Why You’ll Love Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken
If you’re a fan of juicy, flavorful chicken that’s both satisfying and better-for-you, then Chick Fil A grilled chicken is about to become your new favorite. This recipe captures the signature smoky, slightly sweet, and savory flavor that makes the original so popular—without the need to hit the drive-thru. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, meal prep Sundays, or even a quick weeknight dinner when you want something wholesome and packed with protein.
What sets this grilled chicken apart is its unique marinade that infuses every bite with bold flavor while keeping the meat tender and moist. Whether you’re serving it in a sandwich, slicing it over a salad, or enjoying it with your favorite sides, this copycat version delivers restaurant-quality taste at home. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great fit for a variety of eating styles.
Looking for more chicken inspiration? Try these roasted chicken drumsticks for another easy and flavorful option.
Table of Contents
Ingredients to make Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup dill pickle juice (for brining)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Time needed to make Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken
This recipe is quick and efficient, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes
Need a faster option? Try this air fryer chicken for a crispy, quick alternative.
Quick Steps to Make Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken
Step 1: Brine the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a bowl or zip-top bag. Add pickle juice and milk. Let it brine in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Drain the brine and pat the chicken dry. Place the chicken in a clean bag or bowl and pour the marinade over it. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you’re short on time, skip the brine and go straight to marinating. Want a gluten-free option? Serve the grilled chicken in lettuce wraps instead of buns. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier bite—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken healthy and nutritious ?
Yes, Chick Fil A grilled chicken is a smart choice for those watching their calories or macros. Each serving (based on a 4 oz chicken breast) contains approximately:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
This makes it a high-protein, low-carb option that fits well into many diets, including keto and paleo. The use of olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, while the brine and marinade keep the chicken moist without extra calories.
For more high-protein ideas, check out this easy chicken breast recipe or this chicken broccoli potato combo.
Want to compare with other grilled options? This air fryer garlic lime chicken is another lean favorite. Or try this baked chicken breast method for a no-grill alternative.
Can I make Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken healthier and still delicious?
Absolutely. Here are a few smart swaps to make this recipe even better for you:
- Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium pickle juice or dilute it with water.
- Lower sugar: Replace honey with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup.
- Cut fat: Use a light spray of olive oil instead of a full tablespoon.
- Allergen-friendly: Swap milk for almond or oat milk to make it dairy-free.
Looking for more healthy chicken ideas? Try this sheet pan vinegar chicken or this honey soy baked chicken.
For grilled flavor with a twist, check out this Tex-Mex grilled chicken burrito or this paleo Chick Fil A sauce to pair with your chicken.
How to Serve Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken?
This grilled chicken is super versatile. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:
- Classic sandwich: Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of honey mustard.
- Low-carb bowl: Slice and serve over cauliflower rice with avocado and salsa.
- Salad topper: Add to a bed of greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette.
- Wrap it up: Use a whole wheat or gluten-free tortilla for a quick lunch wrap.
Pair it with creamy smothered chicken sides or a fresh chicken mushroom stir fry for a complete meal.
Looking for veggie sides? Try this grilled asparagus with Dijon vinaigrette or this grilled chicken parmesan for a twist.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Skipping the brine: This step adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip it!
- Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken. Aim for 165°F.
- Not resting the meat: Let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Using cold chicken: Let it come to room temp before grilling for even cooking.
Want more foolproof chicken recipes? Try this easy chicken pot pie or this spicy grilled shrimp for variety.
Need help with grilling basics? This grilled boneless chicken thigh guide and this chicken brine tutorial are great resources.
The best way to store leftover Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken
Leftovers? No problem. Here’s how to keep your grilled chicken fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts.
For more storage-friendly meals, try this roasted chicken drumstick recipe or this easy chicken breast.
Need freezer tips? This oven-baked pork tenderloin and this chipotle peach glazed chicken both freeze well too.
Ready to give Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken a try?
Now that you know how easy and flavorful this Chick Fil A grilled chicken is, there’s no reason not to try it at home. It’s juicy, packed with protein, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to salads. With just a few pantry staples and a little grill time, you’ll have a meal that rivals the original.
Don’t forget to check out more chicken favorites like air fryer chicken, honey soy baked chicken, easy chicken pot pie, and chicken mushroom stir fry for more delicious ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you serve it without a bun or use a gluten-free bun or wrap. The marinade ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I cook this indoors?
Absolutely. Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop. You’ll still get great flavor and grill marks.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, 1–2 hours will give even more flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to grill.
