Chick-Fil-A style grilled nuggets

Written By Frank Zocco

Marinade

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1–1¼” pieces

  • 1 cup cold water

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tsp kosher salt

  • 2 tsp sugar

  • 1 tsp molasses or (1 tbsp brown sugar omit sugar)

  • 1 tsp chicken Better Than Bouillon

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 3/4 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp paprika

  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp neutral oil

  • 1/8 tsp liquid smoke

  • Optional but worthwhile: 1/2 tsp MSG

Marinate 2–4 hours refrigerated

Then drain it well and pat the exterior fairly dry. Toss with another teaspoon or so of oil.

Cook on a very hot grill or cast iron, preferably around 450°F+, getting some actual char on the pieces. Don’t crowd them. Pull the chicken around 160–162°F and let carryover finish it.

Frank Zocco
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