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–+ servings

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Crispy, juicy fried chicken brushed with signature Nashville hot oil and served on a toasted brioche bun with pickles. A bold food truck classic known for its crunchy coating and spicy kick.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinate Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Food Truck, Southern
Servings 4 sandwiches
Calories 640 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Deep fryer or heavy-bottom pot
Tongs
Wire rack
Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

Chicken Marinade

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Seasoned Flour Dredge

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper

Nashville Hot Oil

  • 1/2 cup hot frying oil carefully taken from fryer
  • 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder

For Serving

  • 4 brioche buns toasted
  • dill pickle slices
  • coleslaw optional
  • mayonnaise optional

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum tenderness.
  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
  • Combine flour and spices in a bowl. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge thoroughly, pressing flour firmly into the chicken for a crisp coating.
  • Carefully fry chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Transfer chicken to a wire rack and rest for several minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Whisk cayenne, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and chili powder into the hot frying oil to create the Nashville hot sauce.
  • Brush the hot oil generously over the fried chicken.
  • Assemble sandwiches on toasted brioche buns with pickles and optional toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Allergy Warning: This recipe contains dairy (buttermilk), gluten (all-purpose flour and brioche buns), and eggs (typically found in brioche and mayonnaise). Some hot sauces may contain soy. Always review product labels carefully.
Cross-Contamination: If preparing for someone with severe allergies, ensure frying oil and cooking surfaces have not been exposed to allergens.
Dietary Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with unsweetened plant-based milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar. For gluten-free preparation, use a certified gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free buns.

Nutrition

Calories: 640kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 34gFat: 38g
Keyword Nashville Hot Chicken, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Street Food
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