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When it comes to Southern cuisine, few dishes have garnered as much admiration and fascination as Nashville Hot Chicken. With its fiery heat, crunchy texture, and rich flavors, this iconic dish has evolved from a local delicacy to a beloved staple across the United States. Originating from the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, the dish tells a story of Southern culinary tradition, imbued with a sense of hospitality and a penchant for bold flavors.

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

½ cup vegetable oil (used from frying)

2 tablespoons cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

A dash of hot sauce (optional for extra heat)

For Serving:

Pickles

Sliced white bread

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

    Prepare the Coating: In a large dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.

      Heat the Oil: In a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

        Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken tenders from the buttermilk mixture and let excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure a good coating. Shake off excess flour.

          Fry the Tenders: Carefully place the breaded tenders in the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Transfer to a wire rack to drain.

            Make the Nashville Hot Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the hot frying oil (½ cup) with cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until combined.

              Coat the Chicken: Place the fried chicken tenders in a large bowl and pour the Nashville hot sauce over them. Toss to coat the tenders evenly in the sauce.

                Serve: On a slice of white bread, stack 2-3 chicken tenders, top with pickles, and add another slice of bread on top. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy goodness!

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 2 hours (including marination) | Servings: 4