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Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is a fiery delight, featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a bold blend of spices and smothered in a fiery hot sauce. This sandwich packs a punch with its intense heat and savory flavors, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more.
Course Lunch
Cuisine American
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 650kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Tongs
  • Deep-fry thermometer
  • Large skillet or deep-fryer
  • Cooling Rack
  • Paper towels
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Toaster or grill pan (optional)

Ingredients

For the chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the hot sauce

  • ½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

For assembling the sandwich

  • 4 brioche buns, split
  • Dill pickle slices
  • Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This will be the coating for the chicken.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep-fryer to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the chicken fully submerge in oil.
  • Take out the chicken from the buttermilk, and let any excess drip off. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Carefully place the chicken breasts into the hot oil, using tongs. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Do not waste time and prepare hot sauce until the chicken is frying. In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Immediately brush the hot sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  • Optional: Lightly toast the brioche buns on a toaster or grill pan.
  • To assemble the sandwich, place a hot chicken breast on the bottom half of each bun. Top it with pickle slices and coleslaw if desired. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bun.
  • Serve the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich immediately while it's still hot and enjoy the fiery and flavorful experience!