Nashville Hot Oven-Fried Chicken

Nashville Hot Oven-Fried Chicken offers the legendary heat and crunch of the Southern classic without the need for deep frying. This fiery favorite captures the bold cayenne kick and crispy texture that fans crave—baked in the oven for a healthier, more accessible approach. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a spicy Southern-style meal, whether you’re serving it at a weekend cookout or a casual dinner at home.

The process begins by marinating the chicken in a rich buttermilk and egg mixture, which not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the seasoned flour coating stick and crisp beautifully in the oven. The result is a golden, crunchy crust that mimics the texture of fried chicken while keeping the kitchen mess and oil splatter to a minimum.

What sets Nashville hot chicken apart is its iconic glaze—a smoky, sweet, and fiery oil mixture infused with cayenne, brown sugar, and paprika. Brushed over the freshly baked chicken, this glaze delivers the signature heat that defines the dish. It’s a bold and spicy flavor experience that builds with every bite, balanced by a touch of sweetness and the juicy tenderness of the chicken inside.

This oven-fried version keeps things practical while staying true to the spirit of the original. Serve it up with traditional sides like sliced white bread and dill pickles to complete the Nashville experience. Whether you’re a spice lover or simply curious, this recipe brings big flavor to the table with ease.

Servings and timing:
Yield: Serves 4
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes marinating)

Ingredients :

For the chicken:

• 8 pieces bone-in chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Nashville hot oil:

• ¼ cup vegetable oil (or reserved pan drippings)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

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