Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with Honey

A Spicy, Sweet, and Crispy Twist on a Classic

If you love the bold heat of Nashville hot chicken but want a slightly lighter take, this Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with Honey is the perfect solution. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a fiery Nashville hot sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a drizzle of honey. The best part? It’s baked instead of fried, making it easier and less messy while still delivering all the flavor and crunch you crave.

This sandwich is perfect for weeknight dinners, game day treats, or anytime you’re craving something spicy, sweet, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Healthier than the fried version – Baking instead of deep-frying means less oil but all the crispiness.
• Incredible balance of flavors – The spicy cayenne sauce is complemented by sweet honey for a perfectly layered taste.
• Great for meal prep – Make the chicken ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredient Notes

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pounded to even thickness for quick and even baking.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
• Flour & Panko breadcrumbs – The combination gives the chicken a crisp, golden crust.
• Eggs – Helps the coating stick.
• Salt & Pepper – Simple but essential seasoning.

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

• Cayenne pepper – The key to that signature spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
• Paprika & garlic powder – Adds depth and smokiness.
• Brown sugar – A touch of sweetness balances the heat.
• Butter & oil – Helps the sauce coat the chicken evenly.

For the Sandwich Assembly:

• Brioche buns – Soft and slightly sweet, the perfect contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Honey – Drizzled on top for the ultimate sweet-and-spicy flavor.
• Pickles – Adds a tangy crunch that cuts through the heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
• Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra tenderness).

2. Prepare the Coating

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• In one shallow dish, whisk eggs.
• In another, mix flour, panko, paprika, and salt.
• Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then egg, then back into the flour mixture for extra crispiness.

3. Bake the Chicken

• Place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet (this helps keep it crispy).
• Spray lightly with cooking oil for a golden crust.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temp reaches 165°F.

4. Make the Nashville Hot Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
• Stir in cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and oil.
• Once the chicken is done, brush or toss it in the hot sauce.

5. Assemble the Sandwiches

• Toast the brioche buns for extra flavor.
• Place the hot chicken on the bottom bun, drizzle with honey, and top with pickles.
• Add the top bun and serve immediately!

Expert Tips for the Best Sandwich

• Use a wire rack for baking – This keeps the chicken crispy all around.
• Let the chicken rest before tossing in sauce – This prevents the coating from getting soggy.
• Adjust the heat level – Reduce the cayenne for a milder version or add more for an extra fiery bite.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crispy fries, coleslaw, or sweet potato wedges for a full meal.
• Pair with a cold beer or sweet iced tea to balance the heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and even bake it ahead. When ready to eat, reheat and toss in hot sauce before assembling the sandwich.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead of baking?

Absolutely! Air-fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Can I make this sandwich less spicy?

Reduce the cayenne pepper in the hot sauce or swap it with smoked paprika for a milder heat.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with Honey is spicy, crispy, and perfectly balanced with a drizzle of honey. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and a little heat!

If you make this recipe, let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Happy cooking!

Print