t wait to try these. Have you used the air fryer for these?
Hi Kayla – I haven’t tested these in the air fryer yet, but I bet they would turn out great. I’d try cooking them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. If you give it a go, let me know how they turn out!
I’m obsessed with this recipe! It’s so easy and delicious. I love serving them with the Primal Kitchen chicken sauce. SO good!
Woo!! So glad you enjoyed the recipe, Emily. Thanks for coming back to leave a review. I so appreciate it. 🙂