Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsDave's Hot ChickenDave's Hot Chicken Recipe

Dave's Hot Chicken Recipe

Inspired by Dave's Hot Chicken
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Spicy fried chicken sandwich served on a bun.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

For the Chicken Marinade

For the Breading

For Frying

For Assembling the Sandwich

Method

Marinating the Chicken

  1. 1

    Prepare the Marinade

    In a large bowl, combine hot sauce, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Marinate the Chicken

    Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Breading

  1. 3

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.

Frying the Chicken

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large pot or deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.

  2. 5

    Bread the Chicken

    Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is well-coated.

  3. 6

    Fry the Chicken

    Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  4. 7

    Drain the Chicken

    Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assembling the Sandwich

  1. 8

    Prepare the Buns

    Toast the burger buns lightly on a skillet or in the oven until golden brown.

  2. 9

    Assemble the Sandwich

    Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top with pickles and coleslaw if desired. Cover with the top half of the bun.

More from Dave's Hot Chicken