Almost Chick Fil-A Chicken Nuggets

What Makes These Nuggets “Almost” Chick-fil-A?

They’re called “Almost” because while they aren’t the exact top-secret Chick-fil-A recipe, they come incredibly close. The flavor profile—seasoned, tender chicken in a golden, crispy breading—is unmistakably similar.

And let’s be honest: sometimes the best version is the one you make yourself. These nuggets offer all the deliciousness of your favorite fast-food classic, with the added bonus of control over ingredients and portion sizes.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Nuggets

• Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside: That golden, crunchy coating with flavorful, tender chicken inside? It’s everything you want in a nugget.

• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples like flour, buttermilk, and a few spices are all you need.

• Healthier and More Affordable: Skip the fast-food price tag and preservatives—this version is made with real chicken and no hidden extras.

• Family-Friendly: These nuggets are always a hit with kids and adults alike.

And if you’re hooked after trying these, don’t miss our Honey Mustard Chicken—another comfort-food favorite!

How to Make Almost Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets

Quick Overview

These nuggets come together fast: marinate, bread, fry, and enjoy. From prep to plate in about 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• Oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken
   Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks—about nugget size.

2. Marinate
   In a bowl, mix buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and stir to coat. Marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge.

3. Bread the Nuggets
   Place flour in a shallow bowl. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge each piece in flour until fully coated.

4. Fry
   Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat—enough to cover the bottom of the pan. Fry nuggets in batches, 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internally).

5. Drain and Serve
   Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces!

What to Serve With Homemade Nuggets

Turn your nuggets into a full meal with classic sides like:

• Crispy French fries

• Coleslaw

• Mac and cheese

• Sweet potato fries

• Garden salad

Don’t forget sauces! Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, or a homemade Chick-fil-A–style dipping sauce are all great options.

Tips for Perfect Nuggets

• Customize the Coating: Add cayenne for heat or a pinch of sugar for that signature sweet-savory flavor.

• Fry in Small Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan so the nuggets stay crispy.

• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure each nugget hits 165°F inside.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? Lucky you!

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freeze cooked nuggets for up to 2 months.

• Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until hot and crispy

Almost Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets

Delicious and easy-to-make chicken nuggets that capture the essence of Chick-fil-A's famous recipe, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: American, Fast Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk For marinating the chicken
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour For breading the chicken
• as needed Oil for frying Enough to cover the bottom of the pan

Method

 

Preparation

1. Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, making sure each one is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
3. On a separate plate, pour your flour. After marinating, take each chicken piece out and dredge it in the flour.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, heat enough oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add your chicken nuggets. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary.
3. Transfer the cooked nuggets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serving

1. Serve the nuggets warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Customize spices if desired, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying, and use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.