Gluten-Free Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Introduction

These gluten-free Chick-fil-A style chicken nuggets offer a crispy, flavorful bite without any gluten. Marinated in a tangy blend of buttermilk and pickle juice, they bring a delightful crunch and juicy tenderness perfect for a homemade treat.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken tenders
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup pickle juice
• 1 tbsp gluten-free all purpose flour (for marinade)
• 1 ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 to 1½ cups high-temperature oil (for frying)
• 1 cup gluten-free all purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp season salt or all purpose seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the chicken tenders into 2-3 pieces each, adjusting to your preferred nugget size.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, add 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the chicken pieces. Mix well to coat evenly.
3. Step 3: Pour the buttermilk and pickle juice over the chicken mixture and stir until the chicken is fully coated.
4. Step 4: Let the chicken marinate for at least 45 to 60 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
5. Step 5: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches frying temperature.
6. Step 6: Whisk together the dredging ingredients: gluten-free flour, powdered sugar, season salt, salt, and pepper.
7. Step 7: Working in batches, coat the marinated chicken pieces thoroughly in the dredge mixture, then carefully drop them into the hot oil.
8. Step 8: Fry the nuggets until they are golden brown and cooked through, then remove and drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispy nuggets, double dredge by dipping the coated chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and then into the flour mix again before frying.
• Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper in the dredge for a smoky or spicy kick.
• If you prefer baking over frying, bake nuggets at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage

Store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to help retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, you can. Just cut the chicken breast into smaller pieces similar in size to tenders so they cook evenly and remain juicy.

Is pickle juice necessary for the marinade?

The pickle juice adds a signature tang and tenderizes the chicken, helping to mimic the Chick-fil-A flavor. You can omit it, but the taste will be less authentic.

Gluten-Free Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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4.4 from 112 reviews

These Gluten-Free Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets are a crispy, flavorful homemade alternative to the fast-food classic. Marinated in buttermilk and pickle juice, coated with a seasoned gluten-free flour mixture, and fried to golden perfection, these nuggets deliver delicious taste while catering to gluten-free dietary needs.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings (approximately 16-20 nuggets) 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Chicken and Marinade

• 2 lbs chicken tenders
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup pickle juice
• 1 tbsp gluten-free all purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp salt

Dredge and Frying

• 1 to 1½ cups high-temperature oil (depending on frying method)
• 1 cup gluten-free all purpose flour
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp season salt or all purpose seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken tenders into 2-3 pieces each, depending on your preferred nugget size.
2. Season Chicken: In a bowl, combine 1 tbsp gluten-free flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken pieces and mix well to coat evenly.
3. Marinate: Pour buttermilk and pickle juice over the seasoned chicken. Stir until fully incorporated and let marinate for at least 45 to 60 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and tenderness.
4. Heat Oil: Heat 1 to 1½ cups high-temperature oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking (around 350°F or 175°C).
5. Prepare Dredge: Whisk together gluten-free flour, powdered sugar, seasoning salt, salt, and pepper to create the coating mixture.
6. Coat Nuggets: Drop a few pieces of marinated chicken into the flour mixture, coating each piece well on all sides.
7. Fry Nuggets: Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per batch, turning as needed to ensure even cooking.
8. Drain and Serve: Remove nuggets from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

• Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at around 350°F for best frying results.
• Marinating overnight intensifies flavor and results in a juicier nugget.
• Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
• Adjust nugget size according to personal preference but keep pieces uniform for even cooking.
• If preferred, bake the coated nuggets at 400°F for 15-20 minutes as a lower-fat alternative, flipping halfway through.

Keywords: Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets, Chick-fil-A Style Nuggets, Fried Chicken Nuggets, Gluten-Free Fried Chicken