Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe

If you are craving that irresistible, crispy, tender chicken that Chick-fil-A is famous for but want to make it right at home with a healthier twist, you are going to love this Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe. This recipe captures everything you adore about those golden nuggets—juicy inside, perfectly seasoned, with a delightful crunch—without needing to step foot in a fast-food restaurant. It’s an easy, fun project that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas, and the air fryer makes it quick and guilt-free. Trust me, once you master this recipe, these nuggets will become a fast favorite in your house.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create extraordinary flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s the seasoning for that signature taste, the powdered sugar adding a subtle sweetness, or the flour providing the perfect crispy coating.

• 1 – 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish; cutting into bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and perfect nugget sizes.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Adds a savory depth that wakes up your taste buds with every bite.
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt: A flavorful mix that layers complexity into the chicken’s seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon pepper: Delivers a subtle kick that balances the other spices beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth adding a subtle but distinctive character.
• 2 cups flour: The essential base for crispiness; coats the chicken perfectly when combined with powdered sugar.
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar: The secret ingredient for that hint of sweetness that makes these nuggets unforgettable.
• 1 egg, beaten: Helps the flour coat stick, creating that irresistible crunchy crust.
• 1 cup milk: Keeps the egg wash smooth and ensures every nugget is thoroughly coated.
• Spray olive oil: Gives the nuggets a golden finish in the air fryer without excess grease.

How to Make Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-size pieces, just like the nuggets you love. Sprinkle them generously with garlic salt, seasoned salt, and pepper to build the foundation for that unmistakable Chick-fil-A flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a medium bowl, crack one egg and beat it with a whisk until it turns a lemon yellow with a frothy texture. This is key for helping the coating stick beautifully to each nugget.

Step 3: Combine Milk and Egg

Add one cup of milk to your beaten egg and stir gently. This mixture creates a smooth, luscious coating bath that ensures the flour adheres without clumping.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large Ziploc bag, combine two cups of flour with one-third cup of powdered sugar. Seal and shake well to blend these dry ingredients uniformly, setting the stage for a perfect crust.

Step 5: Dip the Chicken Pieces

Dip each seasoned chicken nugget into the milk and egg mixture, coating it thoroughly. Then transfer several pieces to the flour and powdered sugar mixture inside the bag—about 20 at a time works well.

Step 6: Coat the Nuggets

Seal the top of the bag tightly to avoid any flour spills and gently shake to evenly coat each chicken piece with the sweetened flour. This step is fun and ensures every bite is crunchy and flavorful.

Step 7: Prepare for Air Frying

Place the breaded chicken pieces into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray the nuggets lightly with olive oil spray to promote a golden, crispy finish during cooking.

Step 8: Air Fry the Nuggets

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the nuggets for 12 minutes. This temperature and time combination delivers a perfect balance between juiciness and crunch.

Step 9: Flip and Spray Halfway

Halfway through cooking, open the air fryer to turn the chicken nuggets over. Give the other side a quick spray of olive oil to ensure an even, crispy texture all around.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Once golden and cooked through, remove the nuggets from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Serve immediately and savor every bite of your homemade Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe.

How to Serve Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper on top elevates your nuggets visually and adds a fresh herbal contrast. You can also offer dipping sauces like honey mustard, Chick-fil-A sauce, or classic barbecue to keep things interesting and tasty.

Side Dishes

Pair your nuggets with crispy air fryer fries, a fresh coleslaw, or even a side salad for a balanced meal. Each side dish brings complementary textures and flavors, rounding out your homemade Chick-fil-A experience at the dinner table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your nuggets in mini slider buns with pickles for a nugget sandwich or present them on a colorful platter alongside assorted sauces and raw veggie sticks—perfect for sharing and snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover nuggets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked nuggets by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen nuggets maintain their taste and texture for up to a month and are great for quick meals later on.

Reheating

To reheat your frozen or refrigerated nuggets, pop them back in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. This method brings back their crunchy exterior and juicy tenderness without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will provide a slightly richer flavor and remain juicy, but be sure to trim excess fat and adjust cooking times slightly if pieces are larger.

Is powdered sugar really necessary in the flour coating?

Yes, the powdered sugar adds that subtle sweetness that sets this Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe apart from other recipes. It’s a small ingredient that makes a big difference in balance and authenticity.

Can I bake these nuggets instead of using an air fryer?

You can bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. While they may not be as crispy as air-fried, baking is a suitable alternative.

How do I make sure the nuggets stay juicy inside?

Cutting your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces helps them cook evenly. Also, avoid overcooking—they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the outside is golden.

What dipping sauces pair best with these nuggets?

Classic Chick-fil-A sauce, honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy buffalo sauce are fantastic choices. Feel free to mix and match based on your flavor mood that day!

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Air Fryer Chick Fil A Nuggets Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a beloved fast-food classic right at home, with the added benefits of simple ingredients and guilt-free cooking. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep handy for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time a craving strikes. Once you try making these crispy, juicy nuggets yourself, you just might never want to order out again! Happy cooking and happy munching!

Print