Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Buttermilk fried chicken tossed in Nashville hot sauce, slaw, comeback sauce and pickles.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Batch New Southern Kitchen and Tap
Nashville Hot Chicken's origin is often attributed to the Thornton family in Nashville, Tennessee. Legend has it that a scorned lover, in an act of revenge, spiked Andre Thornton's fried chicken with excessive amounts of cayenne pepper. However, Andre loved the fiery result, leading him and his family to perfect the recipe and open Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, which remains a Nashville institution.
Nashville Hot Chicken has become an integral part of Nashville's culinary identity and a symbol of the city's vibrant food scene. It represents a unique blend of Southern comfort food with a bold, contemporary twist.
Nashville Icon
Nashville Hot Chicken is deeply associated with Nashville's culinary culture, attracting tourists and locals alike to experience its unique flavor.
Community & Competition
Numerous restaurants in Nashville specialize in Hot Chicken, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition to create the best and hottest version.
Hot Chicken Festivals
The dish is celebrated through annual festivals dedicated to Hot Chicken, showcasing the variety of styles and heat levels available.
The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is a symphony of heat, spice, and contrasting cool elements. It's a balance of fiery, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
The core flavor is intense heat from cayenne pepper and other spices rubbed onto or mixed into a paste applied to the fried chicken. This is balanced by the savory richness of the fried chicken itself, often brined or marinated beforehand. The creamy coleslaw provides a cool, sweet, and tangy contrast to the heat, while the pickles offer a sharp, acidic counterpoint. The brioche bun adds a touch of sweetness and a soft texture.
Spice Level Control
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and other spices to achieve your desired heat level. Start with a small amount and gradually increase to find your preference.
Quality Ingredients
Use high-quality chicken, fresh spices, and a good brioche bun for the best flavor. Brining the chicken beforehand will ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
Coleslaw Balance
Ensure the coleslaw is creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy to provide a cooling counterpoint to the heat of the chicken. A vinegar-based coleslaw can also work well.
Oil Temperature
Maintain a consistent oil temperature during frying (around 325-350°F) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a crispy crust. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
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