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Nashville Spicy Fried Chicken

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Crispy, juicy fried chicken coated in a bold and spicy Nashville-style glaze, delivering the perfect balance of heat and flavor. A Southern classic that’s rich, crunchy, and irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup butter or frying oil (for glaze)
  • 1–2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 175°C (350°F).
  5. Fry chicken for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Transfer chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. In a small bowl, mix melted butter or hot frying oil with cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and a pinch of paprika.
  8. Brush or spoon the spicy glaze over the hot fried chicken.
  9. Serve immediately with bread and pickles if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.
  • Use boneless chicken for quicker cooking.
  • Add honey to the glaze for a sweet-spicy variation.
  • Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/nashville-spicy-fried-chicken/