Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a spicy, crispy chicken sandwich that packs a punch, then look no further! This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that will set your taste buds on fire in the best way possible. With juicy chicken breasts coated in a spicy seasoned batter and topped with a zesty sauce, you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time. Serve it on a soft bun with your favorite toppings, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe is a perfect blend of crunchy and spicy, with a touch of sweetness that balances the heat. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but you can customize it to fit your taste preferences. Whether you like it extra spicy or prefer to tone it down, you can adjust the heat level to your liking. Plus, it’s a great option for gatherings, picnics, or simply a cozy dinner at home.

What You’ll Need

• Four 8-12 ounce chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon coarse salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 4 toasted hamburger buns
• Oil for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 4 teaspoons coarse salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Coarse salt and ground pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup remaining fryer oil
• 3 tablespoons cayenne (up to 6 if you love heat)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons coarse salt
• Coleslaw recipe (optional)
• Sliced bread and butter pickles (optional)
• Mayonnaise to taste (optional)

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large mixing bowls – for marinating and mixing the batter
• Whisk – to combine dry ingredients and mix wet ingredients
• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven – for frying the chicken
• Meat thermometer – to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly
• Slotted spoon – for removing chicken from oil
• Paper towels – for draining excess oil

Cook Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the batter stick better. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of coarse salt and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, 4 teaspoons of coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk until combined.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. This double-dipping technique adds extra crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat enough oil for frying over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of fryer oil, cayenne pepper, honey, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and 2 teaspoons of coarse salt. Mix until well blended. Brush this spicy sauce generously over each piece of fried chicken.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

To assemble your sandwiches, place a piece of the spicy fried chicken on the bottom half of a toasted hamburger bun. Top it with coleslaw, sliced pickles, and a drizzle of mayonnaise if desired. Finish with the top half of the bun and serve immediately.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a fun twist.
• Pair with a refreshing summer salad for a lighter option.
• Make it a platter with various dipping sauces for game day gatherings.
• Top with seasonal vegetables like grilled corn or avocado during summer months.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe is all about balancing flavors. The key to achieving that perfect heat level lies in the cayenne and the honey. Feel free to adjust the cayenne to suit your taste, and remember, the longer you let the chicken marinate, the more flavorful it will be! You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

• Refrigerate any leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Common Qs About Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor to your sandwich. Just ensure they are cooked through to a safe internal temperature.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Nashville hot chicken sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with coleslaw, potato salad, or fries. You can also add fresh veggies like pickles or tomatoes for extra crunch!

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat in the oven before assembling your sandwiches for the best results.

Serve & Enjoy

With your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich ready to go, it’s time to dig in! Take a big bite and savor the crunchy coating, spicy kick, and juicy chicken. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Enjoy the flavors of Nashville right in your kitchen, and don’t forget to share with those who appreciate a good sandwich!

The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. From the frying to the assembly, each step brings you closer to a delicious feast that you’ll want to recreate time and time again. Happy cooking!