Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders bring a spicy twist to a classic favorite. Once you give them a try, they’ll likely become a staple in your kitchen.
These sliders feature juicy, crispy fried chicken sandwiched in soft slider buns. They are perfectly balanced with crunchy coleslaw and tangy pickles. You can enjoy them fresh for a perfectly crisp bite or freeze them for later, making them versatile for any occasion.
Perhaps, like me, you’ve spent weekends trying out different chicken slider recipes, searching for the right level of heat and flavor. After testing various methods, these sliders stand out because they not only offer the fiery flavor of Nashville hot chicken but also an easy assembly with basic ingredients.
Adding your choice of toppings like homemade sauce, lettuce, or unique pickles can elevate the taste further.
There’s something satisfying about crafting these sliders from scratch. The combination of spicy chicken with the softness of a Hawaiian roll or your favorite bun creates an irresistible mix of textures. Whether you’re planning a casual gathering or just want a delicious meal for yourself, these Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders are sure to impress.
Why You Will Love The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders
You’ll find the perfect balance of spicy and crispy in these Nashville hot chicken sliders. If you love the original Nashville hot chicken from places like Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, these sliders will definitely be a hit.
The sliders are small but packed with flavor. They combine the classic taste of Nashville hot chicken with soft, fresh buns. Crispy fried chicken adds a satisfying crunch, while the spice gives each bite a memorable kick.
These little sandwiches make ideal snacks for gatherings or parties. You can prepare them in batches, and they are easy to serve. Everyone can grab one or two, making them perfect for sharing without any fuss.
Nashville hot chicken sliders are versatile. You can pair them with your favorite sides or eat them on their own. Some love them with a side of coleslaw or pickles. Others might simply enjoy them with a light salad.
If you enjoy trying new recipes, these hot chicken sliders are a fun cooking project. They let you explore the flavors of Nashville right in your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for the first time or perfecting your recipe, they’re sure to become a favorite in no time.
How To Make The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders
Crafting the perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders involves a mix of savory spices and precise cooking techniques. You will need to carefully prepare each aspect, from gathering the right ingredients to ensuring the chicken is fried to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
To make your sliders tasty and spicy, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken.
- Hot sauce: Adds a flavorful kick.
- All-purpose flour and cornstarch: For a crispy coating.
- Spices: Salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper for depth.
- Brown sugar and honey: Balance the heat with sweetness.
- Vegetable oil or canola oil: For frying.
- Slider buns or Hawaiian rolls: Serve as a delicious base.
Instruments
Cooking requires the right tools to achieve perfection:
- Mixing bowls: For marinades and coatings.
- Deep fryer or heavy skillet: For frying the chicken evenly.
- Wire rack and baking sheet: Drains excess oil without making the chicken soggy.
- Kitchen thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to the correct temperature.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken safely.
- Spoon or spatula: Assists in mixing ingredients smoothly.
Step By Step Instruction
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken thighs in a bowl with buttermilk and hot sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper in another bowl.
- Frying the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, coat well, and fry until crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes.
- Make the Hot Sauce: Melt butter in a pan and mix with hot sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Brush this hot chicken seasoning on the fried chicken.
- Assembly: Toast your slider buns, place the fried chicken on the buns, and drizzle with more hot sauce if desired.
Serve and enjoy your homemade Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders, full of flavor and kick!
Tips & Tricks
When making Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders, use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh chicken ensures juiciness, while high-quality spices give that authentic spicy kick.
Prep is key, so have everything ready before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother. Set up your spices, flour, and wet mix in separate bowls for easy coating.
For perfectly fried chicken, heat your oil to 350°F. Maintain this temperature to achieve that golden brown crust. Use a thermometer to keep track.
Want your chicken extra crispy? Double-dip the chicken. Coat it, let it rest for a minute, and then coat it again before frying.
Try warming your buns slightly before serving. A warm bun complements the crispy chicken perfectly, making each bite delightful.
If you’re new to making sliders, check out a recipe video. Visual steps can improve your preparation and give you confidence in the kitchen.
Ensure that you don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Too much in the pan lowers the oil temperature, affecting the crispiness. Fry in small batches for the best results.
You can customize the spice level to suit your taste. Add less cayenne if you prefer a milder flavor or more if you love it hot and spicy.
Ingredient Substitute
Finding the right substitutes for Nashville hot chicken sliders can be a game-changer, especially if you’re missing ingredients or have dietary preferences.
For mayo, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It’s creamy and adds a tangy flavor. You won’t miss the mayo at all!
If you’re looking for a bread alternative, try using buttermilk biscuits instead of traditional slider buns. They add a buttery and flaky texture.
Switching to ground chicken can create a lighter, yet equally delicious, version of sliders. It’s juicy and easier to cook for smaller portions.
When it comes to cheese, consider using pepper jack for an extra kick of heat. It’s melty and pairs well with the spicy chicken.
Here’s a quick look at possible substitutions:
| Original Ingredient | Substitute Option |
|---|---|
| Mayo | Greek yogurt |
| Slider buns | Buttermilk biscuits |
| Chicken breast | Ground chicken |
| Regular cheese | Pepper jack |
These swaps ensure that your sliders are still packed with flavor, even if you’re adjusting for allergies or preferences. Feel free to experiment and see what works best for you!
What To Serve With The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders
When you’re serving Nashville hot chicken sliders, picking the right sides can take your meal to the next level.
French fries are a classic choice. They add a crispy and comforting touch that pairs well with the heat of the sliders. You can bake or fry them and season with salt or spices for extra flavor.
Coleslaw is another great option. Its cool and crunchy texture balances the spicy chicken. The tangy dressing brings a fresh element to the meal, making each bite refreshing.
Pickles are a must-have. Their briny and tangy flavors perfectly complement the spicy sliders. You can use pickle slices as a topping or serve pickle chips on the side for an extra crunch.
A garden salad is also a good idea if you want something light. Fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers create a crisp and vibrant side dish. Toss the salad with a zesty dressing to enhance the taste.
For a unique twist, try sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the spicy chicken, adding a savory-sweet balance. They’re easy to prepare and make for a satisfying side.
These side dishes help create a well-rounded and delicious meal with your Nashville hot chicken sliders. Mix and match to find your perfect combination!
Nutrition Fact In List Form
When you’re thinking about trying some Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders, you might want to know what you’re eating. Here’s a clear breakdown of nutrition facts to keep you informed:
- Calories: Two sliders contain about 260 calories. That’s a moderate amount for a tasty treat.
- Protein: Expect to get around 18-21% of your daily value. This amounts to roughly 36 grams, particularly in O’Charley’s version.
- Fats: Each serving has about 9 to 55 grams of fat. This varies significantly by source, so be sure to check.
- Carbohydrates: These sliders are quite rich in carbs, making up about 51% of the calorie content.
- Sugars: Some versions contain up to 24 grams of sugars. This is something to keep an eye out for if you’re watching sugar intake.
- Dietary Fiber: You’ll find about 4 grams, which is a helpful addition to your diet.
Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Deep fryer or heavy skillet
- Wire rack and baking sheet
- Kitchen thermometer
- Tongs
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Buttermilk
- Hot sauce
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying
- Slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken thighs, buttermilk, and hot sauce. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Coating: Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil to 350°F in a skillet, dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, and fry for 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Make the Hot Sauce: Melt butter, then mix with hot sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Brush onto the fried chicken.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast slider buns, place the fried chicken on the buns, and drizzle with more hot sauce if desired. Serve.
Notes
- Calories: 130 to 260 per slider (varies by size and ingredients)
- Protein: 18-21% of daily value (around 36g)
- Fats: 9g to 55g (varies by recipe)
- Carbohydrates: 51% of total calories
- Sugars: Up to 24g (depending on hot sauce and honey)
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
