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When it comes to your next meal, you want a sandwich that is going to blow your mind. A good chicken sandwich has the perfect combination of unique flavors and textures that come together in one tasty bite. If you're looking for some inspiration when it comes to creating your own hot chicken sandwich at home, then this guide is for you!

What is a hot chicken sandwich?

A hot chicken sandwich is an American-style deep-fried chicken breast that is processed and marinated with a blend of heat spices. It usually includes pickles and bread, and can be accompanied by vegetable options such as cole slaw and french fries. This sandwich is popular because it stepped out of Nashville's local tradition and now has fans all over the world.

What makes hot chicken sandwich so popular?

The spices in the chicken combined with pickles and bread create a unique flavor profile that makes it difficult to stop eating. It's hot, but there is also sweetness that keeps you coming back for one more bite. With several popular restaurants popping up all over the world, this sandwich has become international acclaim.

How to make your own hot chicken sandwich

The components of the hot chicken sandwich are very simple. You need a toasted bun (preferably white bread), your processed and marinated chicken, pickles, and maybe some vegetables like cole slaw or french fries if you choose. Combine these items together in whatever combination that you prefer!

There are three common options when it comes to your ideal fried chicken:

1. Breast - Usually the leanest option, this meat typically does not contain any fat or gristle. However, keep in mind that it might prove difficult to consume if you're expecting a lot of sauce on your sandwich.

2. Thigh - This option is usually more flavorful than the other two, but it's also harder to bite through. If you choose this piece, make sure you have a stout set of teeth!

3. Wing - The bones are generally larger in this part, so if you are not looking for something too tricky to eat then go with the breast or thigh. However, wings tend to be just as flavorful as thighs while offering an easier experience when consuming your sandwich.

Making your own hot chicken sandwich from scratch is a good idea if you crave the spicy goodness of this dish. Plus, it's more fun and customizable if you make it without following a recipe! Here is some advice on getting started:

• The type of bread that you use for your toasted buns can add another dimension of flavor to your sandwich. Try using challah or brioche instead of white bread. This will create the perfect combination of soft on the inside and crispy on the outside!
• When it comes to pickles, consider making them yourself so they are fresh and briny. You can even try different types of pickles such as kosher dill or sweet gher. Pickles not only add a great crunch to your sandwich, but they also help to balance out the spiciness of it.
• Coleslaw is a great side dish with hot chicken because it helps provide relief from its heat. If you're not too keen on coleslaw, then french fries are another good addition. They have similar moisture properties as coleslaw and also take the heat out of your mouth.

Now you can enjoy one of Nashville's most beloved dishes right at home.

What sauce do you use on a hot chicken sandwich?

The typical ingredients that go into making these sauces are tomato paste, hot pepper sauce, vinegar, brown sugar and cayenne pepper flakes among other spices. Traditionally, the sauces also include Worcestershire sauce for a tangy flavor and lemon juice to balance out the heat. In terms of thickness, hot chicken sauces are usually thinner than barbecue sauces with a glaze-like consistency.

Nashville hot chicken sandwiches use a blend of cayenne pepper and vinegar as the main ingredients in their spicy coating. However, different regions have their own unique styles so feel free to experiment with different kinds of spices until you find something that tastes great with your palate!

What kind of bread is used on a hot chicken sandwich?

A popular choice consists of two or three slices of white sandwich bread which acts as a sturdy base for the contents within the roll. The most common type of bread used in hot chicken sandwiches is potato bread, which has the perfect thickness and consistency for this type of meal.

While many people opt to use buns or tortillas for their hot chicken sandwich, the traditional way to serve it is on sliced bread. Of course, if you prefer to switch things up then feel free to do so once you learn about all the different ways you can enjoy your favorite spicy dish!

What kind of cheese does a hot chicken sandwich usually have?

A popular choice when it comes to incorporating additional flavors involves using cheddar or pepper jack cheese. You can even try out different types of cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella or provolone depending on what your preference is when it comes to your sandwich.

Many people are surprised to hear that Monterey jack is a popular ingredient in hot chicken sandwiches because it provides an additional layer of flavor that goes well with the spices used throughout the dish. However, you might find that some places serve their hot chicken without incorporating any cheese at all since sauce is usually used as a substitute for cheese on this sandwich.

Where to get the best hot chicken burger in Nashville?

If there's one thing I know well, it's hot chicken. But what about hot chicken burgers? There are hundreds of places in Nashville to get a variation of the spicy dish, but which spot has the best joint for that hot 'n' juicy sandwich? We hit Burger Republic and Petunia's to find out.

400 Degrees Hot Chicken

• Aqui Hines, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, grew up eating Prince's Hot Chicken and adored it so much she started her own restaurant with her own distinct spin. Deep-fried rather than skillet-fried chicken is a key distinction between 400 degrees and most other restaurants, according to Hines' hot chicken recipe. She also recently added a food truck to her business and has relocated inside BNA. The hot chicken seasoning, T-shirts, and gift cards from 400 Degrees can all be purchased.
  

Big Shake's Hot Chicken & Fish

• Big Shake's offers heat seekers outside of Nashville the chance to join in on the fiery fun. Live outside of Nashville and miss real hot chicken? Big Shake's provides hot chicken throughout the United States, including shipping it within two days and selling merchandise (free delivery with two items purchased) — including hot chicken seasoning so you can attempt making Nashville's famous dish at home.

What is a hot chicken sandwich? It’s just what it sounds like-a fried, spicy chicken sandwich. For one thing, Nashville has some of the best hot chicken sandwiches in town. We could go on and on about how to make your own home made version or which sauce you should use, but we think that these tips will get you started.