Description

These Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are spicy, crispy, and irresistible! Made with juicy fried chicken coated in a fiery cayenne glaze, they’re served on buttery brioche buns with pickles and creamy coleslaw — the perfect Southern classic with serious heat!

Ingredients

**For the Chicken Marinade:**

2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs

1 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon hot sauce

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

**For the Breading:**

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

**For the Hot Oil Glaze:**

1/2 cup frying oil (from cooked chicken)

2 tablespoons cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

**For Assembly:**

4 brioche buns, toasted

1 cup coleslaw

1/2 cup dill pickle chips

1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, cover, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).

2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in seasoned flour, pressing to coat well.

3. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels.

4. In a small saucepan, whisk together hot oil glaze ingredients using about ½ cup of the frying oil. Brush or drizzle over hot fried chicken.

5. Butter and toast brioche buns until golden.

6. Assemble sandwiches: spread a spoonful of coleslaw on the bottom bun, add hot chicken, top with pickles, and drizzle extra glaze if desired.

7. Serve immediately for that authentic spicy, crunchy bite!

Notes

Adjust cayenne for your spice level — true Nashville-style is HOT!

For a lighter version, use the air fryer at 390°F for 16–18 minutes.

Serve with fries, mac and cheese, or potato salad for the full experience.

Leftover chicken stays crisp in the oven at 400°F for 5–7 minutes.