What ingredients are in Chick-fil-A grilled chicken nuggets?

Chick-fil-A keeps their full recipe under wraps, but we know their grilled nuggets are made from boneless chicken breast , marinated in a blend that likely includes pickle juice, milk, apple cider vinegar, and a mix of spices like paprika and garlic powder. The flavor is smoky, slightly tangy, and super juicy. If you want a solid homemade version, the chick fil a grilled nuggets recipe we shared above nails it with simple pantry ingredients and big flavor.

What does Chick-fil-A marinate their grilled chicken in?

While the exact blend is top secret, former employees and copycat cooks agree: the marinade likely includes dill pickle juice , milk or buttermilk , and some combination of herbs, sugar, and vinegar . It’s all about tenderizing the chicken and building that signature taste from the inside out.

Does Chick-fil-A marinate their chicken nuggets in pickle juice?

Most signs point to yes. The brand hasn’t confirmed it publicly, but pickle juice is widely believed to be the key player in tenderizing and flavoring their grilled (and maybe even fried) nuggets. It’s tangy, salty, and gives the chicken that juicy bite Chick-fil-A is famous for. Try it yourself with the homemade chick fil a grilled nuggets recipe in this post — you’ll taste the difference.

Are Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets healthy?

Definitely one of the better fast food picks out there. They’re low in fat, high in protein , and have just 130 calories for 8 pieces . If you’re cutting carbs or watching sodium, making them at home is even better — you control the ingredients, oils, and salt levels.

Chick Fil A Grilled Nuggets Recipe – The Best 7-Step Guide

Description

This Chick Fil A Grilled Nuggets Recipe brings the juicy, smoky flavor of the original straight to your kitchen. It’s healthier, quick to prep, and perfect for meal prep, kids, or clean eating lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
½ cup dill pickle juice
¼ cup milk or buttermilk
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Add chicken pieces, coat evenly, and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat grill pan or skillet to medium-high heat and brush lightly with oil.
Grill nuggets for 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through and lightly charred.
Let rest 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

For best results, marinate overnight.
Great for freezing: cook first, then freeze and reheat in an air fryer.
Serve with mac and cheese, roasted veggies, or over a salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (+ 2 hours marinate)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snack
Method: Grilling or Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: ~8 nuggets
Calories: 115
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 310mg
Fat: 2.5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 70mg