Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe: A Delicious Treat

Craving the irresistible taste of Chick-Fil-A’s beloved breakfast treat but stuck at home or facing a closed restaurant on a Sunday? The Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe is your savior! This recipe brings the unique flavor and comfort of Chick-Fil-A’s Chicken Minis right into your kitchen. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this homemade version promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this fast-food favorite, capturing the essence of its crispy, tender, and flavorful experience at home.

Ingredients for Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe

To recreate the magic of Chick-Fil-A’s Chicken Minis, you’ll need specific ingredients that contribute to their unique flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dill Pickle Juice: Essential for marinating the chicken, adding a unique tang and tenderness.
Sugar: A small amount to balance the brine’s flavor.
Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Buttermilk: For the dredge, giving the chicken its tangy coating.
Cayenne Pepper: A pinch for a subtle heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Egg: Helps the flour mixture adhere to the chicken.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of your crispy coating.
Cornstarch: Mixed with flour, it helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Powdered Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to the coating, mimicking Chick-Fil-A’s signature taste.
Powdered Milk: Enhances the flavor of the breading.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning the flour mixture.
Paprika: Adds a mild, peppery flavor.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Helps the crust puff up and become crispy.
Peanut Oil: For frying, it has a high smoke point and neutral taste.
Parker House Rolls: The soft, buttery rolls are ideal for making these mini sandwiches.
Butter and Honey: For brushing on the rolls, adding a sweet and rich finish.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a delightful breakfast or snack that replicates the Chick-Fil-A experience right in your own kitchen!

For more on choosing the right ingredients, check out Southern Living’s take on this recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide for Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe

Creating your own Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis at home is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken minis are as delicious as the originals!

Brining the Chicken

Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, mix together the dill pickle juice and a tablespoon of sugar.
Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, similar to the size of the original Chicken Minis. Place these pieces into the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight in the refrigerator.

Preparing the Dredge Station

Mix the Wet Ingredients: In one bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional), and an egg.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, powdered sugar, powdered milk, a teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper, and a half teaspoon of paprika.

Coating and Frying the Chicken

Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the brine and pat them dry. Dip each piece first in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk mixture, and again in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
Chill the Coated Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack and let them chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This step helps the coating stick better.
Fry the Chicken: Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook each piece until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, transfer them to a clean wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Preparing and Baking the Rolls

Prepare the Rolls: If you’re using store-bought Parker House Rolls, thaw them if they’re frozen. Or make your own following a recipe from Play.Party.Plan.
Add the Finishing Touch: Melt some butter and mix it with honey. Brush this mixture over the rolls and bake them according to the package instructions or your recipe until they are golden brown.

Assembling the Chicken Minis

Assemble the Sandwiches: Once the rolls are baked and the chicken is fried, assemble your Chicken Minis. Slice each roll in half and place a piece of fried chicken inside. Serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or a delightful snack any day of the week!

Looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your Chicken Minis? Our Velveeta Mac and Cheese recipe is a comfort food classic that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions for Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe

Once you’ve mastered the Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe, it’s time to think about how to serve them. These mini sandwiches are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a part of a larger breakfast spread or as a standalone snack. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Chicken Minis experience:

Classic Breakfast: Serve your Chicken Minis with traditional breakfast sides like scrambled eggs, hash browns, or a fruit salad. This combination makes for a hearty and fulfilling breakfast.
Brunch Delight: For a brunch gathering, pair the Chicken Minis with mimosas or your favorite coffee. Add sides like breakfast sausages, bacon, or a fresh green salad to create a well-rounded brunch menu.
Kid-Friendly Meal: Kids love these mini sandwiches! Serve them with ketchup, honey mustard, or Chick-Fil-A sauce for dipping. Add some cut-up veggies or apple slices on the side for a balanced meal.
Tailgate or Party Snack: Chicken Minis are great for gatherings. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or as appetizers.
Customize Your Minis: Offer a variety of sauces like barbecue, ranch, or buffalo sauce for guests to choose from. This allows everyone to customize their Chicken Minis to their liking.
Sweet and Savory Combo: For a sweet touch, serve the Chicken Minis with maple syrup for dipping. This combination creates a delightful contrast between the savory chicken and the sweet syrup.
Beverage Pairings: Pair your Chicken Minis with sweet tea, lemonade, or your favorite soft drink for a true Southern-inspired meal.

To elevate your Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis, why not try them with a homemade sauce? Check out our Ultimate Copycat Chick-Fil-A Sauce Recipe for an easy and delicious complement to your mini sandwiches.

Storage Tips for Copycat Chicken Minis

After enjoying the delicious Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis, you might find yourself with leftovers. Proper storage is key to maintaining their taste and texture for future enjoyment. Here are some tips on how to store your homemade Chicken Minis:

Refrigerating Leftovers

Cool Down: Allow the Chicken Minis to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the rolls soggy.
Airtight Container: Place the Chicken Minis in an airtight container. This helps to keep them fresh and prevents them from absorbing odors from the fridge.
Consume Within 2-3 Days: Refrigerated Chicken Minis are best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. After this, they may start to lose their freshness and texture.

Freezing for Longer Storage

Wrap Individually: If you plan to freeze the Chicken Minis, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. This makes it easier to thaw only as many as you need at a time.
Use Freezer Bags: Place the wrapped Chicken Minis in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label and Date: Always label your freezer bags with the date. Chicken Minis can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw the Chicken Minis in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

Oven or Toaster Oven: For the best results, reheat Chicken Minis in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until they are warmed through. This method helps to maintain the crispiness of the chicken and the softness of the rolls.
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave, but be cautious as it can make the rolls a bit chewy. To avoid this, wrap the Chicken Minis in a damp paper towel while microwaving.
Air Fryer: An air fryer is also a great option for reheating. It quickly crisps up the chicken and keeps the rolls soft.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis even after the day they are made, ensuring that not a single bite of this delicious treat goes to waste!

Nutritional Information for Copycat Chicken Minis

When indulging in the delightful Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis, it’s helpful to be aware of their nutritional content, especially for those who are health-conscious or monitoring their dietary intake. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (one mini sandwich):

Key Nutritional Components for Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe

Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories per mini sandwich. This can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.
Proteins: Each mini sandwich typically contains about 10-15 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken breast.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, largely from the Parker House Rolls and the breading on the chicken.
Fats: The total fat content can range from 10-15 grams, with a portion of this being saturated fat due to the frying process and the butter in the rolls.
Sugars: There’s a small amount of sugar in each mini sandwich, coming from the powdered sugar in the breading and the honey used on the rolls.
Sodium: The sodium content can be relatively high, mainly due to the brine (pickle juice) and seasonings. It’s estimated to be around 300-500 mg per mini sandwich.

Dietary Considerations

Gluten: The recipe contains gluten from the all-purpose flour and the rolls.
Dairy: Buttermilk and butter are used in the recipe, contributing to the dairy content.
Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the chicken and dairy products.

Healthier Alternatives for Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe

For those looking to make a healthier version of this recipe, consider the following modifications:

Baking Instead of Frying: Bake the coated chicken pieces in the oven to reduce the fat content.
Using Whole Wheat Rolls: Opt for whole wheat rolls instead of regular Parker House Rolls to increase the fiber content.
Low-Fat Dairy Options: Use low-fat buttermilk and butter substitutes.

Remember, these nutritional estimates are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes. Enjoying Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis as part of a balanced diet is key to maintaining overall health and wellness.

Variations and Substitutions for Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis Recipe

The beauty of making Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis at home is the flexibility to tweak the recipe according to your dietary preferences or to simply experiment with different flavors. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the coating and serve the chicken on gluten-free rolls or bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Use dairy-free butter for the rolls.
Vegetarian Option: Instead of chicken, use firm tofu or a plant-based chicken substitute. Follow the same marinating and coating process.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Version: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating, or add a spicy seasoning like chipotle or hot paprika for an extra kick.
Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary to the flour mixture for an herby flavor.
Sweet and Savory: Mix a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg into the honey-butter mixture for a sweet and savory twist on the rolls.

Healthier Alternatives

Baked Chicken Minis: For a healthier version, bake the coated chicken pieces in the oven at 400°F until crispy and cooked through, instead of frying.
Whole Wheat Rolls: Use whole wheat rolls for added fiber and nutrients.
Air Fryer Chicken Minis: Use an air fryer to cook the chicken pieces. This method uses significantly less oil than deep frying.

Other Substitutions

Different Pickle Juices: Experiment with different types of pickle juice, such as spicy pickle juice, for varying flavors in the chicken marinade.
Alternative Oils: If peanut oil is not available, use other oils with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil for frying.

These variations and substitutions allow you to customize the Copycat Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making this recipe versatile and enjoyable for everyone.

After enjoying your savory Chicken Minis, why not indulge in a sweet treat? Our Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is an excellent choice for topping off any dessert and a delightful way to complete your meal.

FAQs

Can you get a 10 count chicken minis?

Availability: Chick-Fil-A typically offers Chicken Minis in smaller counts. However, the availability of a 10 count option can vary by location and may be available as part of a catering menu. It’s best to check with your local Chick-Fil-A restaurant for their specific menu options.

How much is a 4 count chicken mini?

Price Range: The price of a 4 count Chicken Mini can vary depending on the location and region. On average, you might expect to pay around $3 to $5. For the most accurate pricing, it’s recommended to check the menu at your local Chick-Fil-A or visit their website.

What are the different counts for chicken minis?

Standard Counts: Chick-Fil-A typically offers Chicken Minis in counts of 3 and 4. These are the standard options available on their breakfast menu.
Catering Options: For larger gatherings or events, Chick-Fil-A may offer Chicken Minis in larger counts as part of their catering menu. This can include counts like 10 or more, but availability may vary by location.

Are chicken minis from Chick-fil-A healthy?

Nutritional Consideration: Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis are a popular breakfast choice, but like many fast-food items, they should be consumed in moderation. They contain calories, fat, and sodium, which should be considered within the context of your overall diet.
Healthier Choices: If you’re looking for healthier options at Chick-Fil-A, consider choosing grilled items or salads. Also, being mindful of portion sizes can help maintain a balanced diet.
Indulgence in Moderation: Enjoying Chicken Minis as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet can be a more health-conscious approach.

For specific nutritional information and to make the best choices based on your dietary needs, it’s always a good idea to consult the nutritional information provided by Chick-Fil-A on their website or in their restaurants.

More Copycat Recipes

If you love recreating restaurant favorites, try these:

Copycat Publix Buffalo Chicken Dip
Copycat Hardee’s Cinnamon ‘N’ Raisin Biscuits
Air Fryer Bloomin’ Onion

For more delicious copycat recipes, visit Mama Loves Food.