Growing up in the South, the aroma of crispy, spicy Nashville hot chicken was a familiar scent that could transport me back to my grandma’s kitchen in an instant. The sizzle of the oil, the golden-brown coating, and that unmistakable kick of heat – it’s a sensory experience that’s become a beloved part of my culinary heritage. That’s why this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe has become my go-to for recreating those mouthwatering flavors at home.

Why This Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

There’s something magical that happens when you combine the perfect balance of spices, a crispy coating, and juicy, tender chicken. This recipe has truly mastered that art, delivering a Nashville hot chicken experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The secret lies in the marinade and the layering of flavors – the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, while the blend of brown sugar, paprika, and cayenne pepper creates a signature spicy-sweet profile that’s simply irresistible.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe to life, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders: The perfect canvas for the bold flavors. Look for fresh, high-quality tenders that will soak up all the delicious seasonings.
  • 1 cup buttermilk: This magical ingredient tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating adhere beautifully.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the crispy, golden-brown coating.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adding a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
  • 1 tablespoon paprika: Providing that quintessential Nashville hot chicken flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Bringing the heat that makes this dish truly authentic.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For an aromatic, savory undertone.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adding depth and complexity to the seasoning blend.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • Vegetable oil for frying: Ensuring the chicken tenders achieve that perfect crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Amping up the spicy kick.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Complementing the heat with a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Lending that iconic red hue.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For an extra punch of heat.

Step-by-Step Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Instructions

Preparing Your Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

With a total time of just 30 minutes – 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking – this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and craveable meal. You’ll need a few basic kitchen essentials, like a large bowl, a shallow dish, a heavy-bottomed pan for frying, and a paper towel-lined plate for draining.

1- Start by placing the chicken tenders in a large bowl and pouring in the buttermilk. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the tenders are fully submerged. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to tenderize and infuse with flavor.

2- In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This will be your breading mixture.

3- Once the chicken has finished marinating, remove the tenders from the buttermilk one by one, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.

4- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F. Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden-brown and the chicken is cooked through.

5- Transfer the fried Nashville hot chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Drizzle this spicy-sweet glaze over the hot chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is well coated.

6- Serve your piping hot Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or sliced green onions if desired. The combination of the crispy coating, juicy chicken, and bold, flavorful glaze is sure to have your guests reaching for seconds.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
  • Use a deep-fry or candy thermometer to maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F for the perfect crispy coating.
  • Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the oil temperature to drop.
  • Let the fried chicken tenders drain on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute or two before tossing them in the spicy glaze.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the glaze to your desired level of heat – start with a little and add more if you like it extra spicy.

Serving and Storing Your Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Perfect Pairings for Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

This Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe, which serves 4 people, pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them alongside creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, or fluffy buttermilk biscuits to soak up all the delicious juices. For a refreshing contrast, a cool and crisp dill pickle spear or a tall glass of iced sweet tea would be the perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re enjoying them as a weeknight dinner or serving them at a backyard barbecue, these tenders are sure to be the star of the show.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the tenders in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the coating is crisp again.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the breaded chicken tenders in advance and store them in the freezer. Place the uncooked, breaded tenders on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply fry the frozen tenders directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Creative Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Variations

While this classic Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:

  • Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich: Serve the fried tenders on a soft brioche bun with pickle chips and a drizzle of the spicy glaze.
  • Nashville Hot Chicken Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with the fried tenders, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a tangy ranch dressing.
  • Nashville Hot Chicken Quesadillas: Stuff tortillas with the hot chicken, shredded cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers.
  • Nashville Hot Chicken Nuggets: Cut the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces before breading and frying.

Making Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Diet-Friendly

For those looking to make this recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few easy substitutions:

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular all-purpose flour.
  • Low-Carb: Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or pork rinds to create a keto-friendly breading.
  • Vegan: Replace the chicken tenders with plant-based “chicken” tenders or extra-firm tofu.
  • Air-Fried: Skip the oil frying and use an air fryer to achieve a crispy coating with fewer calories.

No matter which variation or dietary adaptation you choose, this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for that iconic spicy-sweet flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: Absolutely! While chicken tenders are the traditional cut for Nashville hot chicken, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness before marinating and breading.

Q: How can I adjust the heat level of the spicy glaze?
A: The amount of cayenne pepper in the glaze can be adjusted to suit your personal preference. Start with the 1/2 teaspoon called for in the recipe, then taste and add more cayenne in 1/4 teaspoon increments until you reach your desired level of heat.

Q: Can I make the Nashville hot chicken tenders ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken tenders in advance and freeze them for future use. Simply bread the tenders as directed, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe is designed to serve 4 people. The quantities of ingredients listed should provide enough for 4 generous servings.

Q: Why are my chicken tenders not getting crispy?
A: There are a few common reasons why the coating may not get as crispy as desired. Make sure the oil is at the proper temperature (350-375°F), avoid overcrowding the pan, and ensure the chicken is patted dry before breading. Additionally, letting the fried tenders drain on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute or two before tossing in the glaze can help maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

With its perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and juicy tenderness, this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe is truly a Southern culinary masterpiece. The secret lies in the carefully crafted blend of seasonings, the buttermilk marinade, and the technique of frying to golden-brown perfection. Whether you’re craving a taste of authentic Nashville hot chicken or simply looking for a new, flavor-packed dish to add to your repertoire, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those chicken tenders, fire up the oil, and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering, finger-lickin’ good time!