The Ultimate Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

by Kevin Cossairt

Introduction

Nashville Hot Chicken is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. It’s spicy, crispy, and packed with flavor, making it a fan favorite for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals. I believe that using good ingredients and a lot of love in my cooking makes all the difference. That extra bit of care and attention to detail transforms a simple meal into something truly special. This sandwich takes everything great about Nashville Hot Chicken and turns it into the ultimate handheld experience. Whether you’re deep frying or using an air fryer, this sandwich delivers that irresistible crunch and bold spice in every bite.

If you love crispy chicken sandwiches, hot honey chicken sandwiches, or healthier fried chicken sandwich alternatives, you’re in the right place. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich at home.

Key Points

A great Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich starts with a few key elements. Here’s what makes this sandwich stand out:

Main Points:

  • Crispy and Juicy Chicken – A double dredge and buttermilk marinade ensure maximum crispiness while keeping the chicken tender inside.
  • Bold Spices – Cayenne, smoked paprika, and hot sauce come together for that signature Nashville heat.
  • Creamy Slaw – A cool, tangy slaw balances the spice and adds crunch to every bite.

Additional Details:

  • Options for Frying or Air Frying – Make this sandwich with a deep fryer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. for authentic crispiness or opt for the air fryer for a healthier approach.
  • Customizable Heat Levels – Adjust the spice level to your liking by increasing or decreasing the cayenne in the hot sauce mixture.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – Make the slaw ahead of time and marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor.

How to Approach Making the Perfect Hot Chicken Sandwich

This process may seem involved, but with the right approach, it’s easy to get that restaurant-quality crunch at home.

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Letting the chicken soak in buttermilk, hot sauce, and seasonings deepens the flavor and ensures tenderness. If time allows, marinate overnight for the best results.
  1. Double Dredge for Maximum Crunch: Coating the chicken twice in seasoned flour helps lock in that crispy texture.
  1. Choose Your Cooking Method: If deep frying, use oil heated to 350°F. If air frying, cook at 400°F, flipping halfway through.
  1. Coat in Nashville Hot Sauce: The final step is brushing the fried chicken with a spicy, buttery sauce for that signature heat.

Tips for Best Results

Want to take your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich to the next level? Follow these tips:

  • For extra heat: Increase the cayenne pepper in the hot sauce.
  • For a thicker crust: Let the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying.
  • For a balanced flavor: Serve with a cold side like coleslaw or pickles to offset the heat.
  • For meal prep: The slaw can be made a day ahead, and the chicken can marinate overnight.
  • For a healthier option: Try the air fryer method for a crispy finish with less oil.

Additional Resources

If you love this recipe, check out these other chicken sandwich variations:

  • Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich – A sweet and spicy twist with a honey drizzle.
  • Healthier Fried Chicken Sandwich – All the crunch, but air-fried.
  • Homemade Shredded Chicken Sandwiches – A slow-cooked version that’s just as flavorful.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Ultimate Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is crispy, spicy, and packed with bold flavors. Made with a buttermilk-marinated, double-dredged chicken breast, coated in a fiery hot sauce, and served on a toasted bun with creamy slaw, this sandwich is the perfect balance of heat and crunch. Whether deep-fried or air-fried, it’s a must-try for any spicy chicken lover!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half to make 4 pieces)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s Red Hot or similar)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce

For the Creamy Slaw:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded green cabbage or 1/4 head of cabbage sliced thin
  • 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage (optional)
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • 4 brioche buns, potato buns or keto buns
  • 8 dill pickle slices

2 tablespoons butter (for toasting buns)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
  2. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Prepare the Dry Coating:

  1. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture.
  3. Dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour again for an extra crispy crust. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.

3. Fry the Chicken:

  1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. If you have a deep fryer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site., that works even better.
  2. Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil and fry for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should be 165°F.
  3. Remove and place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

4. Make the Nashville Hot Sauce:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and hot sauce.
  2. Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the fried chicken with the hot sauce.

5. Make the Creamy Slaw:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Tabasco sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Toss with the shredded cabbage, red onion, and carrots. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to blend.

6. Toast the Buns:

  1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Toast the brioche buns cut side down until golden brown.

7. Assemble the Sandwiches:

  1. Spread a layer of slaw on the bottom bun.
  2. Place the hot, crispy chicken on top.
  3. Add two pickle slices per sandwich.
  4. Place the top bun on and gently press down.

Air Fryer Version:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Prepare the chicken as directed, coating it with the buttermilk mixture and dredging in the seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the coated chicken inside, ensuring they do not overlap.
  4. Lightly spray the top of the chicken with oil.
  5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  6. Coat the cooked chicken with the Nashville hot sauce and assemble as directed.

Serving Suggestions:

 

  • Serve with fries, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries.
  • Pair with mac and cheese, coleslaw, or a simple cucumber salad.
  • A cold glass of sweet tea or a milkshake balances out the heat.

Equipment

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site.

Notes

Pro Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich:

 

  • For extra heat: Increase the cayenne pepper in the sauce.
  • For extra crunch: Let the coated chicken sit for 5-10 minutes before frying.
  • For even more flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight in buttermilk.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

  • This crispy, spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is perfect for lunch or dinner.
  • Serve it with fries, mac and cheese, or a fresh side salad for a full meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

THIS TASTES GREAT WITH NO BUN TOO!! I had it for lunch today and was fantastic.

Stay Connected!

📌 Save this recipe for later and try it out!
💬 Leave a comment—have you ever made a sandwich like this before?
📢 Follow me for more delicious recipes!
▶️ YouTube: @KevinsDailyDish
📌 Pinterest: Kevin’s Daily Dish
📩 Check out my full collection of recipes: Kevin’s Daily Dish