Description
These Nashville Hot Chicken Strips are crispy, juicy, and packed with bold southern flavor. Perfect for dinner or a party, they’re spicy without overwhelming and pair beautifully with classic sides like fries or coleslaw.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp paprika (smoked for best flavor)
1–2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp honey (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Prep the chicken: Optional brine or buttermilk soak for 30 minutes to keep chicken juicy. Pat dry.
Mix coating: Combine flour, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Dredge chicken: Coat each tender evenly in the spice-flour mix.
Fry chicken: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry tenders 3–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal).
Prepare spice sauce: Melt butter, add paprika, cayenne, and honey. Brush over hot fried chicken strips.
Serve: Plate with sides like coleslaw, pickles, or fries.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
Use a wire rack to drain excess oil—keeps strips crispy.
Adjust cayenne to taste; start mild if you prefer less heat.
Try double-dredging for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4