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Keto Chick-fil-A Style Grilled Nuggets - Juicy, Flavorful, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1- to 1.5-inch nuggets
  • 1/2 cup dill pickle juice (from a jar of pickles; no added sugar)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or light olive oil)
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (helps with tenderness and browning)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon powdered erythritol or allulose (optional, for that subtle Chick-fil-A sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for basting)
  • Avocado oil spray (for the grill or skillet)

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken. Trim chicken breasts and cut into even nuggets, about 1 to 1.5 inches. Keeping pieces similar in size ensures they cook evenly.
  2. Brine in pickle juice. Add nuggets to a bowl or zip-top bag with the dill pickle juice. Chill for 20–30 minutes. Don’t go over an hour or the texture can get too soft.
  3. Mix the marinade. In a bowl, whisk avocado oil, heavy cream, vinegar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and sweetener if using.
  4. Drain and marinate. Drain the pickle juice and pat the chicken mostly dry with paper towels. Toss in the marinade and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. Even 20 minutes helps if you’re in a rush.
  5. Preheat your cooking surface. Heat a grill to medium-high (about 425–450°F) or a heavy skillet/grill pan over medium-high until hot. Lightly oil grates or spray the pan.
  6. Cook the nuggets. Place nuggets in a single layer without crowding. Grill or sear for 3–4 minutes per side until charred in spots and the center reaches 165°F. Work in batches if needed.
  7. Baste and rest. Optional but delicious: brush with melted butter in the last 30 seconds for extra richness. Transfer to a plate and rest for 3–5 minutes.
  8. Serve. Enjoy with a keto-friendly dipping sauce like sugar-free honey mustard, ranch, or a homemade smoky mayo. Great with a simple side salad or roasted veggies.