Name: Nashville Chicken Wings: Your Guide to the Best Hot Chicken in Town
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings, separated at the joints and tips removed (about 18-20 wings); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference); 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup reserved frying oil (from cooking the wings); 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; White bread slices; Dill pickle chips

Nashville Chicken Wings: Prepare to set your taste buds ablaze with this fiery and flavorful recipe! Are you ready to experience the heat and incredible taste of authentic Nashville hot chicken, but in a convenient, finger-licking wing form? These aren't your average wings; they're a culinary adventure, a symphony of spice and savory goodness that will leave you craving more.

Nashville hot chicken, the inspiration behind these wings, boasts a rich history rooted in the vibrant culinary scene of Nashville, Tennessee. Legend has it that the dish was born from a spicy revenge plot gone deliciously right! A scorned lover sought to punish her partner with an extra-hot chicken dish, but instead, she inadvertently created a local sensation. From humble beginnings, it has grown into a beloved Southern staple, celebrated for its bold flavors and satisfying kick.

What makes Nashville Chicken Wings so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken, coated in a fiery blend of spices that delivers an unforgettable taste experience. The initial sweetness gives way to a building heat that tingles the tongue and warms the soul. People adore this dish because it's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly versatile. Enjoy them as an appetizer, a main course, or the star of your next game day gathering. Plus, making your own Nashville Chicken Wings at home allows you to customize the spice level to your preference – from a gentle warmth to a scorching inferno!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Wings:

2 lbs chicken wings, separated at the joints and tips removed (about 18-20 wings)
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dry Dredge:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Nashville Hot Oil:

1/2 cup reserved frying oil (from cooking the wings)
2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Serving (Optional):

White bread slices
Dill pickle chips

Marinating the Chicken

Okay, let's get started! First things first, we need to marinate our chicken wings. This is a crucial step because it not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with flavor from the inside out. Trust me, you don't want to skip this!

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
Add the chicken wings to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring that all the wings are fully submerged. If needed, you can use a smaller bowl and weigh the wings down with a plate to keep them covered.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful and tender they will become. I usually aim for at least 8 hours for the best results.

Preparing the Dry Dredge

While the chicken is marinating, let's prepare the dry dredge. This is where the magic happens – this is what gives our Nashville hot chicken its signature crispy coating and fiery kick!

In a large, shallow dish (like a baking dish or a large pie plate), whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. The cornstarch helps to create an extra crispy coating, so don't leave it out!
Taste a tiny pinch of the dry dredge. This will give you an idea of the spice level. If you want it hotter, add a little more cayenne pepper. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can't take it away!

Dredging and Frying the Chicken

Now for the fun part – dredging and frying! This is where we transform our marinated chicken wings into crispy, spicy, Nashville hot goodness.

Remove the chicken wings from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. You don't need to pat them completely dry, as a little moisture will help the flour adhere.
One at a time, dredge each chicken wing in the dry dredge mixture, making sure to coat it completely on all sides. Press the flour mixture into the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
Place the dredged chicken wings on a wire rack lined with parchment paper. This will help them stay crispy while you're frying the rest of the wings.
Heat about 3-4 inches of vegetable oil or peanut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 325°F (160°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil. Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for crispy, evenly cooked chicken.
Carefully add the chicken wings to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. I usually fry about 4-5 wings at a time, depending on the size of my pot.
Fry the chicken wings for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove the fried chicken wings from the oil and place them back on the wire rack to drain any excess oil. This will help them stay crispy.
Repeat the dredging and frying process with the remaining chicken wings.

Making the Nashville Hot Oil

This is the secret ingredient that takes our chicken from just fried chicken to authentic Nashville hot chicken! The hot oil is what gives the chicken its signature fiery flavor and vibrant red color.

Carefully remove 1/2 cup of the hot frying oil from the pot and transfer it to a heatproof bowl. Be very careful when handling hot oil!
Add the paprika, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt to the hot oil. Whisk everything together until well combined. The brown sugar helps to balance the heat and adds a touch of sweetness.
Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Coating the Chicken with Hot Oil

Now for the final step – coating the fried chicken wings with the Nashville hot oil! This is where we transform our crispy fried chicken into the spicy, flavorful masterpiece that is Nashville hot chicken.

One at a time, dip each fried chicken wing into the Nashville hot oil, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. You can also use a brush to apply the oil if you prefer.
Place the coated chicken wings back on the wire rack to allow any excess oil to drip off.

Serving

Alright, you've made it! Your Nashville hot chicken wings are ready to be served. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete the experience:

Serve the Nashville hot chicken wings immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
Traditionally, Nashville hot chicken is served on slices of white bread with dill pickle chips. The bread helps to soak up the excess oil and the pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the heat.
You can also serve the wings with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, mac and cheese, or potato salad.
Be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand, as these wings can get messy!

Spice Level Adjustment

Remember, the amount of cayenne pepper in both the dry dredge and the hot oil determines the spice level of your Nashville hot chicken. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking. If you're sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. If you're a spice lover, go ahead and crank up the heat!

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken

Want to take your chicken to the next level of crispiness? Here are a few tips:

Double dredge the chicken: After the first dredge, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk marinade and then dredge it again in the dry dredge mixture. This will create an even thicker and crispier coating.
Use a wire rack: Placing the dredged and fried chicken on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, preventing it from getting soggy.
Don't overcrowd the pot: Frying the chicken in batches ensures that the oil temperature remains consistent, resulting in crispy chicken.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftover Nashville hot chicken wings (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a crispier result.

Conclusion:

This isn't just another chicken wing recipe; it's a fiery, flavorful journey straight to the heart of Nashville's culinary scene. Trust me, once you've experienced the crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive taste of these Nashville Chicken Wings, you'll understand why I'm so passionate about sharing this recipe. The unique blend of spices, the perfect balance of heat and savory, and the satisfying crunch of the perfectly fried chicken all combine to create an unforgettable eating experience. But why is this recipe a must-try? It's simple: it delivers authentic Nashville flavor right to your kitchen. You no longer need to book a flight to Tennessee to enjoy this iconic dish. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! I've broken down each step to ensure even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. The secret lies in the spice blend and the double-frying technique, which guarantees maximum crispiness and flavor penetration. And the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! While I've provided my go-to spice blend, feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level. Want to kick it up a notch? Add a pinch of ghost pepper powder (but be warned, it's seriously hot!). For a milder version, reduce the cayenne and add a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky sweetness. Beyond the spice level, there are endless serving possibilities. Classic accompaniments like dill pickles and white bread are a must for the full Nashville experience. But don't stop there! These wings are fantastic with creamy coleslaw, crispy french fries, or even a simple side salad. For a truly indulgent meal, serve them alongside mac and cheese or mashed potatoes. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

Nashville Chicken Wing Platter: Arrange the wings on a platter with dill pickle chips, white bread slices, and a side of coleslaw.
Nashville Chicken Wing Sandwiches: Place a few wings on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
Nashville Chicken Wing Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with sliced wings, crumbled blue cheese, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.

Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite way to enjoy these incredible wings. I've even tried dipping them in honey for a sweet and spicy twist! I truly believe that this Nashville Chicken Wings recipe will become a staple in your household. It's perfect for game day, parties, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The flavor is so bold and satisfying that it's guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your fryer, and get ready to experience the taste of Nashville! I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications to the recipe? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can't wait to see your creations and hear how much you enjoyed these amazing wings. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I'll do my best to help. Enjoy your journey into the world of Nashville hot chicken!