Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Introduction
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches offer a fiery twist on a classic fried chicken sandwich, combining crispy, spicy chicken with cool coleslaw and tangy pickles. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and a bit of heat in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Cayenne (to taste)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Frying oil (enough for deep frying)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 burger buns (buttered and toasted)
- Coleslaw (for topping)
- Pickles (for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Step 2: In one bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip into the buttermilk mixture, and coat again thoroughly with the flour mixture.
- Step 4: Heat frying oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix some of the hot frying oil with brown sugar and additional cayenne or spices to taste. Baste this spicy oil over the fried chicken pieces.
- Step 6: Toast the burger buns with butter. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half, add the hot chicken, then top with coleslaw and pickles before closing the sandwich.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce quantities to control the heat level according to your preference.
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the flour and buttermilk mixture before frying.
- Swap coleslaw with sliced cucumbers or shredded lettuce for a different crunch and flavor.
- Use brioche buns for a richer sandwich experience.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in an oven or toaster oven to keep the coating crispy. Assemble sandwiches fresh to avoid soggy buns.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful sandwich. Just slice them thinly and adjust frying time as needed.
How can I make this recipe less spicy?
Reduce or omit cayenne and hot sauce, or use milder hot sauce varieties. You can also increase the amount of brown sugar in the spicy oil to balance the heat with sweetness.
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Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Description
These Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches feature crispy, spicy fried chicken coated in a flavorful cayenne-hot oil glaze, served on toasted buns with creamy coleslaw and pickles for the perfect balance of heat and crunch. A Southern classic with a fiery twist that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
Breading and Seasonings
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Frying and Glaze
- Frying oil (enough for deep frying, about 4 cups)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Sandwich Assembly
- 4 burger buns, buttered and toasted
- Mayonnaise (for spreading)
- Coleslaw (for topping)
- Pickles (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Season each piece generously with salt and black pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Mix Marinade and Breading: In one bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce to create a spicy marinade. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to form the breading mixture.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, then dip into the buttermilk-hot sauce marinade, and finally coat again thoroughly with the flour mixture to create a thick crust for frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat frying oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken pieces in the hot oil for about 3 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the Hot Oil Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the hot frying oil with brown sugar and a pinch of cayenne or your preferred spices to balance heat and sweetness. Generously baste the fried chicken pieces with this spicy glaze while still warm to infuse the signature Nashville hot chicken heat.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the buttered buns until golden. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun, then place a glazed fried chicken piece on top. Add a generous topping of coleslaw and several pickle slices before capping with the top bun. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level to make it milder or hotter.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for consistent frying results.
- Buttermilk soak tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the marinade and cayenne in the breading.
- Serve with extra coleslaw or pickles on the side for added crunch and acidity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, spicy fried chicken, crispy chicken sandwich, Southern fried chicken, homemade hot chicken
