Description
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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Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- 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
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
- Remove the marinated chicken, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
- 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
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a wire rack and let rest while preparing the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder.
- Brush the spicy sauce over the hot fried chicken.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast the brioche buns lightly for extra flavor.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom bun.
- Add a piece of Nashville Hot Chicken.
- Top with sliced pickles and a generous scoop of coleslaw.
- Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American/Southern