Costco’s Chicken Nuggets: A Spot-On Chick-fil-A Copycat Recipe!

Craving the irresistibly juicy and flavorful chicken nuggets from Chick-fil-A but looking for a budget-friendly and readily available alternative? Look no further! Costco’s new Chicken Nuggets are causing a stir, with many claiming they’re a remarkably close dupe. This article dives deep into creating your own copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets using Costco’s offering as a base, transforming them into a truly exceptional and delicious meal. We’ll cover everything from prepping the nuggets to creating the signature Chick-fil-A-style breading and pressure-cooking (or pan-frying) them to golden perfection. Get ready to experience nugget nirvana without breaking the bank!

Why Costco Chicken Nuggets?

Costco’s Chicken Nuggets have gained popularity for several reasons:

* **Taste and Texture:** They are often described as having a similar taste and texture to Chick-fil-A nuggets, offering a satisfyingly tender and juicy interior with a slightly crispy exterior.
* **Convenience:** They’re pre-cooked and frozen, making them a convenient option for a quick and easy meal.
* **Value:** Costco’s bulk packaging provides a significant cost savings compared to buying nuggets individually from Chick-fil-A.

While they’re good on their own, with a little extra effort, you can elevate them to a whole new level of Chick-fil-A-esque deliciousness. This recipe focuses on enhancing the existing qualities of the Costco nuggets, not completely reinventing them. Think of it as a “hack” to get the desired flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients required for this copycat recipe. We’ll be using the Costco Chicken Nuggets as our base, and then adding ingredients to enhance their flavor and texture to more closely resemble Chick-fil-A’s iconic nuggets.

* **Costco Chicken Nuggets (Kirkland Signature Chicken Breast Nuggets):** This is the star of our show. The exact amount will depend on how many servings you’re making. A good starting point is about 2-3 pounds.
* **Pickle Juice:** This is a crucial ingredient! Chick-fil-A famously marinates their chicken in pickle juice, which contributes to its unique flavor and tenderness. We’ll use pickle juice as a quick marinade for the Costco nuggets. Look for dill pickle juice, preferably from a brand with a strong, tangy flavor.
* **Powdered Sugar:** A seemingly unusual addition, but powdered sugar is key to that signature Chick-fil-A sweetness. Just a touch is needed.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavor of the chicken and the breading.
* **Black Pepper:** Adds a subtle warmth and spice.
* **Paprika:** Contributes a smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the breading.
* **Garlic Powder:** A staple in savory breading recipes.
* **Onion Powder:** Complements the garlic powder and adds another layer of savory flavor.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** The base of our breading mixture.
* **Cornstarch:** Helps create a light and crispy breading.
* **Milk:** Used for the egg wash, which helps the breading adhere to the nuggets.
* **Egg:** Also part of the egg wash.
* **Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil):** For frying the nuggets. Peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and the flavor it imparts, but vegetable oil works just as well.
* **Optional: MSG (Monosodium Glutamate):** While controversial, a tiny pinch of MSG can help replicate the umami flavor found in Chick-fil-A nuggets. Use sparingly or omit if preferred.

Equipment Needed

* **Large Bowl:** For marinating the chicken nuggets.
* **Shallow Dishes or Plates:** For dredging the chicken nuggets in the breading mixture.
* **Whisk:** For combining the egg wash.
* **Deep Fryer or Large Pot/Dutch Oven:** For frying the nuggets.
* **Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker – Optional):** This can be used for achieving an incredibly tender and juicy nugget.
* **Tongs:** For handling the chicken nuggets during frying.
* **Wire Rack:** For draining excess oil from the fried nuggets.
* **Paper Towels:** For lining the wire rack and absorbing excess oil.
* **Thermometer:** To ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and walk through the process of transforming your Costco Chicken Nuggets into a Chick-fil-A-worthy treat.

**Step 1: The Pickle Juice Marinade**

This is the key to infusing the nuggets with that distinctive Chick-fil-A tang.

1. In a large bowl, combine the Costco Chicken Nuggets with ½ to 1 cup of pickle juice. The amount of pickle juice will depend on the amount of nuggets you are working with. Make sure the nuggets are mostly submerged.
2. Add 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. This might seem odd, but it really helps in getting the taste right.
3. Gently toss the nuggets to ensure they are evenly coated in the pickle juice mixture.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful and tender they will become. Don’t marinate for longer than 2 hours, as the pickle juice can start to break down the chicken too much.

**Step 2: Preparing the Breading Mixture**

This is where the magic happens! We’ll create a breading that mimics the texture and flavor of Chick-fil-A’s coating.

1. In a shallow dish or plate, combine the following ingredients:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* ½ cup cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons salt
* 1 tablespoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 tablespoon garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* Optional: 1/4 teaspoon MSG (use sparingly)
2. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This is crucial for a consistent flavor in the breading.

**Step 3: Preparing the Egg Wash**

This helps the breading adhere to the nuggets.

1. In another shallow dish or plate, whisk together:
* 1 large egg
* 1/4 cup milk

**Step 4: Breading the Nuggets**

Now for the fun part! This is where the nuggets start to transform.

1. Remove the chicken nuggets from the pickle juice marinade. Let excess pickle juice drip off. You can gently pat them dry with a paper towel if you prefer, but a little moisture helps the breading adhere.
2. Dredge each nugget in the flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Press the flour mixture onto the nugget to help it adhere.
3. Dip the floured nugget into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Dredge the nugget back in the flour mixture, again making sure it’s completely coated. Press the flour mixture onto the nugget to create a thick and even breading.
5. Place the breaded nugget on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process for all the remaining nuggets.

**Step 5: Cooking the Nuggets (Two Methods)**

You have two options for cooking the nuggets: pressure cooking in an Instant Pot followed by a quick pan-fry, or deep frying/pan frying alone. The Instant Pot method results in incredibly tender and juicy nuggets, while the frying method provides a crispy exterior. Both methods are delicious, so choose the one that best suits your preferences and equipment.

**Method 1: Instant Pot and Pan-Fry (for Extra Tender Nuggets)**

This method uses the Instant Pot to pre-cook the nuggets, resulting in an incredibly tender interior. Then, a quick pan-fry crisps up the breading.

1. **Instant Pot:** Place a trivet in the Instant Pot. Add 1 cup of water to the pot.
2. Arrange the breaded nuggets on the trivet in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your Instant Pot. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
3. Close the lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 2 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
5. Carefully remove the nuggets from the Instant Pot. They will be cooked through but not browned.
6. **Pan-Fry:** Heat about 1/2 inch of peanut oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a drop of water is added.
7. Carefully place the cooked nuggets in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the nuggets from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

**Method 2: Deep Fry or Pan-Fry (Traditional Method)**

This is the classic way to fry chicken nuggets. It’s simple and yields crispy results.

1. **Deep Fry (Preferred):** Fill a deep fryer with peanut oil (or vegetable oil) to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Preheat the oil to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
2. **Pan-Fry:** Heat about 1/2 inch of peanut oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a drop of water is added.
3. Carefully place the breaded nuggets in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer or pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy nuggets.
4. **Deep Fry:** Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Turn the nuggets halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
5. **Pan-Fry:** Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the nuggets from the fryer or skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

**Step 6: Serving and Enjoying**

Now comes the best part – enjoying your homemade Chick-fil-A-inspired nuggets!

1. Serve the nuggets immediately while they are hot and crispy.
2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces. Chick-fil-A sauce, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing are all classic choices.
3. Consider serving with waffle fries, a side salad, or mac and cheese for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks for Nugget Perfection

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan/Fryer:** This is crucial for achieving crispy nuggets. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, greasy nuggets. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Maintain Oil Temperature:** Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent temperature. This ensures the nuggets cook evenly and don’t absorb too much oil.
* **Use Fresh Oil:** Fresh oil will give you the best flavor and prevent the nuggets from tasting greasy. Avoid using oil that has been used for frying other foods, as it may have a lingering flavor.
* **Double Breading:** For an extra thick and crispy breading, double dredge the nuggets in the flour mixture. This will create a thicker coating that holds up well during frying.
* **Let the Nuggets Rest:** After frying, let the nuggets rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows excess oil to drain off and helps the breading stay crispy.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Feel free to adjust the spices in the breading mixture to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or use different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor.
* **Air Fryer Option:** While this recipe is optimized for frying, you can also try air frying the nuggets. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the nuggets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The results may not be quite as crispy as fried nuggets, but it’s a healthier alternative.
* **Freezing Leftovers:** If you have leftover nuggets, you can freeze them for later. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the frozen nuggets to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Consider Brining:** For even more flavor and juiciness, you can brine the Costco Chicken Nuggets before marinating them in pickle juice. Simply dissolve 1/4 cup of salt and 1/4 cup of sugar in 4 cups of water. Submerge the nuggets in the brine and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Rinse the nuggets well before proceeding with the pickle juice marinade.

Dipping Sauce Suggestions

No nugget experience is complete without delicious dipping sauces! Here are some suggestions to complement your copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets:

* **Chick-fil-A Sauce (Copycat Recipe):** This is the ultimate dipping sauce for Chick-fil-A nuggets. You can find numerous copycat recipes online, which typically involve combining mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, and a touch of lemon juice.
* **Honey Mustard:** A classic and crowd-pleasing choice. Use your favorite store-bought honey mustard or make your own by combining honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise.
* **Barbecue Sauce:** Another classic that pairs perfectly with chicken nuggets. Choose your favorite barbecue sauce, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or tangy.
* **Ranch Dressing:** A creamy and flavorful option that’s always a hit. Use your favorite store-bought ranch or make your own from scratch.
* **Sweet and Sour Sauce:** A sweet and tangy sauce that provides a nice contrast to the savory nuggets.
* **Buffalo Sauce:** For those who like a little heat, buffalo sauce is a great choice. Combine hot sauce with melted butter for a simple and delicious buffalo sauce.
* **Garlic Aioli:** A creamy and garlicky sauce that adds a touch of sophistication to your nugget experience.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an approximation and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size.*

* **Serving Size:** 4-5 nuggets
* **Calories:** 350-450
* **Fat:** 20-30g
* **Saturated Fat:** 5-8g
* **Cholesterol:** 80-100mg
* **Sodium:** 800-1000mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 20-30g
* **Fiber:** 1-2g
* **Sugar:** 5-10g
* **Protein:** 20-25g

Conclusion

With a few simple tweaks and additions, you can transform Costco’s Chicken Nuggets into a truly exceptional and craveable treat that rivals Chick-fil-A’s iconic nuggets. This copycat recipe is a budget-friendly and convenient way to satisfy your nugget cravings without sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you choose the Instant Pot method for extra tender nuggets or the traditional frying method for crispy perfection, you’re sure to be delighted with the results. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade chicken nuggets you’ve ever tasted! Don’t forget the dipping sauces!