Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Milder Version

Ever tried a sandwich that could change your life? Grab a seat because this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is a game-changer that’ll have your taste buds dancing and your friends begging for brunch invitations!

I made a milder version of the classic Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, and it still has heat but is balanced with a hint of sweetness. I marinated chicken thighs in buttermilk, with a little hot sauce (not much, given the ratio of chicken to marinade), which made the chicken super tender and tangy.

The marinade definitely dripped off when I put the chicken in the upright position for scraping, mixing, and folding—in other words, for making the batter and (in my case) the half-bread-crumb, half-ground-pork coating.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Milder Version Ingredients

• Buttermilk: Rich in probiotics, tenderizes chicken, and adds tangy flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Provides a crispy coating, key for texture in frying.
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and aromatic flavor to the breading.
• Cayenne pepper: Provides heat and vibrant color, adjustable for spice level.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and balance to spicy cayenne, enhances flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky aroma, with mild spice for complexity.
• Pickle slices: Offer a crunchy texture contrast and tangy bite to the sandwich.
• Coleslaw: Adds a fresh crunch and creamy element, balancing spice.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Milder Version Ingredient Quantities

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/4 cup cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 4 hamburger buns
• Pickle slices
• Coleslaw (for topping)

How to Make this Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Milder Version

1. In a big bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce. Put in the chicken pieces, and make sure they are completely under the liquid. Marinate in the refrigerator for 60 minutes.

2. In a shallow dish, blend together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Take the chicken from the buttermilk mix. Let any excess drip off. Dredge each piece into the mixture of flour and seasonings. Then, pause before cooking to let the coating set.

4. In a heavy skillet, pour in vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high until it registers 350°F on a deep-fat thermometer.

5. Cook the chicken thighs in a skillet in batches, turning occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes per side; drain on paper towels.

6. In a tiny dish, blend the cayenne pepper, brown sugar, chili powder, and smoked paprika. In a most cautious manner, incorporate the melted butter into the dish and stir until the contents resemble a paste-like sauce.

7. Apply the spicy butter sauce to the fried chicken thighs, using a brush to cover the surface of the meat evenly.

8. Lightly toast the hamburger buns in a hot skillet or toaster.

9. Construct the sandwiches by putting a chicken thigh on the lower half of every bun. Add pickle slices and coleslaw on top.

10. Top with the bun and serve hot!
Enjoy the not-too-hot yet very delicious Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Milder Version Equipment Needed

1. Large bowl
2. Shallow dish
3. Skillet (heavy)
4. Deep-fat thermometer
5. Tongs
6. Paper towels
7. Small dish
8. Pastry brush
9. Toaster or second skillet (for toasting buns)

FAQ

• What cut of chicken is best for this sandwich?They recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they are so juicy and flavorful.
• Can I make the chicken less spicy?If you want a milder version, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to your taste.
• Is there a substitute for buttermilk?A substitute for buttermilk can be made using a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• What kind of oil is best for frying?It is advised to use vegetable oil because of its neutral taste and high smoke point.
• Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?Certainly! Baking chicken at 400°F (200°C) will yield fully cooked chicken in 25-30 minutes. This method is fast and reliable.
• What toppings go well with the sandwich?Slice pickles and coleslaw to accompany the flavors and add a nice crunch.
• How can I store leftovers?Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store it in the container and make sure it’s airtight.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe Milder Version Substitutions and Variations

Buttermilk: Replace with 1 cup of milk combined with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar (allow it to sit for 5 minutes before using).
Sauce that is hot: Employ sriracha or chipotle sauces to achieve a different flavor profile.
All-purpose flour: Substitute 1 cup of whole wheat flour or, if needed, a gluten-free blend.
Cayenne pepper: For a taste adjustment or to taste combine 2 tablespoons with the amount noted.
Brown sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for an alternative sweetness.

Pro Tips

1. Double Dredge for Extra Crunch After the initial dredging in flour, you can dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then once more into the flour mixture. This double coating creates a crunchier crust.

2. Rest After Dredging Let the flour-coated chicken rest on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a more crisp and even fry.

3. Temperature Control Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F throughout the frying process. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil doesn’t drop too low or get too hot, which can affect the coating’s crispiness and the chicken’s doneness.

4. Spice Level Adjustment The spicy butter sauce can be adjusted according to your heat preference. If you want it milder, reduce the cayenne pepper, or increase it for extra heat. Balance with additional brown sugar if needed.

5. Coleslaw Contrast Consider making your own coleslaw with a touch of vinegar or lemon juice for added brightness. This can provide a nice contrast to the richness and spiciness of the chicken.