I didn’t expect these grilled chicken nuggets to be something I’d crave. The seasonings add a hit of spice that keeps things interesting, and honestly, they disappear faster than I can pull them off the grill. These grilled chicken bites have that perfect balance of char and juiciness — the kind of easy dinner you start making “just for the kids” and end up enjoying as much as they do.
In my kitchen, chicken shows up on repeat. My version of grilled chicken nuggets is a regular in our main course rotation. When I tested this recipe, I realized the buttermilk marinade does more than tenderize; it gives each piece that subtle richness you usually only get from fried chicken.
If you love my Ninja Foodi Grill Chicken or Blackstone Chicken Thighs, you’ll be obsessed with these. Serve them up with Air Fryer Curly Fries or tuck them into a wrap for an easy lunch.
When I tested this one, even my picky daughter said, “Mom, these taste better than Chick-fil-A.” And honestly? She’s right.
Let’s Talk Ingredients
I’ve tested these grilled chicken nuggets with both chicken breasts and thighs. Thighs stay extra juicy on the grill, but I tend to go with breast.
If you don’t have Old Bay, you could make your own seasoning blend by mixing together celery salt, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne in a small bowl. It won’t be quite the same, but it will be delicious.
If you want to add more tang, I’ve tested adding 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in the last four hours of marinating time, and it was fabulous.
Step by Step
Tips & Tricks
- For the best flavor in this buttermilk grilled chicken nugget recipe, give the marinade enough time to do its job. Overnight is ideal. Short marinating won’t let the buttermilk fully tenderize the chicken.
- When grilling chicken nuggets, make sure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated and lightly oiled. This prevents sticking and helps those grilled chicken bites release easily when it’s time to flip.
- If you’re worried about overcooking, use an instant-read thermometer. Pull the grilled chicken cubes off the heat when they reach 160°F — any longer and they’ll dry out fast.
- Serve the grilled nuggets with dips like honey mustard, blue cheese, or ranch.
Buttermilk Marinated Grilled Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds chicken breast or thighs cubed
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
- 2 teaspoons sea salt divided
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken in a shallow dish. In a large measuring cup whisk together the buttermilk, poultry seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour over the chicken.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight.
- Drain the chicken and pat dry. Sprinkle with the remaining teaspoon of salt.
- Preheat your grill, grill pan, or Ninja indoor grill to medium-high, about 450°F.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe