Introduction
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are a bold and spicy Southern classic that bring together crispy fried chicken, a flavorful hot sauce, and a soft bun to create an irresistible combination of heat and flavor. Originating from the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, this dish has become a staple in the world of comfort food. The key to Nashville Hot Chicken is its signature spicy coating, which is generously slathered over the crispy fried chicken, giving it a fiery kick that is tempered by the creamy richness of pickles and cool, crunchy slaw. Whether you like it mild or extra hot, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches offer a delicious way to indulge in some Southern heat, making them a favorite for those who love bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
The History of Nashville Hot Chicken
Nashville Hot Chicken has a rich and spicy history that dates back to the 1930s. Legend has it that the dish was created by Thornton Prince, who allegedly had a late night out on the town. When he returned home, his girlfriend, upset with his late return, decided to teach him a lesson by making a fried chicken that was far spicier than anything he had ever tasted before. To her surprise, Thornton loved the fiery chicken, and soon after, he opened a restaurant that specialized in this spicy fried chicken recipe, eventually giving birth to what we now know as Nashville Hot Chicken. Over the years, the dish gained a cult following in Nashville and became a signature of the city’s culinary identity. Today, Nashville Hot Chicken is celebrated far beyond Tennessee, with restaurants across the country putting their own spin on the dish while staying true to its roots.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to submerge the chicken)
For the Nashville Hot Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (or more for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup hot oil (from frying the chicken)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or similar)
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- Pickle slices (dill or bread-and-butter pickles)
- Optional: coleslaw for topping (for a creamy contrast to the heat)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 2 hours or overnight. This step helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, and oregano. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure the chicken is well-coated, pressing down slightly to ensure the coating sticks. For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
In a small bowl, combine cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Slowly add the hot oil from frying the chicken, followed by the white vinegar and hot sauce. Stir until the sauce is well-mixed and smooth.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken with Hot Sauce
Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat each piece of fried chicken with the spicy Nashville hot sauce. Ensure the chicken is fully covered in the sauce for the signature fiery heat.
Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast the hamburger buns lightly if desired. Place a few slices of pickles on the bottom half of each bun. Add a piece of the hot chicken on top of the pickles. For an extra touch of creaminess, you can also add some coleslaw on top of the chicken. Top with the other half of the bun.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches immediately with your favorite side dish, such as fries, potato salad, or coleslaw.
Tips for the Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sandwich, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the hot sauce and seasoning. For extra heat, you can add more cayenne or even a bit of chili powder.
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an ultra-crispy crust, double fry the chicken. After frying the chicken once, let it rest for a few minutes and then fry it again for 2-3 minutes until the crust is extra crunchy.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Pickle Power: The pickles help balance out the heat with their tangy and slightly sweet flavor, so don’t skip this important ingredient.
Variations and Customizations
- Chicken Thighs for Juicier Meat: While chicken breasts are commonly used, you can opt for chicken thighs, which are juicier and add more flavor to the sandwich.
- Spicy Mayo: Add a creamy element by spreading spicy mayo or aioli on the bun for a smoother texture and a tangy kick.
- Veggie Options: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with crispy fried cauliflower or tempeh to mimic the texture and flavor of Nashville Hot Chicken.
- Slaw Options: While traditional coleslaw works well, you can also try a spicy, tangy slaw made with jalapeños or hot sauce to complement the heat from the chicken.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are definitely on the indulgent side, with the fried chicken and spicy sauce making them a calorie-dense option. While chicken is a good source of protein, the fried nature of the dish increases the amount of saturated fats and calories. To make this dish healthier, consider swapping the deep-fried chicken for grilled chicken or using whole-wheat buns for added fiber. Additionally, opt for a lighter coleslaw with less mayo or a vinegar-based slaw to reduce the calorie content.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Sandwich):
- Calories: 600-800 kcal (depending on size and toppings)
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
FAQ
1. Can I make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches ahead of time? It’s best to prepare the chicken and sauce fresh for optimal flavor and crispiness. However, you can fry the chicken ahead of time, then reheat it in the oven to keep the crust crispy.
2. What can I serve with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches? These sandwiches go great with sides like coleslaw, pickles, French fries, or a refreshing green salad.
3. Can I make Nashville Hot Chicken without deep frying? Yes! You can bake the chicken in the oven or air fry it for a healthier alternative to deep frying.
4. How spicy is Nashville Hot Chicken? The spiciness can vary based on your preference. Start with the recommended amount of cayenne and adjust according to your heat tolerance.
5. How do I store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches? Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven to keep it crispy.
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch or substitute with more flour
- 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
For the Dipping Oil:
- ½ cup frying oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon each of chili powder smoked paprika, and garlic powder
To Assemble the Sandwiches:
- 4 burger buns buttered and toasted
- Coleslaw
- Mayonnaise
- Pickles
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. In another shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and spices.
Bread the Chicken:
- Coat the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture, followed by a second coat in the flour, pressing firmly to ensure both sides are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour to create crispy crumbs for a crunchy texture.
Fry the Chicken:
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large, heavy-duty pan to 350ºF. Fry the chicken for 3 minutes per side or until the outside is dark and crunchy, and the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a cooling rack.
Make the Nashville Hot Sauce:
- Once all the chicken is fried, take ½ cup of the hot cooking oil and transfer it to a small bowl. Add the brown sugar and spices, whisking to combine. While the chicken is still hot, baste it with the hot oil mixture. If the oil is too burnt, you can substitute with a mix of melted butter and oil, or just melted butter.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise onto the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add the fried chicken, followed by some coleslaw and pickles. Serve immediately and enjoy!
