Nashville Chicken Tenders are a deliciously spicy and crispy take on the classic chicken tender. Originating from Nashville, Tennessee, this dish has quickly gained popularity across the United States, known for its bold flavors and fiery kick. Nashville chicken is traditionally made with cayenne pepper and other spices, creating a sauce that delivers a perfect balance of heat and flavor. As you savor each tender, you'll experience a satisfying crunch followed by a mouthwatering tingling sensation that keeps you coming back for more.
The history of Nashville hot chicken dates back to the 1930s when it was first served at a family-owned business, Prince's Hot Chicken Shack. This culinary delight was initially created as a revenge dish, but soon became a beloved staple. Today, you can find Nashville Chicken Tenders in numerous restaurants and fast-food chains, but making them at home allows you to control the level of heat and tailor the recipe to your taste preferences. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a comforting meal, these chicken tenders are sure to impress.
For more information on the history of Nashville hot chicken, visit Nashville Hot Chicken History.
Ingredients for Nashville Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions for Making Nashville Chicken Tenders
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken tenders and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan. The oil should be about 2 inches deep.
- Remove chicken from marinade and dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Set fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Brush the spicy butter mixture over the fried chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Nashville Chicken Tenders are an indulgent treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. Each serving of chicken tenders contains approximately 420 calories, with 25 grams of protein and 22 grams of fat. The dish's high protein content is beneficial for muscle repair and growth, making it a suitable option for those looking to increase their protein intake. However, it's important to consider the sodium content, which can be up to 800 mg per serving. For those monitoring their sodium intake, adjusting the amount of salt and hot sauce used can help reduce the overall sodium level.
The presence of spices such as cayenne pepper and paprika not only adds flavor but also offers various health benefits. Cayenne pepper is known for its metabolism-boosting properties, while paprika provides antioxidants that can support immune health. To learn more about the nutritional benefits of cayenne pepper, visit Healthline's Cayenne Pepper Nutrition.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Nashville Chicken Tenders
Nashville Chicken Tenders pair excellently with a variety of beverages. For those who enjoy alcoholic drinks, a chilled glass of crisp, refreshing beer such as a pilsner or pale ale can help balance the heat of the chicken. If you prefer wine, opt for a slightly sweet Riesling or a Zinfandel to complement the flavors of the dish. Non-alcoholic options include iced tea with a splash of lemon or a cool lemonade, both of which provide a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the tenders.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To achieve the best flavor and texture for your Nashville Chicken Tenders, follow these helpful tips. Firstly, ensure that the chicken is fully marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce. This step not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes the meat. For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture, allowing it to rest for a couple of minutes between dips. This resting period helps the coating adhere better to the chicken.
If you prefer a milder heat, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the spicy butter mixture or replace it with a milder spice. You can also experiment with additional flavors by incorporating herbs such as thyme or oregano into the flour mixture. For a healthier version, consider baking the chicken tenders instead of frying. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. This method reduces the overall fat content while maintaining a deliciously crispy exterior.
Finally, always serve the tenders immediately after coating them with the spicy butter mixture to enjoy their optimal flavor and crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These Nashville Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to suit your occasion. For a classic presentation, serve the tenders on a platter accompanied by pickles and slices of white bread, which help temper the heat and make for a traditional Nashville experience. If you’re hosting a casual gathering, consider presenting them as part of a slider bar. Provide small buns, coleslaw, and various condiments so that guests can create their own mini sandwiches.
For a more substantial meal, serve the tenders alongside a heaping portion of creamy mac and cheese or a fresh green salad to balance the meal's richness. For a healthier twist, pair the chicken with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad for added nutrition and color. You can also dice the tenders and add them to a vibrant wrap filled with crunchy veggies and a tangy sauce, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Nashville Chicken Tenders Health Benefits
While Nashville Chicken Tenders are primarily enjoyed as a treat, they do offer some health benefits. The high protein content is excellent for muscle maintenance and growth, making them a satisfying option for those looking to increase their protein intake. The spices used in the dish, such as cayenne pepper and paprika, provide antioxidants and may boost metabolism. Cayenne pepper is particularly noted for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to aid in digestion. However, it is important to consume these tenders in moderation due to their higher calorie and fat content.
Opting for baking instead of frying can reduce the overall fat intake while still delivering a crispy texture. Additionally, customizing the spice level can help accommodate dietary preferences and sensitivities, ensuring the dish remains an enjoyable experience for all.
FAQs About Nashville Chicken Tenders
Can I make Nashville Chicken Tenders less spicy?
Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper or substituting it with a milder spice.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices due to their high smoke points, which are suitable for frying.
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes will yield crispy tenders with less oil.
Nashville Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of crispy texture and spicy flavor that is hard to resist. Whether you're a fan of fiery foods or new to the world of hot chicken, this recipe allows you to enjoy a taste of Tennessee from the comfort of your home. By following the provided tips and variations, you can easily customize the dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. As you explore the different ways to serve and enjoy them, you'll find that these tenders are a versatile addition to any menu, suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. Embrace the heat and savor the deliciousness of Nashville Chicken Tenders with your favorite accompaniments.