Fakeout Kitchen

Chick-fil-A-Style Chicken Nuggets

Indulge in that iconic signature crunch using wholesome avocado oil and organic spices for a nutrient-dense alternative.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb organic chicken breast, diced into 1-inch nuggets
  • 1 cup organic full-fat yogurt
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups organic panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil (for the coating)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp organic avocado oil (for searing)

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

  • Canola or soybean oil (restaurant standard) → Avocado oil — Eliminates inflammatory industrial seed oils.
  • Buttermilk milk → Organic yogurt and lemon juice — Avoids processed dairy additives while providing a probiotic-rich tenderizing agent.
  • MSG and artificial flavorings → Garlic powder and smoked paprika — Provides deep savory flavor without synthetic chemicals.

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the yogurt mixture, toss to coat, and marinate for 15 minutes.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Drizzle 2 tbsp of avocado oil into the breadcrumb mixture and toss to ensure even distribution.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, shake off excess liquid, and press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  6. Heat 2 tbsp of avocado oil in a heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Fry the nuggets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Drain on a wire rack to maintain crispiness before serving.

FAQ

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake on a parchment-lined tray for 15-20 minutes until golden.

How do I keep the breading crispy?

Always drain the nuggets on a wire rack rather than a paper towel, as this prevents steam from softening the crust.

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