Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe
If you’re a fan of spicy food and crave something crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious, then you are in for a treat with this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe. Originating from Nashville, Tennessee, this dish has taken the culinary world by storm. The combination of crispy fried chicken, a spicy and flavorful coating, and the perfect bun creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it up for a weekend family meal or hosting a gathering, this recipe will surely impress your guests!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich recipe stands out for its perfect balance of heat and flavor. The chicken is marinated in a buttermilk mixture that keeps it moist and tender, while the spicy coating provides an irresistible crunch. Topped with creamy coleslaw and served on toasted buns, each bite is a harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and tangy. The addition of honey and cayenne gives it that signature kick, making it a feast for those who appreciate bold flavors. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a celebration of Southern cuisine!
Ingredient Checklist
- 4 chicken breasts (8-12 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- Optional: Coleslaw
- Optional: Sliced bread and butter pickles
- Optional: Mayonnaise to taste
- 4 toasted hamburger buns
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 4 teaspoons coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Coarse salt and ground pepper to taste
- 1 cup remaining fryer oil
- 3 tablespoons cayenne (adjust to 6 for more heat)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for frying
- Mixing bowls for marinating and coating
- Whisk for blending ingredients
- Tongs for handling hot chicken
- Thermometer for oil temperature
- Paper towels for draining excess oil
- Serving platter for assembly
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of coarse salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper. Submerge the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, 4 teaspoons of coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper. This mixture will create the crunchy coating that makes the chicken irresistible.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In your cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, pour in enough oil to reach about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing it in to adhere well. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Spicy Oil
In a small bowl, mix the remaining fryer oil with 3 tablespoons of cayenne, 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, and 2 teaspoons of coarse salt. Stir well until combined.
Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches
To assemble, place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Drizzle the spicy oil generously over the chicken. Top with coleslaw and sliced pickles, if desired. Spread mayonnaise on the top bun for extra creaminess. Close the sandwich and serve immediately!
Fresh Seasonal Changes
- In summer, consider adding sliced tomatoes or avocado for a fresh touch.
- In fall, a layer of apple slaw can add a sweet crunch.
- During winter, serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a cozy meal.
- In spring, you can incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro into your coleslaw for a vibrant twist.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
- Chicken not cooked through: Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature and use a meat thermometer.
- Coating not adhering: Make sure to let the excess buttermilk drip off before dredging in the flour mixture.
- Too greasy: Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy chicken.
- Not spicy enough: Adjust the cayenne in the spicy oil mixture to suit your heat preference.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have leftovers, store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness. For meal prep, you can fry extra chicken and store it in the freezer for up to a month. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Ask the Chef
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier, which can enhance the flavor of your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich.
What can I serve with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?
This sandwich pairs perfectly with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or even crispy fries. For a refreshing drink, try sweet tea or lemonade!
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you want to tone down the heat, reduce the amount of cayenne in the spicy oil or omit it altogether. You can also serve the sandwich with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with gluten-free flour blends, and ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Weekend Projects
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Find delightful dessert ideas to complement your meal.
- Pinch of Yum – Explore delicious side dishes that pair well with chicken sandwiches.
- Minimalist Baker – Discover simple recipes for homemade sauces and dips.
- Food52 – Get inspired with seasonal recipes and cooking tips.
Bring It to the Table
Now that you have this irresistible Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe in your arsenal, it’s time to share it with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a game-day gathering, these sandwiches will be the highlight of your meal. The combination of crispy chicken, spicy oil, and your favorite toppings will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delicious results!
With its rich flavors and satisfying crunch, this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that showcases the vibrant spirit of Southern cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of coarse salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper. Submerge the chicken breasts in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, 4 teaspoons of coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper.
- In your cast iron skillet, pour in enough oil to reach about 1 inch deep and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Once marinated, dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, pressing it in to adhere well.
- Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, frying for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining fryer oil with cayenne, honey, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and coarse salt until combined.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing a piece of fried chicken on each toasted bun bottom, drizzling with spicy oil, and topping with coleslaw and sliced pickles. Spread mayonnaise on the top bun, close, and serve immediately!
Notes
- For extra crunch, ensure the chicken is well-coated with the flour mixture.
- Adjust the cayenne to your heat preference for a milder or spicier kick.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain crispiness.
