The Spiciest Hot Chicken in Nashville – A Lip-Burning Guide
When visiting Music City, spice seekers flock to Nashville’s iconic hot chicken – fried chicken coated in a fiery chili paste. This classic Nashville specialty burgers your taste buds with its addictive heat. From low spice levels to extra spicy options, here’s where to find the best hot chicken in Nashville.
Hot Chicken Classics
- Prince’s Hot Chicken – The original since 1945. Get mild, medium, hot, or extra hot fried chicken with crinkly fries. Cash only.
- Hattie B’s – Popular hot chicken chain with heat levels from southern (no spice) up to the fiery, tourist-tested “Shut the Cluck Up”.
- Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish – Signature crispy fried chicken seasoned with cayenne pepper. Try the sausage and cheese-topped “Fowl Bowl”.
Off-the-Beaten Path Favorites
- Slow Burn Hot Chicken – Small batch hot chicken plus creative sandwiches like the fiery “Poultrygeist” with ghost pepper cheese.
- Pepperfire – No-frills joint crafting juicy Nashville hot chicken tenders and wings doused in habanero oil.
- King’s Market Cafe – Unassuming spot dishing out hot chicken plates and jumbo sandwiches with classic Nashville flavor.
Hot Chicken FAQ
What is the hottest hot chicken in Nashville?
The “Shut the Cluck Up” level at Hattie B’s is Nashville’s hottest widely available hot chicken, made with dried reaper peppers.
Where can I get Nashville hot chicken to-go?
Most Nashville hot chicken places offer take-out, especially Pepperfire, Hattie B’s, Prince’s, Bolton’s, and 400 Degrees.
What should you eat with Nashville hot chicken?
Pair your spicy hot chicken with cool, creamy sides like potato salad, coleslaw, mac and cheese or baked beans. And plenty of ice cold drinks!
How should I prepare for eating very hot chicken?
It helps to line your stomach first. Have milk, yogurt or ice cream ready to cool your mouth. Avoid rubbing your eyes!
Is all hot chicken spicy?
Not necessarily. Choose “mild” or “medium” heat levels for a little kick, or try chicken tenders which are less spicy than bone-in or sandwich options.
With flavors ranging from mildly spiced to blow-your-head-off fiery, Nashville’s iconic hot chicken awaits. Be brave and dig in – just have plenty of napkins and cold drinks ready to tame the heat!