Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Name: Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium chicken breasts; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup cornstarch (or more flour); 1 teaspoon EACH: cayenne, garlic powder, salt, black pepper; ½ cup frying oil (or melted butter); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cayenne powder; ½ teaspoon EACH: chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder; 4 burger buns (buttered and toasted); Coleslaw; Mayonnaise; Pickles

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 24, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is a fantastic choice, perfect for those who crave a flavor explosion and a little extra heat. With each bite, you’ll experience a scrumptious balance of crunchy textures and spicy goodness. Plus, making these sandwiches at home is super easy—ideal for gatherings or just a cozy night in. What’s even better is that you can customize them to suit your taste buds! Want it a little milder? Go for less cayenne. Prefer extra crunch? Add more slaw. The possibilities are endless, making this sandwich a go-to for both everyday meals and parties.

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Why You’ll Love This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
What is a Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich?
Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Prep the Chicken
Create the Coating
Fry the Chicken
Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
Assemble the Sandwiches
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Pairing Ideas
FAQs
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What is a Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich?

The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich has a fun and spicy history, originating from Nashville, Tennessee. It’s said to come from a special recipe that dates back to the early 1930s, where a heartbroken woman wanted to get back at her cheating man by adding extra heat to the chicken she fried for him. Now, it’s a beloved dish throughout the USA, known for its fiery flavor and crispy exterior.

Key ingredients that define this sandwich include chicken, a spicy marinade, and the signature hot sauce that gives it that extra kick. The sandwich typically features fried chicken paired with coleslaw, pickles, and mayonnaise, all nestled in a toasted bun. It has become a cultural favorite, not just for its taste, but for the story and community surrounding it.

Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Here’s what you need to make these delicious sandwiches at home:

2 medium chicken breasts
½ cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch (or more flour)
1 teaspoon EACH: cayenne, garlic powder, salt, black pepper
½ cup frying oil (or melted butter)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon cayenne powder
½ teaspoon EACH: chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder
4 burger buns (buttered and toasted)
Coleslaw
Mayonnaise
Pickles

Prep the Chicken

Let’s start preparing the chicken! First, slice each chicken breast in half horizontally. This gives you four thin cutlets that cook quicker and get crispier. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and pepper to boost the flavor.

In a small shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. This marinade is key for that juicy taste.

Create the Coating

Now, it’s time to create the coating! In another shallow bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, and spices. This combination is what will give the chicken that crave-worthy crunch.

Take the seasoned chicken and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Then, dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture, letting it soak briefly. Afterward, return the chicken to the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat every nook and cranny.

Fry the Chicken

Heat about two inches of oil in a large, heavy-duty pan to 350ºF. It’s super important for the oil to be hot enough, as this creates the perfect crispy exterior. Carefully add the chicken cutlets, frying them for about three minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they look dark and crunchy, and the internal temperature reads 165ºF.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and transfer it to a cooling rack. This helps keep it crispy by preventing steam from sogging it up.

Make the Nashville Hot Sauce

Now, for the pièce de résistance—the Nashville Hot Sauce! In a small bowl, take half a cup of the hot cooking oil you just used (make sure to let it cool slightly first) and mix in the sugar and spices. Whisk everything together until combined.

While your fried chicken is still hot, baste each piece generously with this hot oil mixture. This adds a fiery kick and enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Assemble the Sandwiches

It’s finally time to assemble these mouthwatering sandwiches! Start by spreading a tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom of each toasted bun. Then, place the fried chicken on top.

Next, add some coleslaw for crunch and pickles for that tangy flavor. Finally, cap it with the top bun. Serve the sandwiches immediately while they’re hot and crispy!

Serving Suggestions

What pairs perfectly with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches? Consider crispy fries or a tasty potato salad on the side. And for a refreshing beverage, serve up some sweet tea or lemonade. Both complement the spiciness of the sandwich beautifully.

Tips for Success

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to get that perfect crisp.
If you like it spicy, feel free to adjust the cayenne in the hot sauce.
Always use quality buttermilk for an extra punch in the marinade.

Variations

If you want to switch things up, try using turkey or even plant-based chicken alternatives. You can also experiment with different sauces or toppings—think jalapeños or avocado! For an extra twist, consider making a spicy aioli instead of using regular mayonnaise.

Pairing Ideas

Besides fries or potato salad, how about pairing the sandwich with a side of baked beans? Adding a tangy dill pickle on the side adds that extra crunch and flavor, enhancing the whole meal.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare Nashville hot chicken in advance?
Yes, you can fry the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat it in the oven to keep it crunchy.

2. Is there a milder version of this sandwich?
Absolutely! Just reduce the cayenne and hot sauce for a family-friendly flavor.

3. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can mix equal parts milk and yogurt or add vinegar to milk in a pinch.

4. How long will leftovers last?
Store the leftover components separately in the refrigerator and enjoy them within 2-3 days.

5. Can I freeze Nashville hot chicken sandwiches?
Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken, but it’s best to assemble them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Crafting the perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich at home creates not just a meal, but an experience bursting with flavor and soul. This recipe combines the savory richness of fried chicken with the fiery kick of Nashville’s unique spices, all nestled within a toasted bun. Whether you’re hosting a game day get-together or simply indulging in comfort food, this sandwich brings the heat that delights taste buds and warms hearts. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a delicious feast that everyone will adore.

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