nashville hot chicken sandwich recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best nashville hot chicken sandwich recipe

I love making Nashville hot chicken sandwiches at home. They are spicy, crispy, and so satisfying. My family asks for them all the time, even my kids who are usually picky eaters. This recipe is perfect for a weekend dinner or a casual get together with friends. It is not the healthiest meal, but you can control the oil and spices to make it a bit lighter. The chicken is coated in a buttermilk brine which keeps it tender, and the spicy oil mixture gives it that classic Nashville heat. I like to serve it on a soft bun with pickles and coleslaw to balance the spice.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

4.5 from 1358 votes

Crispy fried chicken coated in a spicy, buttery oil mixture, served on a soft bun with pickles and coleslaw. This recipe brings the heat of Nashville right to your kitchen.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Brine

1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating

1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Spicy Oil

1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Assembly

4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
4 brioche buns
Pickle slices
Coleslaw (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
2In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, and salt.
3Remove chicken from brine, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Shake off extra flour.
4Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet to 350 F. Fry chicken in batches for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 F. Transfer to a wire rack.
5In a small saucepan, warm the 1/2 cup vegetable oil with cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder over low heat until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
6Brush the spicy oil mixture generously over each piece of fried chicken.
7Toast the brioche buns. Place a chicken piece on each bun, top with pickles and coleslaw if using. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Whisk
Deep skillet or Dutch oven
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Wire rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For less heat, reduce cayenne in the spicy oil. For extra crunch, double coat the chicken by dipping it back in the buttermilk and then the flour mixture before frying.

Watch Video Of How Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Works

This Nashville hot chicken sandwich is always a hit at my house. It is a fun and flavorful meal that works for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue. I hope your family enjoys it as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

1. Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, you can reduce the cayenne pepper in both the coating and the spicy oil. Start with half the amount and adjust to your taste.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken breasts work well, but they may cook faster. Pound them to an even thickness for best results and check for doneness.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake it at 400 F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. It will not be as crispy, but it is a healthier option.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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