Nashville Hot Chicken
Nashville Hot Chicken is a spicy fried chicken dish that originated in Nashville, Tennessee. The combination of a crispy fried chicken exterior and a fiery, cayenne-based seasoning makes this dish a true delight for the senses.
Equipment
- heavy-bottomed pot or dutch oven
Ingredients
- 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken (a mix of drumsticks and thighs)
- 2 cups buttermilk for marinating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt for seasoning
- Vegetable oil as needed for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and salt. Dredge the buttermilk-soaked chicken pieces in the seasoned flour, coating them evenly.
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
- For the best results, serve the Nashville Hot Chicken immediately, with extra cayenne pepper seasoning on the side for those who want an extra kick of heat. Enjoy this iconic dish with pickles, white bread, and your favorite sides.
Notes
This dish should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Practicing portion control is advised.