Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Nashville hot chicken recipe is a fiery, crispy delight that has taken the culinary world by storm. Originating from Nashville, Tennessee, this dish features perfectly fried chicken coated in a spicy, cayenne-infused glaze. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will bring a taste of Nashville right to your kitchen.

By marinating the chicken in a tangy buttermilk mixture, you not only tenderize the meat but also infuse it with a subtle, underlying tang. After marinating, double-dredge the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an extra crispy crust that holds up to the spicy glaze.

The hot sauce, a blend of melted butter, lard, and a generous amount of cayenne pepper, sets this dish apart. Brush this sauce onto the freshly fried chicken, creating a mouthwatering combination of crispy, juicy, and spicy. Traditionally served on white bread with pickles, Nashville hot chicken promises to excite your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to spice up your dinner routine, this Nashville hot chicken recipe is sure to impress. It’s a dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating memorable dining experiences. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the heat, and dive into the delicious world of Nashville hot chicken.

Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Recipe by kenza

0.0 from 0 votes

Difficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Nashville hot chicken is a spicy, crispy fried chicken dish with a cayenne-infused glaze, perfect for those who love a kick in their meals.

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Ingredients

For the Marinade:
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup pickle juice
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 large egg
8 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
For the Breading:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
For the Hot Sauce:
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup lard (optional)
3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, pickle juice, hot sauce, and egg. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, mix flour and salt. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then return it to the marinade briefly before dredging it again in the flour mixture. Let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
Make the Hot Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine melted butter, lard, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook until the mixture is well combined and the fat is melted. Keep warm.
Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack to drain.
Coat the Chicken: Brush the fried chicken with the hot sauce mixture. Serve immediately on white bread with pickles.

Notes

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature stays consistent for even frying.
Let the chicken rest after breading to help the coating adhere better.

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Tips for Nashville hot chicken recipe :

Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Marinating the chicken overnight makes it juicier and more flavorful.
Double Dredging: Dredging the chicken twice in the flour mixture creates an extra crispy crust.
Use a Thermometer: A kitchen thermometer ensures your oil is at the right temperature, preventing undercooked or burnt chicken.
Serve Immediately: Serve it right after frying for the best texture and flavor.
Customize the Heat: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

FAQ

What makes Nashville hot chicken spicy?

The spiciness comes from a mix of cayenne pepper and other spices added to the hot oil that’s brushed onto the fried chicken after it’s cooked. You can adjust the level of cayenne to control the heat level based on your preference.

Can I bake or air fry Nashville hot chicken instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake or air fry the chicken as a lighter alternative. Coat the chicken with the seasoned flour or breading, then bake at 400°F or air fry until golden and cooked through. Brush with the spicy oil mixture after cooking to maintain the classic Nashville flavor.

What should I serve with Nashville hot chicken?

Nashville hot chicken is traditionally served with white bread and pickles to balance the heat. It also pairs well with classic sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, or potato salad to cool down the spice and add variety to the meal.

This Nashville hot chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors. It brings the authentic taste of Nashville to your home, offering a perfect balance of heat and crunch. Regardless of whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something spicy, this dish is sure to impress.