Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Crispy, spicy, and dripping with bold flavor, these Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches bring the perfect balance of heat and crunch! Topped with tangy pickles and creamy coleslaw, this sandwich delivers a fiery kick with every bite. Whether you’re making them for game day, a family dinner, or just to satisfy a spicy craving, this recipe is a winner!

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Why You’ll Love These Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

• Crispy & Juicy: The perfect crunch on the outside with tender, flavorful chicken inside.
• Bold & Spicy: Coated in a rich, fiery sauce that brings serious heat.
• Classic Southern Comfort: A true Nashville favorite made easy at home.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preference!

Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

To make these spicy, crispy sandwiches, you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half for 4 pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder

For Assembling the Sandwiches:

• 4 brioche buns
• 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup sliced pickles
• ¼ cup mayonnaise

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or deep fryer: For frying the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: To prepare the dredging and marinade.
• Tongs: For handling the hot chicken.

How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg.
3. Remove the marinated chicken, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
4. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and back into the flour mixture. Press firmly to ensure a thick, crispy coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Transfer to a wire rack and let rest while preparing the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder.
2. Brush the spicy sauce over the hot fried chicken.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Toast the brioche buns lightly for extra flavor.
2. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom bun.
3. Add a piece of Nashville Hot Chicken.
4. Top with sliced pickles and a generous scoop of coleslaw.
5. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a perfect meal.
• Serve with a side of mac and cheese for a Southern feast.
• Cool it down with a refreshing lemonade or a creamy milkshake.

Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

• Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: The flour-egg-flour method ensures the crispiest coating.
• Control the Spice: Reduce cayenne for mild heat or add more for extra fire!
• Rest the Chicken After Frying: This keeps it crispy while allowing excess oil to drain.
• Use Brioche Buns: Their slight sweetness balances the heat beautifully.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store chicken separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat for Crispiness: Warm in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crunch.
• Freezing Not Recommended: The breading may lose its crispiness when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. For air-frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping once.

Q2: What’s the best way to make it less spicy?
A: Reduce the cayenne in the sauce and breading, or add extra brown sugar to mellow out the heat.

Q3: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the frying time as needed.

Conclusion: A Fiery Favorite!

These Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are crispy, juicy, and packed with bold, spicy flavor! Whether you’re a heat lover or just looking to try something new, this sandwich will keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and bring a taste of Nashville to your kitchen!

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

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

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 620 | Protein: 38g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 32g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 980mg

Enjoy every bite of this crispy, spicy, and flavor-packed sandwich!

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