Name: Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 package Sister Schubert's yeast dinner rolls; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 16 Member’s Mark Southern Style Chicken Bites

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There’s something undeniably special about the comfort of a Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis. I can still remember the first time I bit into one of those warm, fluffy rolls filled with crispy chicken. It was a perfect blend of sweet and savory that immediately brought me back to childhood memories of family gatherings and Sunday brunches. Now, I have the secret to recreate that magic right from my own kitchen!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, AIP, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Skillet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Air Fryer

The Beauty of This Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis

Convenience and Comfort

Who doesn’t love a little convenience? The Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend brunch. They’re easy to whip up, and the ingredients are so simple that you probably have most of them in your pantry already!

All About Flavor

The combination of honey, butter, and brown sugar creates a rich, sweet glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken nuggets. Each bite of these mini sandwiches is a delightful explosion of flavors that makes them irresistible!

Great for Any Occasion

These chicken minis are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a simple family meal, or looking for a unique dish to bring to a potluck, they fit the bill perfectly. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone!

Perfectly Shareable

Let’s be honest; these Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis are too good to keep to yourself! They’re bite-sized, which makes them perfect for sharing. You can easily double or triple the recipe, allowing you to serve a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

Family-friendly Fun

Cooking with family can be a wonderful bonding experience, and these chicken minis are fun to assemble together. Kids love to help cut the rolls and assemble their own sandwiches, making it a delightful culinary adventure!

Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis Ingredients

The beauty of the Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis lies in its simplicity. The ingredients work together to create something truly delightful that everyone loves. The key players here are the yeast dinner rolls, which provide that perfect, fluffy base, the chicken bites for protein, and the honey butter glaze that brings everything together in a symphony of flavors.

1 package Sister Schubert’s yeast dinner rolls (16 rolls) – These delicious rolls are the cornerstone of this dish, offering a pillowy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
2 tablespoons honey – A touch of sweetness that elevates the entire dish and complements the savory chicken bites.
3 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and flavor, ensuring every bite is decadent.
1 teaspoon brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness of the glaze while adding depth to the flavor profile.
16 Member’s Mark Southern Style Chicken Bites – The perfect crispy chicken morsels that make each mini sandwich irresistible.

Recipe Steps for Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis

Getting started on the Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis is easier than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying delicious mini sandwiches in no time. Let’s dive into the fun of making these delightful bites!

Preheat your oven to 300°F. This ensures your rolls will bake evenly and come out perfectly soft and golden.
Carefully place your yeast dinner rolls on a baking pan and cover them with aluminum foil. This will help keep them moist while baking. Bake for about 15 minutes or until they are lightly browned. You want them to be fluffy, not dry.
While the rolls are baking, take a small microwave-safe bowl and add the butter. Heat it in the microwave in 10-second increments until it’s fully melted. Stir in the honey and brown sugar until everything is well combined.
As soon as the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and brush the tops evenly with the honey butter mixture using a silicone basting brush. This will give them a shine and enhance the flavor.
Next, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. You want it hot enough to make the chicken nuggets crispy.
Place the chicken nuggets in the air fryer in a single layer. Cook them for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color and a crispy texture.
After the chicken is done, place the rolls back in the oven uncovered for another 5 minutes to allow the tops to crisp up a bit more. Once they’re ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Once the rolls have cooled, gently remove them from the pan and place them on a separate plate or serving tray. Don’t forget to take the nuggets out of the air fryer as well.
Using a butter knife, make a horizontal cut halfway through each roll. Be gentle to keep them intact!
Finally, place a crispy chicken nugget inside each roll. If you like, drizzle a little more honey on top of the chicken minis for added sweetness. Keep them warm until you’re ready to serve!

Things Worth Knowing

Rolls Matter: Using high-quality yeast rolls like Sister Schubert’s makes a significant difference in texture and taste.
Temperature Control: Always ensure your butter is melted but not boiling when combining with other ingredients for the glaze.
Timing is Key: For the perfect glaze, apply it right after the rolls come out of the oven for better absorption.
Air Fryer Technique: Preheating the air fryer is crucial for achieving that crispy texture on the chicken nuggets.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to customize the Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis to suit your taste! Here are some tips to consider that will take your mini sandwiches to the next level.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their softness.
Freezing: These mini sandwiches freeze well! Assemble them without the glaze, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Pairing: Serve alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal. You can also add pickles for an extra crunch!
Spice It Up: If you like heat, consider adding jalapeños or a spicy sauce on the chicken nuggets before assembling.
Different Fillings: Feel free to swap out the chicken nuggets with grilled chicken breast or even veggie options for a lighter twist.

Serve This Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis With

Elevate your meal with a variety of options that pair wonderfully with the Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis. Here are some fabulous ideas!

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette compliments the richness of the chicken minis perfectly.
Crispy French Fries: Serve them with hot, crispy fries seasoned with your favorite spices for that classic diner experience.
Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the savory minis, making it perfect for gatherings.
Chips and Dip: Pair with tortilla chips and a zesty dip for a fun appetizer spread!
Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces, such as ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard, for guests to personalize their mini sandwiches.
Occasions: These chicken minis work wonderfully for brunches, lunch get-togethers, or even as a fun dinner option during game nights.

FAQ

Absolutely! While the traditional choice is Sister Schubert’s yeast rolls, you can use any soft dinner rolls you prefer. Just make sure they’re fluffy and can hold up to the chicken and glaze. Experiment with different flavors, like garlic or herb rolls, which can add an extra layer of taste to your Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis.

To keep your Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis warm, preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F. You can place the assembled minis on a baking sheet and keep them in the oven until it’s time to serve. This way, they retain their softness and warmth, making them even more enjoyable when served!

Yes! You can prepare the rolls and chicken in advance. Assemble the minis without the glaze and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm everything up in the oven and drizzle the honey butter glaze over the top just before serving. This makes them a great option for meal prepping or for entertaining guests!

These Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with crispy fries, a fresh garden salad, or even some coleslaw for a nice crunch. You can also provide an assortment of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors and make it a fun experience for everyone!

Conclusion

The Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis are a delightful way to bring a taste of your favorite fast food right into your kitchen. With their fluffy rolls and crispy chicken, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try making these delectable mini sandwiches soon. You’ll love the process and the results!

Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis

The ultimate comfort food is here! Enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade chicken bites nestled in soft, fluffy rolls. These Homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Minis are a perfect treat for any occasion and are sure to satisfy your cravings tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 package Sister Schubert's yeast dinner rolls
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon brown sugar
16 Member’s Mark Southern Style Chicken Bites

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Skillet
Oven
Mixing Bowl
Frying pan
Wooden Spoon
Air Fryer

Method

Preheat your oven to 300°F. This ensures your rolls will bake evenly and come out perfectly soft and golden.
Carefully place your yeast dinner rolls on a baking pan and cover them with aluminum foil. This will help keep them moist while baking. Bake for about 15 minutes or until they are lightly browned. You want them to be fluffy, not dry.
While the rolls are baking, take a small microwave-safe bowl and add the butter. Heat it in the microwave in 10-second increments until it’s fully melted. Stir in the honey and brown sugar until everything is well combined.
As soon as the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and brush the tops evenly with the honey butter mixture using a silicone basting brush. This will give them a shine and enhance the flavor.
Next, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. You want it hot enough to make the chicken nuggets crispy.
Place the chicken nuggets in the air fryer in a single layer. Cook them for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color and a crispy texture.
After the chicken is done, place the rolls back in the oven uncovered for another 5 minutes to allow the tops to crisp up a bit more. Once they’re ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Once the rolls have cooled, gently remove them from the pan and place them on a separate plate or serving tray. Don’t forget to take the nuggets out of the air fryer as well.
Using a butter knife, make a horizontal cut halfway through each roll. Be gentle to keep them intact!
Finally, place a crispy chicken nugget inside each roll. If you like, drizzle a little more honey on top of the chicken minis for added sweetness. Keep them warm until you’re ready to serve!

Notes

Pickle Juice Secret: For an even more authentic Chick-fil-A flavor, sprinkle a few drops of dill pickle juice on regular chicken nuggets before heating them. This little-known trick helps create that distinctive Chick-fil-A taste.
Batch Cooking Strategy: If serving a large crowd, keep the chicken nuggets warm in a 200°F oven while you work on the rolls and assembly. This ensures everyone gets hot, crispy chicken in their minis.
Glaze Application Timing: Apply the honey-butter glaze while the rolls are hot, but assemble the sandwiches after the rolls have cooled slightly (3-5 minutes). This prevents the glaze from being completely absorbed and gives you that signature sticky sweetness on the outside.