Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

When I first tasted Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders, I was immediately transported to the lively streets of Nashville, where the aroma of spicy fried chicken fills the air. It was a warm summer evening, and I was sitting on a patio with friends, eagerly awaiting our food. As the vibrant colors of the sun began to set, the crispy tenders were served, glistening with a fiery red sauce that beckoned me to dive in. I took my first bite, and the explosion of spice was nothing short of euphoric; it was hot, but so incredibly addictive that I couldn’t stop at just one. This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience that brings people together, igniting conversations and laughter. The rich history and flavor of Nashville’s culinary scene are encapsulated in these tenders, making them a must-try for anyone craving something extraordinarily delicious.

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders Ingredients

The magic of Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders lies in the simple yet powerful ingredients that come together to create a flavor explosion. Each one plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall taste and texture of the dish.

• Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
• 12 chicken tenders or 2 large chicken breasts cut into pieces: The star of the dish, ensuring juicy and tender bites.
• 1 tablespoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons black pepper: Introduces a mild heat and complexity.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used for dredging the chicken to create a crispy coating.
• 1 egg: Binds the flour mixture and helps it adhere to the chicken.
• 1/3 cup flour: Part of the dredging process for added crunch.
• 4 ounces water: Helps to create the batter consistency.
• 2 cups flour: A key component in the seasoning mix to create the famous crispy coating.
• 3 tablespoons poultry seasoning: Adds aromatic flavors that elevate the dish.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: For that extra garlicky punch.
• 1 tablespoon onion powder: Balances the garlic flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances the spice blend.
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard: Adds a tangy flavor note to the mix.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: For color and a subtle smoky flavor.
• 2 tablespoons cayenne: The star ingredient for the signature heat!
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the spice with sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Additional seasoning to taste.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Ensures robust flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Final seasoning for taste.
• 1 cup vegetable oil saved hot from frying: Used to create the spicy sauce that coats the tenders.

How to Assemble Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Making Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders is an exciting journey that involves layering flavors and textures. Let’s go through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish.

1. Start by placing the chicken tenders on a plate and generously season them with the spices listed in the seasoning rub. Make sure to cover the chicken completely and then cover the plate with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors infuse and the spices penetrate the meat.

2. In a shallow dish, pour in 1/2 cup of flour. This will be the first dip for the chicken tenders, helping the other coatings stick. Set it aside.

3. Prepare a second shallow dish by whisking together 1 egg, 1/3 cup of flour, and 4 ounces of water. This mixture will create a batter that adds additional crunch.

4. In a third shallow dish, combine 2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of poultry seasoning, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons black pepper, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

5. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want about 1 to 2 inches of oil for frying. It should be hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles when added.

6. Remove the chicken tenders from the refrigerator. Dredge each tender in the first dish with flour, ensuring all sides are coated. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

7. Carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil. Fry for about 5 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even frying. Drain on paper towels and repeat the process if you’re frying in batches.

8. Once all the tenders are fried, increase the oil temperature to high heat. Allow it to heat for approximately 5 minutes.

9. Return the fried chicken to the hot oil and fry again for an additional 2 minutes. This ensures they are super crispy. Again, flip halfway through to avoid uneven cooking. Ensure each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees before removing them from the oil.

10. In a separate bowl, mix all the spices together, and then pour one cup of the hot oil used for frying into this spice blend. This will create a spicy oil that will coat the tenders beautifully.

11. Finally, coat each fried chicken piece in the spicy sauce, ensuring they are well-covered. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Recipe Notes about Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Here are some tips for making the best Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: If you have extra tenders, you can freeze them. Ensure they are completely cooled and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the tenders in an oven at 375 degrees until warmed through, which helps maintain their crispiness.
• Pairing: These tenders are fantastic when paired with a cool ranch dip or served alongside crispy fries or a fresh salad.
• Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure and gradually add more.

Accompaniments for Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Serving Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders is all about enhancing the experience. Here’s how to make your meal even more delightful:

• Classic Sides: Pair your tenders with coleslaw for a refreshing crunch and creamy contrast to the heat.
• Spicy Pickles: Add a side of spicy pickles for an extra kick and a tangy balance to the rich flavors.
• Fries or Wedges: Golden fries or potato wedges make for the perfect comfort food sidekick.
• Sandwich Style: Try serving the tenders in a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a delicious sandwich.
• Occasional Serving: These tenders are perfect for casual get-togethers, game days, or even as a hearty lunch!
• Seasonal Flavors: In the summer, add fresh fruit salads or corn on the cob to brighten the plate.

FAQ

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are a mouthwatering dish that combines bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. The unique blend of spices and cooking techniques creates a memorable meal any time of the year. I encourage you to try making these tenders at home; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more!

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

The ultimate comfort food, Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are crispy, spicy, and utterly irresistible. These tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering. With their bold flavors and crunchy texture, they’ll satisfy your cravings tonight!

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Prep Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 23 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Vegetable oil for frying
• 12 pieces Chicken tenders or 2 large chicken breasts cut into 6 pieces each
• 1 tbsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Garlic powder
• 2 tsp Onion powder
• 2 tsp Black pepper
• 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 piece Egg
• 1/3 cup Flour
• 4 oz Water
• 2 cups Flour
• 3 tbsp Poultry seasoning
• 1 tbsp Garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Ground black pepper
• 1 tsp Dry mustard
• 1/2 tsp Paprika
• 2 tbsp Cayenne
• 1 tbsp Brown sugar
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Vegetable oil saved hot from frying

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Start by placing the chicken tenders on a plate and generously season them with the spices listed in the seasoning rub. Make sure to cover the chicken completely and then cover the plate with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors infuse.
2. In a shallow dish, pour in 1/2 cup of flour. This will be the first dip for the chicken tenders, helping the other coatings stick. Set it aside.
3. Prepare a second shallow dish by whisking together 1 egg, 1/3 cup of flour, and 4 ounces of water. This mixture will create a batter that adds additional crunch.
4. In a third shallow dish, combine 2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of poultry seasoning, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons black pepper, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want about 1 to 2 inches of oil for frying. It should be hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles when added.
6. Remove the chicken tenders from the refrigerator. Dredge each tender in the first dish with flour, ensuring all sides are coated. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the seasoned flour.
7. Carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil. Fry for about 5 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even frying.
8. Once all the tenders are fried, increase the oil temperature to high heat. Allow it to heat for approximately 5 minutes.
9. Return the fried chicken to the hot oil and fry again for an additional 2 minutes. Again, flip halfway through for even cooking.
10. In a separate bowl, mix all the spices together, and then pour one cup of the hot oil used for frying into this spice blend. This will create a spicy oil.
11. Finally, coat each fried chicken piece in the spicy sauce, ensuring they are well-covered. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!