Hot Chicken Plate
Nashville hot chicken served with your choice of sides. Customers can choose their spice level, ranging from 'Mild' to 'Shut the Cluck Up!!!'.
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.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Nashville hot chicken's origin is traced back to the 1930s and the Thornton family. Legend says that after Thornton cheated on his girlfriend, she sought revenge by creating an extra-spicy chicken dish. However, Thornton surprisingly loved it, leading to the creation of Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, which popularized the dish. It remained a local favorite for decades before exploding in popularity nationwide in the 21st century.
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 blend of Southern comfort food with a daring and modern twist.
Local Pride
Nashville hot chicken is a source of great pride for Nashvillians, with many restaurants fiercely competing for the title of 'best' hot chicken.
Culinary Tourism
The dish has become a major draw for culinary tourists, with visitors flocking to Nashville specifically to experience authentic hot chicken.
Community Gathering
Hot chicken restaurants are often lively community gathering places, reflecting the city's welcoming and social atmosphere.
Nashville hot chicken is characterized by its intense heat and complex spice profile. The dish combines fiery chili peppers with savory spices, creating a uniquely addictive flavor experience.
The primary flavor profile revolves around cayenne pepper, which provides the foundational heat. This is complemented by other spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar (for sweetness and caramelization), salt, and black pepper. The chicken is typically marinated or brined to ensure juiciness and enhance the flavor. The heat level is controlled by the amount of cayenne pepper and the addition of other hot peppers or chili extracts. The 'Mild' to 'Shut the Cluck Up!!!' spice levels offer a range from a manageable tingle to an almost unbearable inferno. Common sides, like pickles and white bread, help cool the palate and provide textural contrast.
Start Mild
If you're new to hot chicken, start with a mild spice level and work your way up to gauge your tolerance. 'Medium' can often be surprisingly spicy for the uninitiated.
Prepare for the Heat
Have milk, bread, and pickles readily available to help cool down your palate if the heat becomes too intense. Avoid sugary drinks, as they can exacerbate the burning sensation.
Embrace the Mess
Hot chicken is a messy dish! Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Consider the Sides
The sides, such as mac and cheese, coleslaw, or potato salad, are not just accompaniments but are chosen to complement the heat of the chicken and provide balance to the meal.
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