Go Back
Homemade Nashville Fried Chicken photo

Nashville Fried Chicken

This Nashville Fried Chicken is a spicy, crispy delight! Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Comfort Food, Fried Chicken, Spicy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 12 oz boneless and skinless chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into long strips)
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun spice
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 300 ml buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon frying oil

Instructions

Instructions:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun spice, oregano, salt, and ground black pepper. Submerge the chicken tenders in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
  • In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces, about 2-3 inches deep. Preheat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a wire rack or plate.
  • Carefully add a few pieces of coated chicken to the hot oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon or tongs to turn the chicken as needed.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this helps retain its juiciness.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Shallow Dish
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Paper Towels

Notes

  • For the chicken, boneless and skinless tenders are preferred for their convenience and tenderness.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance. Use less for a milder flavor or add more for an extra kick.
  • Buttermilk can be homemade by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice if you don't have any on hand.