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Nashville Hot Chicken Strips

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Introduction

If you love bold flavors and a fiery kick, Nashville Hot Chicken Strips are a must-try. Originating from Nashville, Tennessee, this dish is renowned for its spicy, crispy coating and juicy chicken. Perfect for a family dinner, game day, or a flavorful lunch, Nashville Hot Chicken Strips offer a satisfying crunch and a spicy punch that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Strips:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Hot Chicken Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

this recipe
  1. Marinate the Chicken:
  • Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
  1. Prepare the Dredge:
  • In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  1. Dredge the Chicken:
  • Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  1. Heat the Oil:
  • In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  1. Fry the Chicken:
  • Fry the chicken tenders in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  1. Prepare the Hot Chicken Sauce:
  • In a bowl, whisk together cayenne pepper, hot sauce, melted butter, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce levels to your desired spice level.
  1. Coat the Chicken:
  • Once the chicken strips are done frying, brush or toss them in the hot chicken sauce until evenly coated.
  1. Serve:
  • Serve the Nashville Hot Chicken Strips hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, pickles, or biscuits. Enjoy the spicy, crispy goodness!

Tips for Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Strips

  • Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce. You can always add more to taste.
  • Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken tenders in buttermilk and then dredge in the flour mixture a second time before frying.
  • Keep It Hot: Serve the chicken strips immediately after coating with the hot sauce to ensure they stay crispy and flavorful.

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Chicken Strips are a delicious way to bring the heat to your dining table. With their crispy exterior and spicy sauce, they offer a memorable eating experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something with a kick, these chicken strips are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Nashville’s culinary delight!

Serving and Storage Tips for Nashville Hot Chicken Strips

Serving Tips

  1. Garnish Wisely:
  • Enhance the presentation by garnishing your Nashville Hot Chicken Strips with sliced pickles, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of extra cayenne pepper for added heat.
  1. Pair with Sides:
  • Serve your chicken strips with classic Southern sides like creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
  1. Dipping Sauces:
  • Offer a range of dipping sauces to complement the spicy chicken. Options like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a cooling yogurt dip can balance out the heat.
  1. Temperature Matters:
  • Enjoy the chicken strips immediately after coating them in hot sauce for the best texture and flavor. They’re at their crispiest and most flavorful right out of the fryer.

Storage Tips

  1. Cooling:
  • Allow the chicken strips to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation from making the coating soggy.
  1. Refrigeration:
  • Store leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will keep them fresh and maintain their flavor.
  1. Freezing:
  • For longer storage, freeze the chicken strips. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  1. Reheating:
  • To reheat refrigerated or frozen chicken strips, use an oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen strips, bake from frozen, increasing the time as needed.
  1. Avoid Microwaving:
  • Avoid reheating the chicken strips in the microwave, as it can make them soggy. The oven or toaster oven is the best option for retaining the crispy texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Nashville Hot Chicken Strips at their best, whether you’re savoring them fresh or reheating leftovers.

1. How can I adjust the spice level of Nashville Hot Chicken Strips?

To adjust the spice level, you can modify the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce in the hot chicken sauce. For a milder version, use less cayenne pepper and hot sauce. You can also add a bit of honey or brown sugar to the sauce to balance out the heat. Always taste and adjust to your preference before coating the chicken strips.

2. Can I make Nashville Hot Chicken Strips ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Nashville Hot Chicken Strips in advance. Cook and coat the chicken strips as directed, then let them cool completely before storing. Refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If you want to prepare them even earlier, you can freeze the cooked strips. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness.

3. What is the best way to reheat leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Strips?

The best way to reheat leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Strips is in an oven or toaster oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the strips for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. For frozen strips, bake them from frozen, adjusting the time as needed. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.

4. Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other parts of the chicken, such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, if you prefer. Simply cut the chicken into strips and follow the same marinating, dredging, and frying steps. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces to ensure they are fully cooked.

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