Restaurant vs Homemade Nashville Style Hot Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, mustard powder, black pepper, and onion powder, and mix well.

In a large bowl, place chicken and pat dry. Add 5 tablespoons of the spice mix and salt, and mix well, making sure all the chicken is fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap and rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours.

In a small saucepan, combine canola oil, 2 tablespoons of the spice mix, and brown sugar over medium heat and stir until the brown sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

In a medium-size bowl, add the buttermilk and hot sauce, and mix well.

Dredge each piece of chicken into the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the buttermilk mixture, then back into the flour.

Heat oil to 325°F (170°C) in a deep pot.

Fry 3-4 chicken pieces at a time, making sure to not overcrowd the pot, for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack over a baking sheet and brush with the spicy oil Dust with the remaining spice mixture.

Place on a slice of white bread and top with dill pickle.

Enjoy!