Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
It’s easy to make the ultimate Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich right at home and we promise it will be just as delicious.
If you’re a fan of bold and spicy flavors, then the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is a must-try. Originating in Nashville, Tennessee, this fiery creation has captured the hearts and taste buds of people across the US.
If you love everything spicy, this one’s for you! But if hot food isn’t your thing, no worries. You can lower the cayenne amount to lower the spice level and it will still be delicious.
To create the perfect sandwich, you’ll need an array of ingredients that contribute to its spicy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:
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- Chicken: Start with boneless chicken thighs for the best results. To make the chicken extra flavorful and juicy, it’s brined in a mixture of water, brown sugar, and spices.
- Hot Sauce: The star of the show, hot sauce, is what gives Nashville Hot Chicken its signature heat. A combination of cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper forms the spicy marinade.
- Spicy Coating: The chicken is coated with a blend of flour and spices, adding extra layers of flavor and heat.
- Dill Pickles: To balance the heat, a few dill pickle slices are added to the sandwich, providing a refreshing contrast.
Looking to try unique and delicious sandwiches from around the country? Try out our viral Vermonter, the iconic Jersey breakfast staple the Pork Roll, or the Midwestern go-to the Loose Meat Sandwich.
What Makes Nashville Hot Chicken Different
It’s is famous for its scorching spiciness and unique preparation. What sets it apart from other spicy chicken dishes is the combination of flavors and techniques. It’s marinated in a fiery hot sauce, dipped in a seasoned flour mixture, and fried until crispy. The result is a tender, spicy, and crispy chicken that’s unbeatable.
The Difference Between Nashville Hot and Buffalo
You might wonder how Nashville Hot Chicken differs from Buffalo chicken. While both are spicy chicken dishes, they have distinct characteristics. Nashville Hot Chicken is known for its deep, spicy flavor with a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar. Buffalo chicken, on the other hand, relies on a tangy and buttery hot sauce, with a flavor profile that leans more towards tang than sweet.
Who Makes the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Nashville Hot Chicken is a beloved dish that you can find in many restaurants across the United States. Some restaurants, particularly in Nashville, have gained legendary status for their versions of this iconic sandwich. Notable establishments include Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, both of which have attracted diners from far and wide.
However, you don’t need to travel to Tennessee to enjoy this mouthwatering sandwich. Many eateries and home cooks have put their spin on this sandwich, making it accessible to food enthusiasts everywhere.
Why Is Nashville Hot Chicken So Popular
The popularity of Nashville Hot Chicken can be attributed to its irresistible combination of fiery spice, crispy texture, and a hint of sweetness. People crave unique and bold flavors, and this sandwich delivers on that front. The contrast between the spicy chicken and the cool, crisp dill pickles creates a tantalizing experience that’s hard to resist. As a result, this sandwich has made its way into the hearts of foodies and spice lovers nationwide.
What Is Nashville Hot Supposed to Taste Like
Nashville Hot Chicken is meant to be spicy, but it’s more than just heat. It has a rich and complex flavor profile that combines the pungency of cayenne and smoked paprika with a subtle sweetness from the brown sugar. The seasoned flour coating adds a crisp, slightly salty element, while the dill pickles provide a refreshing and tangy contrast. The overall taste is a delightful balance of spice, sweetness, and a satisfying crunch.
This delicious sandwich is a spicy and flavorful treat from Tennessee. With its unique combination of fiery heat, sweet notes, and crispy texture, it has captured the taste buds and hearts of many. Whether you’re enjoying it in a renowned Nashville eatery or trying your hand at making it at home, this spicy sensation is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients
For the Fried Chicken
- 2 cups buttermilk
- ¼ cup hot sauce
- 2 cups flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp cayenne
- 2 tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp seasoned salt
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 8 boneless chicken thighs
- vegetable oil for frying
For the Nashville Hot Oil
- ¾ cup reserved frying oil
- ⅓ cup cayenne
- 1 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- buns, pickles, and lettuce for serving
Recipe Instructions
- In a medium sized bowl, mix together hot sauce and buttermilk until combined. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, seasoned salt, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until combined.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the seasoned flour, then back into the buttermilk, and then back into the seasoned flour again. Be sure that each piece is evenly coated. Set pieces onto a baking sheet while your oil heats.
- Add 2 – 2½ inches of oil to a large cast iron skillet or heavy bottom skillet. Heat oil over medium high heat. Heat oven to 275 degrees.
- Oil is ready when a thermometer reads 350 degrees. Carefully place in 2 – 3 pieces of chicken so they aren't crowded. Fry 7 – 8 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Remove chicken from oil and place on a clean rack. Put in oven to keep warm and crisp.
- Use a ladle to scoop ¾ cup of fry oil from the pot into a heat-proof mixing bowl. Then mix in cayenne, dark brown sugar, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Remove chicken from the oven and brus hot oil on all sides. Place a piece of chicken on the bun and top with pickles and lettuce.
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