Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.
Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.
Introduction
Get ready to spice up your life with the ultimate Southern comfort food: Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich! This mouth-watering masterpiece is a staple of Music City’s culinary scene, and for good reason. A perfectly crispy fried chicken patty, smothered in a spicy hot sauce, served on a soft bun with creamy coleslaw and pickles… it’s a flavor combination that’ll leave you singing “Forever and Ever”!
In this article, we’ll take you on a step-by-step journey to create the perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the art of frying and seasoning, we’ve got you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2-3 inches deep in a skillet)
- Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce (see below for recipe or store-bought equivalent)
- Buns, toasted or grilled
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade, see below for simple recipe)
- Pickles, thinly sliced (such as dill or sweet pickles)
Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce Recipe (Optional)
If you want to get truly authentic, try making your own Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce. This spicy condiment is the key to elevating your hot chicken game!
- 1/4 cup cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Frying the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray.
- Heating the Oil: Fill a large skillet with about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on a thermometer.
- Frying the Chicken (again!):** Place 2-3 chicken pieces into the hot oil, depending on the size of your skillet. Fry for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain the temperature.
- Spreading the Heat:** Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle both sides of each piece with Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce (or your preferred hot sauce). You can also toss the chicken in the sauce if you prefer!
- Assembling the Sandwich: Toast or grill the buns, then spread a dollop of coleslaw on the bottom bun. Place two to three pieces of fried chicken on top, followed by some pickle slices and a sprinkle of Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce (if desired). Finish with the top bun.
Pro Tips for Success
To take your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich game to the next level:
- Use high-quality ingredients:** Fresh, never frozen chicken and real buttermilk will make a huge difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t over-bread:** You want a light, crispy coating, not a soggy mess. Adjust the amount of flour mixture accordingly.
- Adjust the heat to your liking:** If you prefer less spicy, reduce the amount of Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce or omit it altogether!
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve got answers to common questions about this beloved sandwich:
- What’s the deal with the name “Nashville”? The city of Nashville, Tennessee, is famous for its hot chicken, which originated in the African American community. This sandwich is a nod to that culinary tradition.
- Can I use different types of meat?** Yes! You can substitute pork, turkey, or even vegetarian options like tofu or tempeh if you prefer.
- How do I store leftovers?** Keep the fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate or freeze any remaining coleslaw and pickles.
And there you have it, folks! With these simple steps and insider tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating mouth-watering Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Happy cooking, y’all!
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying
- Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
- Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
- Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄
💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips
- Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
- Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
- Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄
Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe
Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
- Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
- Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.
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