Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, spicy, and perfectly seasoned chicken sandwich. And when it comes to heat-packed flavor, nothing quite compares to a Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich. This fiery dish has deep roots in Southern cuisine, specifically in Nashville, Tennessee, where it has been a staple for decades. The combination of crunchy, well-seasoned fried chicken coated in a bold, spicy sauce, paired with creamy coleslaw and pickles on a soft brioche bun, creates the perfect balance of heat and comfort.

Legend has it that Nashville hot chicken was created as an act of revenge when a scorned woman served up an extra-spicy plate of fried chicken to her partner. However, instead of being deterred, he loved it—and a new Southern classic was born. Since then, it has gained national popularity, showing up on menus all over the country.

If you love bold flavors and a little heat, this sandwich is for you. The crispy fried chicken, the rich and spicy glaze, and the cooling effect of the slaw make each bite irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a weekend treat, game day, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, this homemade version is sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Crispy Chicken: The double dredging technique ensures an ultra-crispy coating.
• Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the heat to your liking, making it as mild or as fiery as you prefer.
• Better Than Takeout: Fresh ingredients and homemade flavors make this sandwich even better than what you’d get at a restaurant.
• The Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of crunch, heat, and cool toppings makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half for 4 pieces)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Nashville Sauce

• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sandwich Assembly

• 4 brioche buns
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup coleslaw mix
• ½ cup dill pickle slices

How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To get the juiciest, most flavorful chicken, start by marinating it in buttermilk. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for even better flavor and tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg.

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and then back into the flour. Press the coating onto the chicken to make sure it sticks. This double-dredging method creates an extra crispy texture.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken in the oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)). Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce

While the chicken rests, prepare the sauce. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush this spicy mixture generously over the crispy fried chicken.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the brioche buns lightly for extra flavor. Spread a layer of mayonnaise on the bottom bun, followed by a piece of hot chicken. Top with coleslaw and a few pickle slices. Place the top bun on and press down gently.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve immediately while the chicken is crispy and hot. Pair it with fries, sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing side salad.

Helpful Tips

• Adjust the Heat: If you want a milder version, reduce the cayenne in the sauce. For extra heat, add a little more or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
• Crispy Coating Tip: Let the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying. This helps the flour stick better for a crunchier texture.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil between 350-375°F to ensure crispy chicken without burning the coating.
• Toasting the Buns: A quick toast adds a nice texture and prevents the bun from getting soggy from the sauce.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 sandwiches
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American, Southern
• Diet: Halal

Notes

• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without overcooking.
• You can air fry the chicken at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier version.

Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich, Approximate)

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 32g
• Sodium: 1200mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also use an air fryer for a crispier result.

How spicy is this sandwich?

This recipe has a good kick, but you can adjust the cayenne to make it milder or hotter.

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. If needed, reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

It pairs well with fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or even a simple green salad.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to keep the coating crispy.
• Freeze: You can freeze the fried chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Related Recipes

If you liked this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, you’ll love these other crispy and flavorful recipes:

• Ultimate Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches
• Irresistible Cheddar & Apple Sandwich
• Jalapeño Honey-Drenched Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich
• The Ultimate Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich: A Flavor-Packed Delight

Conclusion

This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich brings the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and flavor. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to try something new, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!

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