Description
Nashville Hot Chicken Strips are the ultimate spicy and crispy indulgence, bringing the bold flavors of Southern cuisine to your table. These tender chicken strips are marinated in a zesty blend of buttermilk and pickle juice, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Coated in a crunchy double dredge, they achieve a satisfying crispiness that pairs perfectly with a homemade chili oil that adds an extra kick. Ideal for game day, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, these Nashville Hot Chicken Strips can be served as an appetizer, in sandwiches, or alongside your favorite sides. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable heat levels, this recipe is perfect for everyone seeking delicious comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 4 long inch strips)
- 2 cups buttermilk (divided)
- 1/2 cup dill pickle juice
- 4 Tbsp hot sauce (divided)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp granulated garlic or garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 6 cups vegetable oil for frying (reserve 1/3 cup for chili oil)
- 1/3 cup frying oil
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
- 2 Tbsp cayenne pepper for chili oil
- 2 Tbsp light or dark brown sugar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt for chili oil
- 1 tsp dark chili powder
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken by combining it with buttermilk, pickle juice, and hot sauce. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the coating by mixing flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, and granulated garlic in one bowl and whisk together reserved 1 cup buttermilk, eggs, and 1 Tbsp hot sauce in another.
- Dredge each chicken strip: first in the flour mixture, then in the egg wash, and finally back into the flour mix to ensure a thick coating.
- Let the coated strips rest for 20 minutes before frying.
- Heat oil to 325-335°F and fry chicken strips until golden brown on both sides.
- Make chili oil by combining hot frying oil with melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and dark chili powder; brush over fried chicken before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 chicken strips (120g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Adjust cayenne pepper to customize heat according to preference. Serve with dill pickles, soft bread, or your favorite dipping sauces for an authentic touch.