Craving a fiery sandwich that delivers crispy, juicy perfection in every bite? Look no further than the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe! This outrageously flavorful recipe layers ultra-crunchy, seasoned fried chicken with a sweet-and-spicy hot oil glaze, then stacks it high on a toasted bun with creamy mayo, tangy coleslaw, and crisp pickles. It’s a full-on flavor explosion—equal parts comfort and excitement—destined to become your new favorite homemade treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is just how simple, accessible, and effective the ingredients are. Every single component, from the buttermilk soak to the pickles on top, plays a specific role in making these Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe taste so unforgettable!
- Chicken Breasts: Slicing them in half keeps every sandwich juicy and ensures that perfect tender bite.
- Buttermilk: This tangy liquid works wonders for tenderizing the chicken and coaxing maximum flavor out of every piece.
- Hot Sauce: Mix into the buttermilk for a subtle heat that penetrates deep into the chicken.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the crispy crust—don’t skimp!
- Cornstarch (or More Flour): A secret weapon in achieving extra crunch; cornstarch keeps the breading super light and delicate.
- Spices (Cayenne, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper): These balance heat and savoriness for layers of flavor in every crunchy bite.
- Frying Oil or Melted Butter: Use leftover frying oil for authentic taste or swap in butter for an extra decadent glaze.
- Brown Sugar: The subtle sweetness is the signature contrast to the heat in true Nashville style.
- Extra Spices (Cayenne, Chili Powder, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder): These are whisked into the hot oil for a smoky, spicy finish.
- Burger Buns (Buttered & Toasted): A golden, sturdy base that holds up to all the saucy, juicy goodness.
- Coleslaw: Creamy, fresh, and tangy, coleslaw cools things down and adds crunch.
- Mayonnaise: Just a swipe on the bun adds comfort and ties all the flavors together.
- Pickles: That irresistible vinegary zing is essential for the classic Nashville experience!
How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally—you want four thinner pieces that cook quickly and stay juicy. Generously season each piece with salt and pepper for a simple base that lets all the flavors shine. In one bowl, whisk your buttermilk and hot sauce together for a spicy marinade. In another, combine your flour, cornstarch, and essential spices. This is the first layer of flavor that makes this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe so unforgettable!
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Dredge the seasoned chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shake off any excess, then dip each one into the buttermilk. Return them to the flour mix and press firmly so the coating sticks and creates tiny craggy bits—that’s the secret to a super-crunchy crust. Don’t rush this step; the better the crust, the better your sandwiches!
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat about two inches of high-heat oil in a heavy-duty pan until it reaches 350ºF. Gently fry each piece for about three minutes per side, resisting the urge to move them around too much; this allows the crust to really lock onto the chicken. Your kitchen will smell incredible as the chicken transforms into crisp, golden perfection. When done, transfer the chicken to a rack so it stays extra crunchy.
Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
With the chicken hot out of the fryer, immediately make your signature hot oil glaze. Spoon out a half cup of that fragrant oil (or use melted butter for a richer vibe) and whisk in the brown sugar and all those bold spices—cayenne, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder. As soon as it’s well mixed, brush or drizzle generously over your chicken. This color-packed glaze is what makes Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe truly stand out.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Now comes the best part—building your masterpiece! Spread mayo on the bottom bun, add your freshly basted hot chicken, and top with a handful of creamy coleslaw and plenty of pickles. Cap it all with the toasted bun, press gently, and get ready for the most satisfying bite you’ll take all week.
How to Serve Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe

Garnishes
A few thoughtful garnishes take each sandwich to the next level. Extra pickle chips, a sprinkle of chopped green onion, or a dash of fresh cracked black pepper add color and crunch. If you really want to impress, a thin drizzle of honey over the top balances the heat with a hint of sweetness, making your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
These sandwiches are a meal in themselves, but they absolutely sing alongside a few simple sides. Try serving them with crispy fries, kettle chips, or even a cool, creamy mac and cheese. For something lighter, tangy vinegar slaw or pickled veggies are a perfect, palate-cleansing touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your sandwiches tall on a platter with mini flags or skewers holding them together for that “diner special” vibe. Or wrap them up in wax paper and pack them picnic-style, perfect for a backyard feast. With the wow factor from all those vibrant colors and textures, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe always look like a party on a plate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover fried chicken cutlets, let them cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready for a repeat of the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe experience, you’ll be glad you saved a few extras!
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze if you want to keep chicken on hand for future cravings. Arrange cooled, fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealable freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and crunch for about two months. Just be sure to freeze them without sauce for the best texture.
Reheating
Bring sandwiches back to life by reheating chicken in a 375ºF oven or air fryer for 10–15 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that epic crunch. Once reheated, toss with hot oil and assemble your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe just like day one!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as tasty in this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe and deliver loads of juicy flavor. Simply adjust for thickness and cook time as needed.
How spicy is this recipe?
It has a classic Nashville kick, but you are in control. Adjust the cayenne in both the breading and the hot oil glaze to turn the heat up or down. Either way, the flavor balance stays absolutely delicious.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
While baking won’t deliver the same signature crunch, you can still get golden, tasty results! Brush your breaded chicken with oil and bake at 425ºF until crispy and cooked through. It’s a great alternative for a lighter version of Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe.
What type of pickles work best?
Dill pickles are the classic choice to cut through the rich, spicy chicken, but bread-and-butter pickles add a delightful sweetness. Feel free to use your personal favorite for a unique spin!
How do I keep the crust crunchy when making ahead?
Let the fried chicken cool on a rack instead of a plate to prevent sogginess, and store loosely covered. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before assembling your Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe, and add the hot oil glaze right before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a new crave-worthy classic, give this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe a try! It brings excitement to the table, packs major character into every bite, and is the kind of dish you’ll want to share with everyone. Fire up your skillet and discover why this spicy, crunchy delight is a homemade favorite you’ll never get tired of!
PrintNashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches Yummy Recipe
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches are bursting with the most delicious spicy, slightly sweet flavor! Perfectly seasoned fried chicken with a super crunchy crust and juicy, moist center is coated in an irresistible hot sauce, then served on a toasted bun with mayo, coleslaw and pickles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch or more flour
- 1 teaspoon EACH cayenne, garlic powder, salt, black pepper
For the Dipping Oil:
- ½ cup frying oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cayenne powder
- ½ teaspoon EACH chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder
To Assemble the Sandwiches:
- 4 burger buns buttered and toasted
- coleslaw
- mayonnaise
- pickles
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make 4 thin cutlets. Season each side of the chicken with salt & pepper. Whisk buttermilk and hot sauce in a small shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch and spices.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in buttermilk, and back into the flour, pressing firmly to coat both sides of the chicken. Shake of excess flour in order to create small (crumbs) which will become the crunchy bits of the sandwich.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large heavy-duty pan to 350ºF. Cook chicken breasts for 3 minutes per side or until the exterior is dark and crunchy and the interior reaches 165ºF. Remove from oil and transfer to a cooling rack.
- Make the Nashville Hot Sauce: When all of the chicken is fried, take a 1/2 cup of the hot cooking oil and add it to a small bowl. Add the sugar and spices and whisk to combine. Baste the chicken with the hot oil mixture while the chicken is still hot. If the oil is too burned, feel free to use a combo of melted butter and oil or just melted butter.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread about 1 tablespoon of mayo onto the bottom of a toasted bun. Add the chicken sandwich followed by some coleslaw and pickles. Serve immediately.
Notes
- If you have leftover chicken patties, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or in an air fryer until warm and crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (chicken and bun only)
- Calories: 644 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 468mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 76mg