Introduction
Nashville hot chicken is a Southern classic known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This dish typically features fried chicken that has been marinated in a spicy buttermilk mixture, coated in a seasoned breading, and generously brushed with an extra spicy sauce. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or a comforting meal. Whether you’re a fan of heat or just looking to try something new, this homemade Nashville hot chicken recipe will satisfy your cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Marinade and Chicken:
– 2 cups buttermilk
– ½ cup pickle brine (from a jar of pickles)
– ¼ cup hot sauce
– 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Breading:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons ground paprika
– 1½ tablespoons seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s)
– 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 quarts canola oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
– ½ cup reserved frying oil (from frying the chicken)
– ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
– 2 tablespoons ground cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
Prep Time
1 hour to marinate (can be extended up to 24 hours)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Enjoy your homemade Nashville hot chicken!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, pickle brine, and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours.
Prepare the Breading:
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Bread the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere. For extra crispiness, dip the breaded chicken back into the marinade and then again into the flour mixture. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to help the breading set.
Fry the Chicken:
In a large cast-iron skillet or deep fryer, heat the canola oil to 325°F (163°C). Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the fried chicken to a clean wire rack to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a heatproof bowl, combine the reserved frying oil, melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Whisk until smooth.
Coat the Chicken:
Brush the spicy sauce over the fried chicken pieces, ensuring an even coating.
Serve:
Serve the Nashville hot chicken on slices of white bread with pickles on the side.
Notes
Marinade Time:
For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for a longer period of time if possible.
Extra Crispiness:
Dipping the chicken back into the marinade before the final coat of flour creates an extra crispy texture.
Oil Temperature:
Ensure the oil reaches the desired temperature before frying to achieve golden brown chicken; use a thermometer for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions:
Nashville hot chicken pairs well with traditional sides such as coleslaw or pickles.
Cook techniques
Marinating the Chicken
The chicken is marinated in a mixture of buttermilk, pickle brine, and hot sauce for at least 1 hour, which tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.
Preparing the Breading
A seasoned flour mixture is prepared with all-purpose flour, various spices, and powdered seasonings to create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
Breading the Chicken
The marinated chicken is dredged in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring a good adhere. For added crispiness, it can be dipped back in the marinade before another coat of flour.
Frying the Chicken
The breaded chicken is fried in hot canola oil at 325°F (163°C) in batches, preventing overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Each piece is cooked until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Preparing the Sauce
A spicy sauce is created by combining reserved frying oil with melted butter and various spices, whisking until smooth for an even coating.
Coating the Chicken
The fried chicken is brushed with the prepared spicy sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated to enhance flavor.
FAQ
Can I marinate the chicken for longer than 24 hours?
Marinating for more than 24 hours is not recommended as it can lead to overly soft chicken.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Is there a way to make the chicken less spicy?
To reduce the heat, you can decrease the amount of cayenne pepper in both the marinade and the sauce.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (204°C) for about 25-30 minutes, but frying gives a crispier texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Nashville hot chicken brings a delightful combination of spicy, tangy, and crispy textures to your plate. The marination and careful frying process ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor, while the special sauce adds an extra kick. This dish can serve as a perfect centerpiece for gatherings, bringing a taste of Southern comfort to your table. Enjoy it with the accompanying pickles and bread, or customize it to your liking!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
For a vegetarian option, coat cauliflower florets in a spicy buttermilk and hot sauce marinade, bread them, and fry or bake until crispy. Toss in a buffalo sauce for that kick!
Spicy Fried Fish
Swap chicken for fish fillets, using the same marinade and breading mixture. Fry until golden brown for a delicious seafood twist on the classic dish.
Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
Use chicken wings and marinate them in a soy sauce, honey, and garlic mixture. Bake or fry them, and toss with a honey and garlic sauce for a sweet and savory dish.
Southern-Style Biscuits
Serve your Nashville hot chicken with flaky homemade biscuits. Incorporate buttermilk into your biscuits for a rich flavor that complements the spiciness of the chicken.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
After frying the chicken, chop it up and serve it in corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of the spicy sauce for a flavorful taco night.
Mac and Cheese with a Kick
Prepare a classic mac and cheese but stir in some cayenne pepper and smoked paprika for a spicy twist that pairs perfectly with your hot chicken.
