Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are bold, fiery, and unapologetically indulgent.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Breading
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Nashville Hot Sauce
- ½ cup frying oil (from the pan)
- 2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- For Serving
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- Dill pickle chips
- Optional: coleslaw or mayo
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine flour and seasonings. Dredge chicken thoroughly.
- Fry chicken 6–8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Whisk hot sauce ingredients together.
- Brush sauce generously over fried chicken.
- Assemble sandwiches with pickles (and slaw if using).
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts.
- Start mild and add cayenne gradually—the heat builds fast.
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are bold, fiery, and unapologetically indulgent. Crispy fried chicken is coated in a signature spicy oil sauce made with cayenne, paprika, and brown sugar, delivering heat that’s smoky, slightly sweet, and addictive.
The crunchy exterior gives way to juicy, tender chicken, while toasted brioche buns provide the perfect soft contrast. Classic dill pickles cut through the richness with tang and crunch, balancing every bite. This sandwich is all about contrast—hot and cool, crispy and soft, savory and sweet. While traditionally known for its intense heat, this recipe is easily adjustable, making it approachable for spice lovers of all levels. Whether served with fries, slaw, or on its own, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches feel like comfort food with an edge. Perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something bold, messy, and completely satisfying.
