Go Back

Chick-fil-A Copycat Grilled Nuggets

Enjoy a homemade version of Chick-fil-A's famous grilled nuggets with this easy recipe that allows you to control the ingredients and flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/3 cup olive oil plus more for the pan
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Main Dish
  • 2 pounds chicken tenderloins, sliced and patted dry cut into 2-inch pieces

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine all marinade ingredients into a mason jar with a lid and shake rapidly to emulsify (or use a food processor).
  2. Add the diced chicken into a zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Remove excess air from the bag and seal it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Cooking
  1. When ready to cook, drain out and discard the excess marinade from the bag.
  2. Use a ridged grill pan (a cast iron grill pan works well). Add a few tablespoons of olive oil into the pan and grease the raised ridges with a basting brush or paper towel.
  3. Heat the pan to medium. Allow it to preheat for at least five minutes.
  4. Add in the chicken and cook untouched for about 4 minutes or until they easily release when flipping.
  5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165 degrees).

Notes

Make sure to dry the chicken well before marinating to help the flavors stick. Allow the chicken to marinate for as long as possible for the best flavor. Don't overcrowd the grill pan; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking. You can customize the marinade by adding different spices or herbs based on your taste.