Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders: Recipe & Guide

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Hey guys! Are you ready to fire up your taste buds with some seriously delicious Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders? This isn't just another chicken recipe; it's an experience. We're talking about juicy, crispy chicken tenders slathered in a fiery blend of spices that will have you reaching for a glass of milk (or maybe another tender!). If you've ever been to Nashville, you know what I'm talking about. If not, get ready for a culinary adventure right in your own kitchen. Let's dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can nail it every single time.

What Makes Nashville Hot Chicken So Special?

Nashville Hot Chicken is more than just spicy fried chicken; it's a cultural icon. Originating in Nashville, Tennessee, this dish is famous for its intense heat and unique flavor profile. The secret lies in the blend of spices used both in the marinade and the coating, as well as the fiery oil that's brushed on after frying. The result is a crispy, juicy, and intensely flavorful chicken that's unlike anything else you've ever tasted.

The History

The story goes that the original Nashville Hot Chicken was created by accident. Thornton Prince, a notorious womanizer, came home late one night, and his girlfriend, fed up with his philandering ways, decided to get revenge by making him a super spicy fried chicken. However, Thornton loved it so much that he decided to open his own chicken shack, which became the legendary Prince's Hot Chicken Shack. The rest, as they say, is history.

Key Ingredients

The key to authentic Nashville Hot Chicken lies in the spice blend. It typically includes cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and a few other secret ingredients. The heat comes primarily from the cayenne pepper, but the other spices add depth and complexity to the flavor. The chicken is usually marinated in buttermilk to keep it moist and tender, and the coating is a mix of flour and spices that create a crispy crust.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need to make these mouth-watering Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders. Don't worry, most of these are pantry staples, and the rest are easily found at your local grocery store.

For the Chicken:

    1. 5 lbs chicken tenders
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Hot Oil:

  • 1/2 cup reserved frying oil
  • 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders. Trust me; it's easier than you think.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenders, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the tenders are coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for tender, juicy chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. — Glynn County Inmate Search: How To Find Inmates

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure it's fully coated. Place the coated tenders on a wire rack. — WV Regional Jail Arrests: Mugshots & Records

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the tenders and place them on a clean wire rack to drain.

Step 5: Make the Hot Oil

Carefully remove about 1/2 cup of the hot frying oil and transfer it to a heat-safe bowl. Whisk in the cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar until well combined. This is your fiery secret weapon!

Step 6: Spice It Up

While the chicken is still hot, brush each tender with the hot oil mixture. Be generous if you like it extra spicy, or use a lighter touch if you prefer a milder heat.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders immediately. They're fantastic on their own, or you can serve them with classic sides like pickles, coleslaw, and white bread. Don't forget a cold drink to cool down your taste buds!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are a hit every time, here are a few extra tips and tricks.

Use a Thermometer

A reliable meat thermometer is your best friend when frying chicken. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.

Don't Overcrowd the Pot

Frying too many tenders at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain a consistent temperature. — Detroit Tigers Schedule: Dates, Times, And TV Info

Adjust the Spice Level

Not a fan of intense heat? Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating and hot oil. You can always add more later if needed.

Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness

For an extra crispy crust, dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture, then dip them back into the buttermilk, and then dredge them in the flour mixture again before frying.

Serving Suggestions

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

  • Classic: Serve with pickles, coleslaw, and white bread.
  • Sandwich: Make a Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich with your favorite toppings.
  • Salad: Top a salad with sliced tenders for a spicy kick.
  • Tacos: Use the tenders as a filling for tacos with a creamy slaw.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Your guide to making authentic Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders right in your own kitchen. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or any time you're craving some spicy, crispy goodness. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking and experiment with different serving suggestions. Now get out there and start cooking! And remember, the hotter, the better!