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Crispy Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Ultra crispy chicken tenders coated in a spicy Nashville-style hot oil glaze with bold Southern flavor and juicy interior.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken Marinade
  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
Crispy Coating
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
Nashville Hot Oil
  • 0.5 cup hot frying oil
  • 2 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Deep frying pan or fryer
  • Wire rack
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for at least 1 hour.
  2. Mix flour, cornstarch, and spices in a large bowl.
  3. Heat oil to 175°C (350°F) in a deep pan.
  4. Coat chicken in flour mixture, pressing firmly for a crunchy crust.
  5. Fry chicken in batches for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.
  6. Mix hot oil with cayenne, sugar, and spices to create Nashville glaze.
  7. Brush chicken with hot oil mixture until fully coated.
  8. Serve immediately with pickles and bread.

Notes

Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level. Double frying increases crispiness.