Nashville Hot Chicken Slider

These Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders Will Blow Your Mind

Ever bitten into something so good, so ridiculously flavorful, it makes you want to shout from the rooftops? That’s the kind of life changing magic we’re talking about with Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders.

You might think you know hot chicken, but trust us, these little guys are a whole different ball game, a flavor adventure.

If you have had your fill of bland, boring food that leaves you wanting more.

Or if you’re tired of recipes that promise the moon but deliver a dud, then you need to try these.

We’re going to show you how to make sliders that are crispy, juicy, and bursting with that signature Nashville heat.

Plus, we’re adding a little something special to make them even better.

What Makes Nashville Hot Chicken So Special?

perfectly cooked Nashville Hot Chicken Slider

Nashville Hot Chicken isn’t just chicken with some chili powder sprinkled on top, man.

Its a legend.

It’s a Southern culinary experience that’s all about bold flavors.

Think crispy, fried chicken with a serious kick.

It all starts with a really good piece of fried chicken, but the real secret is in the sauce.

A glorious, fiery blend of spices that’ll set your taste buds tingling.

What are Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders?

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders arranged on a rustic wooden cutting board

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders take that incredible flavor.

They then jam it into a small, easy-to-eat package.

Instead of a big piece of chicken, we’re talking slider-sized portions.

You get all that amazing flavor without having to commit to a giant hunk of meat.

These little guys are great for easy super bowl party food, game day, or just when you want a fun and tasty meal. Trust me, the taste makes them better than the full sized sandwiches.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders

ingredients needed for Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders

Let’s break down what goes into these bad boys. We’ll see what makes ’em tick. Every ingredient here plays a role in building that perfect bite.

For the Chicken:

boneless chicken pieces marinating in a creamy buttermilk mixture
  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: We use thighs because they’re juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Cutting them into smaller pieces ensures they cook quickly and evenly, each bite a tender morsel.
  • Buttermilk: This is a must. Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken. It also gives a great tangy flavor, its acidity making the meat melt in your mouth.
  • Dill Pickle Juice: Sounds weird, right? It adds a little extra tang and helps the buttermilk work its magic. Think of it like a secret weapon.
  • Hot Sauce: Use your favorite brand, whatever brings the heat you love. This gets added to the marinade for flavor that soaks right into the chicken.
  • Egg: One large egg goes into that marinade, helping the breading stick to the chicken.
  • All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of our breading. The coating that gives us that crispy exterior, a simple ingredient with a big job.
  • Cornstarch: Makes the chicken extra crispy, a little trick for a better crunch.
  • Smoked Paprika: This is where our secret twist comes in. It gives the chicken a smoky flavor that’s really unique. It’s a game changer, elevating the taste profile.
  • Cayenne Pepper: This is your main source of heat. Adjust the amount to control the spice level and make it your own.
  • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add savory depth to the breading. Just a hint of garlicky, oniony goodness.
  • Brown Sugar: A little sweetness balances out the heat. It helps create a more rounded flavor profile.
  • Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning essentials, always needed.

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

Nashville Hot Sauce
  • Unsalted Butter: This is the base of our hot sauce, adding richness.
  • Cayenne Pepper: More heat, because we can never have enough.
  • Smoked Paprika: Again with the smoky goodness.
  • Brown Sugar: Balances the spice and adds a touch of sweetness.
  • Garlic Powder: A little more savory flavor for our sauce.
  • Salt: Because every sauce needs a pinch of salt to make the flavors pop.
  • Hot Frying Oil: We take some of the oil we fried the chicken in and mix it into the sauce, adding even more flavor.

For Serving:

  • Slider Buns: Soft, small buns are perfect for holding our spicy chicken.
  • Dill Pickle Chips: These add a cool, crunchy contrast to the heat.
  • Coleslaw: A classic pairing with hot chicken. It adds sweetness and a creamy texture.
  • Spicy Mayo: If you like to get crazy, this brings even more heat and a creamy element.

Gather Your Tools: Equipment for Slider Success

You don’t need a bunch of fancy gadgets to make these sliders.

Just a few basic kitchen tools will get the job done.

You need a big bowl for marinating the chicken.

A shallow dish for the breading mixture.

Grab your trusty cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed skillet for frying.

A baking sheet if you decide to bake the chicken.

Make sure you have a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

A small saucepan will do for making the hot sauce.

And, of course, some tongs for handling that hot chicken.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Delicious Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders

Alright, let’s get cooking! I am going to walk you through each step. This ensures your sliders turn out perfect.

Marinate that Chicken

Whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, hot sauce, and an egg in a big bowl. Throw in the chicken pieces. Make sure they’re all covered in that yummy marinade. Cover the bowl and stick it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. You can even leave it overnight if you want to get ahead.

Get Breading

In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Chicken

Take the chicken out of the marinade. Let any extra liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Press it on there real good so it sticks.

Fry Time

Heat about an inch of oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. You want it around 350°F. Carefully put the chicken in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side. You are looking for golden brown and crispy. Make sure the chicken is cooked all the way through. It should hit 165°F on a meat thermometer.

Sauce it Up

While the chicken is frying, make the hot sauce. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in cayenne, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Once the chicken’s done, carefully scoop out 1/2 cup of that hot oil. Stir it into the butter mixture, and whisk it until it is all mixed up together.

Get that Chicken Hot

Put the cooked chicken in a clean bowl. Pour that delicious hot sauce all over it. Toss it gently so every piece is coated.

Slider Time

Toast the buns if you want. Put a piece of that hot chicken on the bottom of each bun. Add pickles, coleslaw, or spicy mayo if you’re feeling it. Top with the other half of the bun and enjoy!

Print
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Nashville Hot Chicken Slider Recipe

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with a Smoky Kick

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  • Author: Ryan Yates
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sliders 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American, Southern

Description

Get ready for a flavor explosion! These Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders pack the classic spicy punch you crave, but with a smoky twist that’ll have you hooked. Tender, juicy chicken is coated in a fiery blend of spices, then nestled in soft buns with cool, crisp toppings. Perfect for parties, game days, or any time you need a little heat in your life.

Equipment:

  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Shallow dish
  • Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet (can also use a deep fryer or air fryer, see notes)
  • Baking sheet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 12 slider-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup dill pickle juice
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup of the hot oil that you fried the chicken in, carefully strained

For Serving:

  • 12 slider buns
  • Dill pickle chips
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Spicy mayo (optional)


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, hot sauce, and egg. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
  2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres. Set aside.
  4. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1-inch of vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  5. Make the Hot Sauce: While the chicken is frying, make the hot sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Once the chicken is cooked, carefully strain 1/2 cup of the hot oil into the butter mixture and whisk until a homogenous sauce forms.
  6. Coat the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean bowl. Pour the hot sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
  7. Assemble the Sliders: Toast the slider buns if desired. Place a piece of hot chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top with dill pickle chips, coleslaw, or a dollop of spicy mayo, if desired. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

  • The Smoky Secret: This recipe uses smoked paprika in both the breading and the hot sauce, unlike most other recipes. This adds a layer of smoky depth that complements the heat beautifully and sets these sliders apart. The cornstarch also adds a layer of crispiness.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more if you like it fiery!
  • Cooking Methods: You can also bake or air fry the chicken. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crispy. For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Serving Suggestions: These sliders are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of fries, potato salad, or a crisp green salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ~ per slider
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Spice It Right: Creating the Signature Nashville Hot Sauce

This is where the magic happens, guys.

The sauce is what makes Nashville Hot Chicken, well, hot.

Our version uses melted butter as a base.

To that, we add a fiery blend of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt.

But the real secret is to take some of the hot oil you fried the chicken in and whisk it into the sauce.

It adds a ton of extra flavor.

Tips for Slider Perfection: Crispy Chicken and Flavorful Bites

boneless chicken pieces being fried to golden perfection

Want to make sure your sliders are the best they can be?

Here’s a few tips.

Don’t skip the marinade. That’s what makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature.

If it’s too hot, the chicken will burn.

If it’s too cold, it’ll be greasy.

When you’re breading the chicken, make sure you press the flour mixture onto each piece really well.

This will help it stick and create a nice, crispy crust.

Don’t overcrowd the pan when you’re frying.

Give each piece of chicken some space so it can cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Sliders

These sliders are pretty awesome on their own.

They also go great with all sorts of sides.

Try them with some crispy french fries, a side of potato salad, or a fresh green salad to balance out the heat.

And don’t forget the drinks.

A cold beer or some sweet tea are perfect for washing down these spicy little guys.

Slider Variations: Ways to Tweak the Heat and Flavor

The best thing about this recipe?

You can totally customize it to your liking.

If you don’t like things too spicy, use less cayenne pepper.

If you want to add even more smoke, try using a little liquid smoke in the marinade.

Not a fan of pickles? Leave ’em off.

Want to get crazy with the toppings?

Go for it!

Add some shredded lettuce, a slice of tomato, or even some crumbled bacon. The possibilities are endless, as they should be.

Make-Ahead and Storage: Keeping Your Sliders Tasting Great

Life happens, you know?

Sometimes you need to make things in advance.

You can marinate the chicken a day ahead.

You could also fry it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. Reheat in a 350 oven until its hot and crispy again.

You can make the sauce ahead of time.

Keep it in a separate container.

If you have leftover sliders, you can store them in the fridge for a day or two. But let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long.

Nutritional Insights

These sliders are definitely a treat, not health food. They’re fried, after all. But you can make some smart choices to lighten them up a bit. Each slider has roughly 350 calories, give or take. That depends on the size of your chicken pieces and the toppings you use. There will be some fat from the frying oil and the chicken thighs, about 18 grams per slider. You also get a good amount of protein, around 22 grams per slider. That will help keep you full. There’s a bit of sodium, around 800 milligrams, mainly from the salt and the hot sauce. And you’ll get some carbs from the bun and the breading, about 25 grams per slider.

Ingredient Alternatives

Chicken: Use breasts instead of thighs if you want a leaner option. You could also use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute. Mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes.

Hot Sauce: Any hot sauce works, choose your favorite.

Slider Buns: Try whole wheat buns for a healthier option. Or use lettuce wraps if you’re cutting carbs.

Answering Your Nashville Hot Chicken Slider Questions

Here are some of the questions people ask about these sliders.

Can I make these sliders less spicy?

Sure. Just reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading and the sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Put the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through, until they’re cooked through and crispy.

Can I use an air fryer?

Of course. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Cook the chicken for about 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway through, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

What kind of hot sauce should I use?

Any kind you like! Use your favorite brand.

Can I make the hot sauce ahead of time?

You bet. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How long will leftover sliders last in the fridge?

They’ll be good for a day or two. But they’re best eaten fresh.

My chicken is bland, what do I do?

First make sure to season it at every level. Second you can add more spices, herbs, or sauces to the breading, marinade, or hot sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Nashville Hot Chicken Slider Recipe

These sliders are a flavor explosion in every bite. They’re crispy, juicy, and packed with that signature Nashville heat.

The smoky twist we’ve added takes them to a whole new level.

They’re perfect for parties, easy super bowl party food, or just a fun weeknight meal.

So what are you waiting for?

Go make some Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders! You will not regret it.

The Final Bite

Alright, friends, you’ve conquered the heat.

You’ve crafted some seriously delicious Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders.

Hopefully, you now have a newfound appreciation for this Southern classic with a smoky twist. I know they will impress your friends and family.

Trust me, after two decades in the culinary game, these little guys still get me fired up.

If you are ready for more recipes that keep it real in the kitchen, check out the Simply Delicious Newsletter from Edible Exposure Media.

It is where we share all our best stuff. Now, go forth and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

You’ve earned it!

About the Author

Ryan Yates is a culinary expert with over 20 years of experience in commercial kitchens. As a working executive chef, he has a passion for creating delicious, accessible recipes that bring joy to home cooks everywhere. Ryan believes in the magic of simple ingredients and loves sharing his knowledge to help others find happiness in cooking.

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