Description

Chick-fil-A’s chicken nuggets have earned a special place in the hearts of fast-food lovers worldwide. Known for their tender and juicy texture, coupled with a perfectly seasoned coating, these nuggets are a delight to the taste buds. Recreating this fan favorite at home can be both satisfying and enjoyable. Whether you are cooking for a family gathering or a casual snack, making Chick-fil-A-style nuggets is easier than you think. With the right ingredients and technique, you can prepare these savory nuggets in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken bouillon cubes
• 2 1/2 teaspoons Morton Season-All or seasoned salt
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• Peanut oil for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs
• 2 teaspoons powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Begin by preparing the marinade. Dissolve the two chicken bouillon cubes in 2 cups of cool water. To this, add 1/4 teaspoon of Morton Season-All or seasoned salt. Place the cubed chicken breast into the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken. This step is crucial for achieving the tender and flavorful chicken nuggets that closely resemble Chick-fil-A’s signature taste.

Step 2: Preparing the Coating

The coating is what gives the nuggets their satisfying crunch. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs, 2 teaspoons of powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. This mixture will form the golden, crispy layer on the nuggets.

Step 3: Prepping the Oil

In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat peanut oil to 350°F (175°C). If you're using a pot, make sure to add enough oil so that it’s about 4 inches deep. Peanut oil is ideal for frying because it has a high smoke point, ensuring a crispy exterior without burning.

Step 4: Coating the Chicken

After marinating overnight, pour off and discard the excess liquid from the chicken. Now, take each piece of chicken and coat it in the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer of seasoning. Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack and let them rest for a few minutes. This rest period allows the coating to adhere better, leading to a crispier result during frying.

Step 5: Frying the Chicken Nuggets

Once your oil has reached 350°F, begin frying the chicken nuggets in small batches. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color and are cooked through. Be sure not to overcrowd the fryer or pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy nuggets. Once they’re golden brown, remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Tips and Conclusion

Marinade Time: If you're short on time, you can marinate the chicken for just 4 hours, but overnight marination yields the best results.
Cracker Crumbs: Make sure to crush the saltine crackers as finely as possible. This will create a smoother and more even coating.
Temperature Check: To ensure your nuggets are thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Oil Maintenance: If you are frying in batches, remember to check the oil temperature between each batch to maintain consistent heat.

Making Chick-fil-A-style chicken nuggets at home is a rewarding experience. With a simple marinade, flavorful coating, and the right frying technique, you can enjoy crispy, juicy nuggets that rival the original. These homemade nuggets are perfect for a family meal, party appetizer, or even a fun weekend cooking project. By following the steps in this recipe and incorporating the extra tips, you'll be able to recreate the iconic Chick-fil-A flavor in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!