Craving a spicy kick with every bite? Let’s turn up the heat with a homemade Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich that’s extra crispy, fiery, and bursting with bold flavors. Perfect for spice lovers, this sandwich delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Authentic Flavor: Classic Southern spices for that iconic Nashville heat.
• Ultimate Crunch: Double-dredged for an extra crispy coating.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering, finger-licking sandwich recipe that will become your new favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts (halved)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Hot Sauce Coating:
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
For Assembling the Sandwich:
• Brioche buns
• Pickles
• Coleslaw (optional but highly recommended)
• Spicy mayo or regular mayo
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Add chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Prepare the Breading
In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade. Dredge in flour mixture, back into the buttermilk, and again in flour. This double-dip method ensures maximum crispiness.
4. Fry to Perfection
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
Whisk melted butter, cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt. Brush the hot sauce generously onto the fried chicken.
6. Assemble Your Sandwich
Toast brioche buns. Spread mayo on each side, add the spicy chicken, top with pickles and coleslaw. Close the sandwich and dig in!
Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
• Control the Heat: Start with less cayenne and add more to taste.
• Rest After Frying: Let the chicken rest on a wire rack to stay crispy.
• Balance the Spice: Cool down the heat with creamy coleslaw or a drizzle of honey.
Pairing Ideas
Serve with fries, sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing side salad. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade makes the perfect drink pairing!
Final Thoughts
Making your own Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich at home is easier than you think. With the right balance of spice, crunch, and flavor, this fiery masterpiece will quickly become a household favorite. Try it out, and let me know how it turns out!
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