Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Nashville Hot Chicken recipe is a Southern classic that’s crispy, spicy, and absolutely mouthwatering. Originating in Nashville, Tennessee, this dish combines the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Whether you’re a fan of fiery foods or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, Nashville Hot Chicken is a must-try recipe that will impress your taste buds and your guests alike. In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making this iconic dish right in your own kitchen.

A Brief History of Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe:

The origins of Nashville Hot Chicken trace back to the 1930s when Thornton Prince, a restaurateur, was served an extra-spicy fried chicken dish as payback from a scorned lover. To everyone’s surprise, Thornton loved it so much that he turned it into a restaurant specialty. His family later established “Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack,” which remains one of Nashville’s most famous eateries. Over the years, this fiery chicken dish has become a staple of Southern cuisine, beloved by food enthusiasts across the globe.

Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Pinklady

The origins of Nashville Hot Chicken trace back to the 1930s when Thornton Prince, a restaurateur, was served an extra-spicy fried chicken dish as payback from a scorned lover. To everyone's surprise, Thornton loved it so much that he turned it into a restaurant specialty. His family later established "Prince's Hot Chicken Shack," which remains one of Nashville’s most famous eateries.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
• Tongs
• Baking sheet with a wire rack
• Thermometer (optional but recommended)

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

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For the Hot Sauce Glaze:

• 1/2 cup frying oil (reserved from the pan)
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt to taste

For Serving:

• Pickle slices
• White sandwich bread

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicken

  Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Add buttermilk and hot sauce, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.

  In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
• Bread the Chicken

  Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and let the excess drip off.

  Coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Set aside on a baking sheet.
• Fry the Chicken

  Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

  Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

  Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
• Make the Hot Sauce Glaze

  In a small bowl, mix the cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and salt.

  Carefully add 1/2 cup of the reserved frying oil to the spice mixture and stir until combined.

  Using a brush, generously coat each piece of fried chicken with the hot sauce glaze.
• Serve and Enjoy

  Serve the Nashville Hot Chicken on slices of white bread with pickle slices on top.

  Pair with sides like coleslaw, fries, or mac and cheese for a complete meal.

Video

Keyword Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Similar Recipes to Try:

Buffalo Chicken Wings: A tangy and spicy appetizer perfect for game nights.

Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze.

Southern Fried Chicken: A classic, crispy, and flavorful dish without the heat.

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: A sticky and spicy twist for chicken lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe:

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they may cook faster due to their lower fat content.

2. What’s the best oil for frying Nashville Hot Chicken?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great options for frying.

3. How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder in the glaze.

4. Can I bake instead of frying?

Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, but note that the texture will be less crispy.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

7. Can I make the hot sauce glaze in advance?

Yes, prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before using.

8. What’s the ideal frying temperature?

Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for crispy results without burning.

9. Is Nashville Hot Chicken keto-friendly?

No, but you can modify it by using almond flour for the breading.

10. What drinks pair well with Nashville Hot Chicken?

Sweet tea, lemonade, or a light beer are excellent choices to balance the heat.

Conclusion:

Nashville Hot Chicken is a fiery, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With a crispy coating and a spicy glaze, it’s the perfect recipe to impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home! Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just love trying new recipes, this dish is a culinary adventure worth taking.

YouTube Video Credits:
Food Wishes