Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are a deliciously spicy and slightly sweet meal that everyone will love! These sandwiches feature perfectly seasoned fried chicken, boasting a crunchy crust and juicy interior. Topped with creamy mayo, tangy coleslaw, and crisp pickles, they are perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or a weekend treat. You won’t be able to resist their bold flavors!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For Frying
• For the Hot Sauce
• For Serving
• How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
• Step 1: Prep the Chicken
• Step 2: Bread the Chicken
• Step 3: Fry the Chicken
• Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
• Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
• How to Serve Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
• With Extra Spicy Sauce
• On a Sweet Bun
• With Creamy Ranch Dressing
• Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables
• Topped with Fried Egg
• With Avocado Slices
• How to Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
• Best Side Dishes for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
• Reheating Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches less spicy?
• What toppings go well with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?
• Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
• How long does it take to prepare Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavors: These sandwiches are packed with an irresistible spicy kick that satisfies your taste buds.
• Crunchy Texture: The double breading technique ensures a super crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 40 minutes, you can whip these up on a busy weekday or for last-minute guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the level of heat or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Serve Anytime: Whether it’s game day, a picnic, or a family dinner, these Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are always a hit!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches, having the right tools on hand is essential for the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-duty pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-duty pan: Ideal for frying at high temperatures while ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients and preparing your chicken without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing buttermilk and hot sauce smoothly.
• Cooling rack: Allows excess oil to drain from the fried chicken while keeping it crispy.

Ingredients

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches require the following 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 Serving

• 4 burger buns (buttered and toasted)
• Coleslaw
• Mayonnaise
• Pickles

How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets.
2. Season each side of the chicken with salt and black pepper.
3. In a small shallow bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
4. In another shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour mixture until fully coated.
2. Dip into buttermilk mixture to moisten both sides.
3. Return to flour mixture and press firmly to ensure an even coating.
4. Shake off any excess flour—this creates those crunchy bits.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat about 2 inches of oil in your cast iron skillet or heavy-duty pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350ºF (175ºC).
2. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil; fry for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Check that each piece has reached an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
4. Remove from oil and transfer to a cooling rack to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of hot cooking oil from frying with brown sugar and spices (cayenne powder, chili powder, smoked paprika).
2. Whisk until well combined.
3. While chicken is still hot, baste generously with this spicy oil mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread about 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
2. Place one piece of fried chicken on top followed by some coleslaw.
3. Add pickles as desired before topping with the other half of the bun.
4. Serve immediately for maximum crunchiness!

How to Serve Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic meal that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Extra Spicy Sauce

• Add more hot sauce directly on the chicken for those who crave an extra kick. This enhances the flavor and heat of the sandwich.

On a Sweet Bun

• Opt for brioche or Hawaiian rolls for a touch of sweetness. The soft, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken, creating a delightful contrast.

With Creamy Ranch Dressing

• Drizzle ranch dressing over the coleslaw or serve it on the side. This cool, creamy addition balances the heat of the chicken perfectly.

Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables

• Serve pickled jalapeños or carrots alongside your sandwich. The tanginess cuts through the richness and adds another layer of flavor.

Topped with Fried Egg

• For an indulgent twist, add a fried egg on top of your chicken. The runny yolk adds richness and makes each bite even more satisfying.

With Avocado Slices

• Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats. This addition not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition.

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How to Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

To achieve the ultimate Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, keep these tips in mind for perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices ensure vibrant flavors. Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.

• Control Oil Temperature: Maintaining oil at 350ºF is crucial for achieving that crispy crust without overcooking the chicken inside.

• Double Dredge Technique: Dredging twice in flour creates extra crunch. Pressing firmly helps form a thick crust that locks in moisture.

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the fried chicken to rest briefly helps retain its juiciness. It also allows flavors from the hot sauce to meld perfectly.

• Customize Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, then build up gradually.

• Experiment with Buns: Try different types of buns like potato rolls or ciabatta for varied textures and flavors that complement the spicy chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Pairing side dishes with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Coleslaw: A classic side that provides crunch and creaminess, balancing out the spice from the chicken.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with salt make for a beloved pairing; try sweet potato fries for a sweeter alternative.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy macaroni offers comfort and complements the sandwich’s spiciness.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and freshness that contrasts nicely with hot chicken.
5. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can provide a cooling effect to offset the heat of the sandwich.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add a hearty element to your meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
7. Pickle Chips: Crunchy pickle chips offer an extra tangy bite, serving as an excellent palate cleanser between bites of spicy chicken.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes bring Southern charm and acidity that pairs well with rich sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches, there are several common mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these will help ensure your sandwiches turn out perfectly spicy and flavorful.

• Skipping the Buttermilk: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Make sure to soak your chicken for at least an hour to keep it juicy.
• Underestimating the Spice: Adding too little cayenne may result in bland chicken. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preference for a perfect kick.
• Neglecting Oil Temperature: Cooking chicken in oil that’s not hot enough can make it greasy. Always preheat your oil to 350ºF before frying for a crispy texture.
• Rushing Assembly: Assembling the sandwich while the chicken is still hot ensures better flavor absorption. Letting it sit might cause sogginess.
• Using Fresh Buns: Opting for stale buns can ruin the sandwich experience. Always use fresh, toasted buns for optimal taste and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover 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, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF. Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered with a lid, until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches that may help you during preparation.

How do I make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches less spicy?

To decrease spiciness, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce used in both the marinade and sauce.

What toppings go well with Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?

Popular toppings include coleslaw, pickles, or even sliced tomatoes and lettuce for added freshness and crunch.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option while maintaining similar flavors.

How long does it take to prepare Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including both prep and cooking times, making it a quick yet satisfying meal option!

Final Thoughts

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are not only incredibly delicious but also customizable based on personal preferences. You can adjust the spice level or add different toppings such as cheese or avocado. Try this recipe today for an irresistible meal that satisfies everyone at your table!