A Comprehensive Guide to Cooking Authentic Nashville Hot Chicken

Nashville hot chicken, a spicy delicacy beloved across the South, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Its origin can be traced to Henderson, Tennessee, where it was first served at the Columbus Street Fried Chicken restaurant by the Bell family. Today, Nashville hot chicken is famous for its distinctive spicy kick, perfectly balanced crispy skin, and juicy meat. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of crafting this delightful dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, etc.) Black pepper Hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot) Buttermilk Flour Vegetable oil (for frying) Cayenne pepper Brown sugar Chili powder Garlic powder Paprika Instant-read thermometer Bread and pickles (for serving)

Preparation Steps

The first step in cooking Nashville hot chicken is to prepare your chicken. Start by

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the Chicken
Toss chicken with black pepper and 2 Tbsp. salt in a large bowl. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 3 hours. This step allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and ensures a more flavorful final product.

Step 2: Preparing the Dredging Mixtures

Frying Batter Preparation
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce. This will be the dipping sauce for your chicken, providing the initial flavor and moisture.

Deggreasing the Chicken
In another large bowl, whisk flour and remaining 4 tsp. salt. This will be the coating for your chicken, providing a crispy exterior once fried.

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

Preparing the Dutch Oven
Fit a Dutch oven with a thermometer and fill it with oil to measure 2”. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until the thermometer registers 325°F (163°C).

Patting the Chicken Dry
Using paper towels, pat the chicken dry to remove excess moisture, which will help the flour stick better.

Coating the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the chicken in the buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip back into the bowl. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture again and place it on a baking sheet.

Frying the Chicken
Working in batches, ensure the oil stays at 325°F (163°C) between batches. Fry the chicken, turning occasionally, until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature: 160°F for white meat and 165°F for dark meat. This process typically takes 15-18 minutes per batch.

Draining the Chicken
Transfer the fried chicken to a clean wire rack set inside a baking sheet to let excess oil drain. Allow the oil to cool slightly before proceeding with the next step.

Step 4: Spicing Up the Chicken

Spicy Oil Preparation
In a medium bowl, whisk together cayenne pepper, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Carefully whisk in 1 cup of the frying oil to create a spicy, flavorful glaze.

Basting the Chicken
Brush the fried chicken with the spicy oil to add an extra layer of flavor and spiciness. This step is crucial for adding that famous Nashville hot chicken kick.

Steps for Serving

Serving Nashville Hot Chicken
Serve the hot chicken with slices of bread (for wiping up the spicy oil) and pickles (for cooling down the heat). The combination of the spicy chicken, creamy and tangy bread, and zesty pickles creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

Enjoy Your Dishes
Deliciously crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Nashville hot chicken offers a unique taste and texture experience. This dish is best enjoyed with friends and on a relaxed evening. Enjoy your cooking!

Conclusion

With this comprehensive guide, you are now well-equipped to recreate the authentic Nashville hot chicken right in your own kitchen. Experiment with different spices and ingredients to find your preferred balance of heat and flavor. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, Nashville hot chicken is sure to provide a mouth-watering and memorable experience.