Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic chicken sandwich. With their spicy, slightly sweet flavor and crispy texture, these sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to game day gatherings. The combination of perfectly fried chicken, homemade hot sauce, and fresh toppings like coleslaw and pickles makes each bite irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The unique blend of spices in both the chicken and the hot sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Crispy Texture: The double breading method ensures a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sandwiches at parties, picnics, or even as a comforting dinner.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time.
- Customize Your Toppings: Add your favorite sauces or extra veggies to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
To make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools for prep and cooking. These tools will help you create perfectly fried chicken with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-duty frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Excellent for frying due to its ability to retain heat and ensure even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing the buttermilk mixture and dry ingredients separately.
- Whisk: Ideal for combining wet and dry ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Cooling rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the fried chicken, keeping it crisp.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (or more flour)
- 1 teaspoon EACH cayenne, garlic powder, salt, black pepper
For Frying
- ½ cup frying oil (or melted butter)
For the Hot Sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cayenne powder
- ½ teaspoon EACH chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder
For Assembling
- 4 burger buns (buttered and toasted)
- coleslaw
- mayonnaise
- pickles
How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets.
- Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a small shallow bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
- In another shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour mixture; shake off excess.
- Dip into the buttermilk mixture then back into the flour mixture.
- Press firmly to coat both sides of the chicken well.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large heavy-duty pan until it reaches 350°F.
- Cook each piece of chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing from oil.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a cooling rack.
Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of hot cooking oil with brown sugar and spices.
- Whisk until well combined.
- Baste each piece of fried chicken with this hot oil mixture while still warm.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Place one piece of hot chicken on top followed by coleslaw and pickles.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches packed with flavor!
How to Serve Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are not just a meal; they are an experience! The combination of spicy chicken, creamy mayo, and crunchy coleslaw makes for a delightful bite. Here are some creative ways to serve these sandwiches that will elevate your dining experience.
Classic Style
- Serve the Nashville hot chicken sandwich on its own, allowing the bold flavors to shine.
With Extra Hot Sauce
- For those who love heat, drizzle additional hot sauce over the top before serving. This adds an extra kick that spicy food lovers crave.
Family Style Platter
- Arrange several sandwiches on a large platter. Garnish with pickles and coleslaw in the center for a fun, communal meal that everyone can dig into.
Side Dishes Pairing
- Offer a variety of side dishes alongside the sandwiches, such as fries or potato salad. This creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies all tastes.
Luncheon Delight
- Cut the sandwiches in half to serve at gatherings or luncheons. This makes them easy to handle and allows guests to enjoy multiple flavors.
Picnic Ready
- Wrap each sandwich in parchment paper for an easy-to-transport option. Perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings!
How to Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
To make sure your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless chicken breasts for tender and juicy results. Thin cutlets ensure even cooking.
- Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce overnight. This enhances tenderness and spice.
- Use Fresh Oil: Always use fresh oil for frying. Old oil can lead to off-flavors and soggy coating.
- Control the Heat: Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for optimal frying. Too hot can burn the crust; too cool will lead to greasy chicken.
- Baste Generously: Don’t skimp on basting with the hot sauce mixture after frying. This is key to achieving that iconic Nashville flavor.
- Toast Your Buns: Lightly butter and toast your buns before assembling. A crispy bun adds texture and prevents sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Pairing delicious side dishes with your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches can create a well-balanced meal. Here are some great suggestions:
- Coleslaw: A classic pairing, coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, balancing the heat from the chicken.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit! Consider sweet potato fries for a healthier twist.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements the spiciness of the sandwich and is perfect for summer cookouts.
- Pickles: Serve extra pickles on the side for added crunch and tang that counters the spicy flavor.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to spicy sandwiches while adding a comforting touch.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans offer depth of flavor while being hearty enough to satisfy your appetite.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese is a crowd favorite that pairs beautifully with spicy flavors.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: These tangy fried treats add another layer of texture and flavor that complements your meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful dish, but common mistakes can spoil your experience. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the Buttermilk: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Make sure to soak the chicken for at least an hour to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Ignoring Oil Temperature: Failing to heat the oil properly can result in soggy chicken. Use a thermometer and maintain the oil at 350°F for that perfect crunchy texture.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding the pan while frying can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent and achieve a crispy crust.
- Not Resting the Chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after frying allows juices to escape, making it dry. Let it rest on a cooling rack before serving.
- Forgetting About Seasoning: Inadequate seasoning on the chicken or sauce can make your sandwiches bland. Don’t skimp on spices; they are key to that Nashville flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and reheat sandwiches for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each sandwich for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches that you might find helpful:
What makes Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches so special?
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are known for their spicy kick and perfectly crispy texture. The unique blend of spices combined with juicy chicken creates a mouthwatering experience.
Can I use another type of chicken?
Yes! While boneless breasts are traditional, you can substitute with thighs or even tenders if you prefer. Just ensure they’re cooked thoroughly.
How spicy are Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?
The spiciness can vary based on how much cayenne you use in both the marinade and hot sauce. Adjust according to your heat preference!
What toppings go well with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?
Classic toppings include coleslaw, pickles, and mayo. You can also try adding cheese or avocado for extra flavor.
Can I make Nashville hot chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it before assembling your sandwiches.
Final Thoughts
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches bring joy with every bite! Their spicy, crunchy goodness makes them perfect for any meal. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Try this recipe today and discover why these sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser!
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are a must-try for spice lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike. This Southern classic features perfectly fried chicken coated in a fiery hot sauce, topped with refreshing coleslaw and crunchy pickles, all nestled between buttery toasted buns. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful crunch followed by a burst of flavor that leaves you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these sandwiches promise to bring excitement to your table. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cayenne powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 burger buns, buttered and toasted
- coleslaw
- mayonnaise
- pickles
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create cutlets, season with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, whisk buttermilk and hot sauce; in another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge chicken in the flour mixture, dip in the buttermilk mixture, then back into the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F). Transfer to a cooling rack.
- In a small bowl, combine hot oil with brown sugar and spices for the Nashville hot sauce; baste over warm chicken.
- Assemble sandwiches with mayonnaise on toasted buns topped with fried chicken, coleslaw, and pickles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (200g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
