Irresistible Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

I can still remember the first time I tried Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders. It was during a trip to the Music City a few years back, and my friend had been raving about this iconic local dish for weeks. When we finally made our way to the hole-in-the-wall joint she had discovered, I have to admit I was a bit skeptical. But from the moment I sank my teeth into that crispy, spicy chicken, I was hooked. The perfect balance of heat, crunch, and juicy tenderness had me reaching for another piece before I’d even finished the first. That day, Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders became my new go-to comfort food, and I’ve been dreaming of recreating that unforgettable flavor at home ever since.

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

The Secret Behind Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

What makes this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe so special is the way it captures the true essence of the dish – that perfect harmony of crispy, crunchy, spicy, and juicy. The secret lies in the two-step breading process, which ensures the chicken develops an incredibly crisp exterior without drying out the meat. First, the tenderloins are submerged in a buttermilk marinade infused with plenty of hot sauce. This not only tenderizes the chicken, but also infuses it with that signature Nashville heat.

Then, the tenders are dredged in a seasoned flour mixture that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. When these coated chicken pieces hit the hot oil, the sugars in the paprika and the moisture from the buttermilk create a beautifully burnished, crunchy crust. The end result is a piece of chicken that’s bursting with bold, spicy flavor on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender within. It’s the perfect Nashville-style fried chicken, right at your fingertips.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins – The tenderloins are the perfect cut for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay wonderfully juicy.
• 1 cup buttermilk – The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy richness that balances the heat.
• 1/2 cup hot sauce – This is what gives the Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders their signature spicy kick. Use your favorite brand.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The flour creates the light, crispy breading that makes these tenders so addictive.
• 1 tablespoon paprika – Paprika not only adds color, but also contributes to the crust’s caramelized flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder enhances the savory, umami notes in the breading.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder further develops the savory, aromatic profile of the coating.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper – This is the star ingredient that provides the signature Nashville heat.
• 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
• Vegetable oil for frying – You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chicken tenders while frying.

Step-by-Step Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Instructions

Preparing Your Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, this Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe comes together in just 30 minutes total. All you’ll need is a large bowl, a shallow dish or plate, and a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for frying.

1- Begin by placing the chicken tenderloins in a large bowl. Pour in the buttermilk and hot sauce, making sure the tenders are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours. This crucial marinade step will infuse the meat with moisture and spicy flavor.

2- While the chicken is marinating, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Use a fork to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.

3- When you’re ready to fry, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture one piece at a time, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere.

4- In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Carefully lower the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

5- Transfer the fried Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. While still hot, you can sprinkle them with an additional pinch of cayenne pepper for even more heat.

6- Serve the piping hot Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders immediately, alongside your favorite dipping sauces, pickles, and sides. Enjoy this finger-lickin’ good dish with friends and family for the ultimate Southern-inspired feast.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade – This is the key to juicy, tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
2. Adjust the heat level to your liking – Start with 1/2 cup of hot sauce and add more if you want an extra spicy kick.
3. Use a deep-fry or candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature – Maintaining that 350°F heat is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy crust.
4. Fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding – This will ensure even cooking and prevent the oil temperature from dropping too low.
5. Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of a paper towel – This will keep the crust crisp and prevent sogginess.
6. Serve the Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders immediately for maximum crispness and flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Perfect Pairings for Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

This recipe makes 4 servings of Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders, which are perfect for sharing as an appetizer or main dish. For the ultimate Southern-inspired feast, serve them alongside classic sides like creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, or fluffy buttermilk biscuits. Cool, refreshing beverages like sweet iced tea or lemonade also make an excellent pairing to balance the heat.

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, place the tenders on a baking sheet in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy.

For longer-term storage, the uncooked breaded chicken tenders can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight bag or container. When ready to fry, there’s no need to thaw – just carefully lower the frozen tenders into the hot oil and cook for an extra 1-2 minutes per side.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Creative Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Variations

While the classic Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are an absolute delight, there are endless ways to put a creative spin on this beloved dish:

• Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich – Serve the fried tenders on soft brioche buns with pickles and spicy mayo for an epic sandwich.
• Nashville Hot Chicken Salad – Top a fresh salad with the crispy chicken, along with diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Nashville Hot Chicken Tacos – Stuff warm tortillas with the fried tenders, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of Nashville-style sauce.
• Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders – For a lighter take, coat the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture and bake at 400°F until cooked through.

Making Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Diet-Friendly

To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can try these simple swaps:

• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
• Low-carb: Swap the flour for almond flour or pork rinds for a keto-friendly breading.
• Vegan: Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu or seitan, and use a plant-based buttermilk alternative.
• Air-fried: Instead of frying in oil, coat the tenders and air-fry them at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

No matter which variations or dietary adjustments you choose, these Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings for bold, spicy fried chicken goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: While chicken tenders are the traditional cut for Nashville Hot Chicken, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly.

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture?
A: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Q: Can I make these Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prep the breaded, uncooked chicken tenders in advance and freeze them for up to 2 months. Just fry them straight from frozen when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for sharing as an appetizer or main dish.

Q: My chicken isn’t getting crispy enough – what am I doing wrong?
A: Make sure your oil is maintained at the proper 350°F temperature and that you’re not overcrowding the pan when frying. Also, let the tenders rest on a wire rack after cooking to keep the crust as crisp as possible.

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Conclusion

These Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food – crispy, juicy, and bursting with signature spicy flavor. The two-step breading process, coupled with the tangy buttermilk marinade, ensures each tender is perfectly seasoned from the inside out. Whether you’re serving them as a game day snack, a family-style dinner, or a unique appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a new household favorite. So grab your cast-iron skillet, fire up the oil, and get ready to experience the mouthwatering magic of Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders. I can’t wait to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoy this bold, finger-lickin’ dish!