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

Scale

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