Jun 06 2026
RestaurantsPapa Chops EateryNashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Inspired by Papa Chops Eatery
Time2h
Serves4

Our juicy fried chicken dipped in Nashville hot sauce.

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Ingredients

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Chicken Marinade

Hot Sauce

Method

Chicken Marinade Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare Marinade

    In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until well mixed.

  2. 2

    Marinate Chicken

    Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Breading Preparation

  1. 3

    Prepare Breading

    In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.

  2. 4

    Bread Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the marinade. Allow excess marinade to drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack and let sit for 15 minutes.

Frying

  1. 5

    Heat Oil

    In a large, deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  2. 6

    Fry Chicken

    Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

  3. 7

    Drain Chicken

    Once cooked, remove the chicken and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Hot Sauce Preparation

  1. 8

    Make Hot Sauce

    In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine hot sauce, brown sugar, butter, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.

  2. 9

    Coat Chicken with Sauce

    Once the hot sauce is ready, brush it generously over the fried chicken.

Serving

  1. 10

    Serve

    Serve the Nashville hot chicken hot, with pickles and white bread on the side, if desired.

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