Hot Chicken Sandwich
Hattie B's signature Nashville hot chicken served on a bun with coleslaw, pickles, and comeback sauce.
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 originated in Nashville, Tennessee, likely in the 1930s or 40s. Legend has it that it was created by accident when Thornton Prince's girlfriend intentionally added excessive amounts of pepper to his fried chicken as revenge for his alleged infidelity. However, Prince surprisingly enjoyed the intensely spicy chicken, and it eventually led to the creation of Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, the original home of Nashville Hot Chicken.
Nashville Hot Chicken has become a significant part of Nashville's culinary identity and a symbol of the city's vibrant food scene. It has gained national and international recognition, attracting tourists and food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Nashville.
Local Staple
Nashville Hot Chicken is deeply ingrained in the local food culture, with numerous restaurants specializing in this spicy delicacy.
Tourism Driver
The dish is a major draw for culinary tourism, attracting visitors eager to experience the authentic Nashville Hot Chicken.
Community and Competition
The popularity of Nashville Hot Chicken has fostered a sense of community and friendly competition among restaurants, each striving to perfect their unique version of the dish.
The Hattie B's Hot Chicken Sandwich delivers a fiery combination of intense heat, savory fried chicken, and cooling accompaniments. The sandwich is characterized by its spicy, crispy chicken, balanced by the sweetness of coleslaw, the tang of pickles, and the creamy richness of comeback sauce.
The core flavor profile is built upon the fried chicken, which is coated in a blend of spices featuring cayenne pepper as the dominant source of heat. The intensity of the spice varies depending on the 'heat level' chosen. The coleslaw provides a refreshing and slightly sweet counterpoint to the heat. Pickles add a tangy and acidic element, cutting through the richness of the chicken and sauce. The comeback sauce, a mayonnaise-based sauce, contributes a creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Heat Level Selection
Be mindful of the heat levels. 'Mild' is manageable for most, while 'Shut the Cluck Up!!!' is extremely spicy and recommended only for seasoned chili-heads. Start lower and work your way up on subsequent visits.
Side Choices
Consider ordering sides that complement the heat, such as mac and cheese, potato salad, or black-eyed peas. These provide a cooling and contrasting flavor.
Drink Preparation
Have a beverage readily available to combat the heat. Milk, lemonade, or sweet tea are good choices.
Napkin Strategy
Be prepared for a messy experience. Multiple napkins are essential.
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