Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Crispy, spicy, and downright delicious, these Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches bring bold Southern flavors straight to your kitchen! Perfectly seasoned fried chicken, tossed in a fiery hot sauce, is layered on a buttery toasted bun with cool, crunchy pickles and creamy slaw. Whether you’re making them for game day, a weekend treat, or just because—this sandwich is guaranteed to impress!

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Why You’ll Love These Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

• Crispy & Spicy: Golden-fried chicken coated in a mouthwatering spicy glaze.
• The Perfect Balance: Heat meets cool with creamy slaw and crunchy pickles.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Skip the takeout and make this iconic sandwich from scratch!
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

To make these bold and spicy sandwiches, you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved into 4 fillets)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Breading

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Frying & Sauce

• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Assembly

• 4 brioche buns (buttered and toasted)
• 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup sliced pickles

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowls: For marinating and breading the chicken.
• Cast-iron skillet or deep pan: For frying.
• Tongs: For handling hot chicken.
• Wire rack: To drain excess oil while keeping the chicken crispy.

How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Add the chicken fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for extra tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture. Press the breading onto the chicken for a thick, crispy coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Internal temp should reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Hot Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Brush or drizzle the spicy sauce over the crispy fried chicken.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Toast the brioche buns in a skillet with butter.
2. Place a layer of pickles on the bottom bun, followed by the hot chicken.
3. Top with coleslaw and the toasted bun.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.
2. Pair with fries, potato salad, or a side of sweet tea!

Serving Suggestions

• Add a slice of cheese for extra richness.
• Serve with waffle fries or mac & cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.
• Balance the heat with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.

Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

• Use Buttermilk: It tenderizes the chicken and helps the breading stick better.
• Double Dip for Extra Crunch: After the first dredge, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then into the flour again.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce cayenne for milder heat or add more for extra fire!
• Let the Chicken Rest: Draining on a wire rack keeps the crust crispy.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Properly: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. For extra crispiness, spray with oil before baking.

Q2: Can I air fry the chicken?
A: Definitely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Lightly spray with oil before cooking.

Q3: What’s the best way to make it less spicy?
A: Reduce the cayenne in the sauce and breading, and skip the hot sauce in the marinade. Serve with extra coleslaw to cool it down!

Conclusion: A Spicy Southern Favorite!

These Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are crispy, fiery, and absolutely packed with flavor! Whether you like it extra spicy or just mildly hot, this recipe is a must-try for any fried chicken lover.

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your delicious creations.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Southern

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 620 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 55g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 880mg

Enjoy every crispy, spicy bite, and happy cooking!

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