Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe: Nashville Hot Chicken is a fiery, crispy, and irresistibly delicious Southern classic. This dish features juicy, perfectly fried chicken drenched in a spicy, buttery paste that delivers a signature kick.
Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, this dish has gained popularity nationwide for its perfect balance of heat and crunch.
Whether you’re a spice lover or just want to try something new, this step-by-step guide will help you make authentic Nashville Hot Chicken at home!
History and Origins of Nashville Hot Chicken
The legend of Nashville Hot Chicken dates back to the 1930s when a man named Thornton Prince was served an extra-spicy fried chicken meal as payback from his girlfriend. Instead of being deterred, he loved it so much that he refined the recipe and opened Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack. Since then, this dish has become a staple in Nashville and beyond, with various restaurants adding their own twist.
Ingredients Needed for Nashville Hot Chicken
To achieve the authentic flavor and crunch of Nashville Hot Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Buttermilk Marinade:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 large egg
For the Breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Hot Spice Paste:
- ½ cup melted butter or lard
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
Tools and Equipment Required
- Large mixing bowls
- Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
- Tongs for flipping
- Wire rack for draining
- Thermometer (for checking oil temperature)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture and allows for better frying. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Creating the Buttermilk Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, and a beaten egg. Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors soak in.
Step 3: Breading the Chicken
In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, even coating. Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying.
Step 4: Frying the Chicken to Perfection
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Making the Hot Spice Paste
While the chicken rests, mix melted butter (or lard) with cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Stir well to form a smooth, spicy paste.
Step 6: Coating the Chicken with Spicy Paste
Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each piece of fried chicken with the hot spice paste. Make sure to cover every inch for that signature Nashville Hot Chicken flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Nashville Hot Chicken
- White bread slices (to soak up the extra spice)
- Pickles (for a tangy contrast)
- Coleslaw (to cool down the heat)
- French fries or potato wedges
Traditional Ways to Serve It
Nashville Hot Chicken is traditionally served on white bread with pickles on top. The spicy oil seeps into the bread, creating a flavorful bite that balances the heat.
Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken
- Marinate overnight for juicier, more flavorful chicken.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for crispy results.
- Let the chicken rest after frying to enhance crispiness before adding the spice paste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, making the chicken soggy.
- Skipping the resting time can result in a less crispy coating.
- Not using enough spice paste can make the dish less authentic.
Variations of Nashville Hot Chicken
Baked Nashville Hot Chicken
Instead of frying, coat the chicken with breadcrumbs and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes.
Air Fryer Nashville Hot Chicken
For a healthier version, cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
FAQs about Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe
What is Nashville Hot Chicken?
Nashville Hot Chicken is a popular Southern dish consisting of fried chicken with a spicy, cayenne-based coating. This dish is well-known for its intense heat and is typically served atop white bread with pickles.
How do I make the spicy coating for Nashville Hot Chicken?
To make the spicy coating, mix together cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Some recipes also include a bit of black pepper or chili powder for extra heat. This mixture is combined with the oil used for frying the chicken to create a spicy paste.
What type of chicken is best for Nashville Hot Chicken?
Traditionally, bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are used for Nashville Hot Chicken. Thighs and drumsticks are popular choices because they stay juicy during frying.
Can I make Nashville Hot Chicken less spicy?
Yes, you can adjust the heat level by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating. You can also add more brown sugar to balance out the spiciness.
What should I serve with Nashville Hot Chicken?
Nashville Hot Chicken pairs well with sides that can cool down the heat, such as coleslaw, dill pickles, and white bread. You might also enjoy it with a side of macaroni cheese or potato salad.
How can I ensure my Nashville Hot Chicken is crispy?
To ensure a crispy coating, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F or 175°C) and do not overcrowd the frying pan. This helps maintain the oil temperature and results in a crispier chicken.
Is there a way to make Nashville Hot Chicken healthier?
For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. Prepare the chicken as usual, but instead of frying, bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until it’s crispy and cooked through.
By following these tips and adjusting the recipe to your taste preferences, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade Nashville Hot Chicken meal right in your own kitchen.
Conclusion
Nashville Hot Chicken is a fiery, flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home with the right ingredients and techniques. Whether you love extreme heat or prefer a milder version, this recipe allows you to customize the spice level while keeping that crispy, juicy texture.
