Hot chicken is a type of fried chicken that is a local specialty of Nashville, Tennessee, in the United States. It is known for its spicy, cayenne pepper-infused coating. The preparation of hot chicken involves marinating the chicken pieces in a heavily spiced mixture, often including buttermilk to tenderize the meat. After marination, the chicken is floured and fried until crisp. The defining characteristic of hot chicken is the application of a spicy paste or sauce made primarily from cayenne pepper and other spices, brushed or ladled onto the fried chicken.

The spice level of hot chicken can vary from mildly spicy to extremely hot, and it is often served atop slices of white bread with pickle chips as a traditional accompaniment. This dish is celebrated for its balance of flavors and textures, combining the juicy, tender meat inside with a crunchy, fiery exterior. Hot chicken has gained popularity beyond Nashville and can now be found in various forms across the United States, though purists argue that the authentic taste and experience can only be found in its city of origin.

Image from Bon Appetit