Calling all spice enthusiasts and chicken lovers! Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will set your taste buds ablaze. Nashville Hot Honey Fried Chicken is a true Southern delicacy that combines the irresistible crunch of fried chicken with a fiery hot and sweet kick. With each bite, you'll experience a symphony of flavors—juicy and tender chicken enveloped in a fiery cayenne pepper spice blend, perfectly balanced with a drizzle of golden honey. Get ready to unleash the flavors of Nashville in your own kitchen. It's time to gather your ingredients and embark on a spicy and sweet chicken journey like no other!
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
1/4 cup honey, warmed
Hot sauce, for extra heat (optional)
Instructions:
Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be the coating mixture for the chicken.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, pressing it firmly to ensure a thick and even coating. Set the coated chicken aside on a wire rack or baking sheet.
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until it becomes golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure fully cooked chicken.
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes.
In a small bowl, mix together the warmed honey and hot sauce (if using) to create a spicy-sweet glaze.
Drizzle the honey mixture generously over the fried chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is coated with the hot and sweet goodness.
Serve your Nashville Hot Honey Fried Chicken alongside your favorite sides like creamy coleslaw, pickles, and fluffy biscuits.
Get ready to embrace the heat and sweetness of Nashville with each succulent bite of this irresistible chicken. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a flavorful meal, Nashville Hot Honey Fried Chicken is sure to steal the show and leave everyone wanting more. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite hot sauce, and let's dive into a truly memorable chicken adventure!