Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Zesty Dill Pickle Aioli

There’s something irresistible about Nashville hot chicken sliders that brings bold Southern flavors packed into bite-sized goodness. These spicy Nashville hot chicken sliders with zesty dill pickle aioli are perfect whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a satisfying snack with a kick.

this Recipe

When you make this recipe, you’ll enjoy juicy, crispy fried chicken coated in a fiery spice blend, balanced perfectly by a creamy, tangy dill pickle aioli. The sliders are easy to assemble and ideal for game day, parties, or any time you want a taste of Nashville’s iconic heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, spicy flavor balanced by cool, zesty aioli.
• Perfect slider size for parties or casual meals.
• Juicy fried chicken with a crispy, crunchy coating.
• Quick and straightforward frying method.
• Fresh dill pickle slices add a crisp, tangy bite.

Ingredients

This recipe combines a spicy chicken coating, zesty aioli, and fresh slider buns for a perfect bite every time.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into slider-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
• 6 slider buns, toasted
• Fresh dill pickle slices for topping

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Zesty Dill Pickle Aioli:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6 sliders
• Calories: Approximately 370 per serving

How to Make Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Zesty Dill Pickle Aioli!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. While the chicken marinates, prepare the Nashville hot sauce by whisking together melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the flour, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large shallow dish.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
6. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Drain on paper towels.
7. Brush each fried chicken piece generously with the Nashville hot sauce while still hot.
8. Make the dill pickle aioli by mixing mayonnaise, pickle juice, chopped pickles, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Assemble sliders by spreading aioli on the bottom bun, topping with hot chicken, a few dill pickle slices, then the top bun. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful sliders.
• Toast the slider buns lightly to prevent sogginess from the aioli.
• Adjust cayenne pepper in the hot sauce to control heat level.
• Keep fried chicken warm in a low oven before serving to retain crispiness.
• Make the aioli a few hours ahead to let flavors meld.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover fried chicken and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dill pickle aioli refrigerated as well.

To reheat, warm the chicken in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to crisp it back up. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy. Assemble sliders fresh after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for frying. Just make sure the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum for best results.

Is there a healthier way to make Nashville hot chicken sliders?

For a lighter version, bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of some mayonnaise in the aioli to reduce calories.

How spicy are these sliders?

The recipe is moderately spicy thanks to cayenne pepper and smoked paprika. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the cayenne in the seasoning and hot sauce.

Can I prepare the components in advance?

Absolutely! The hot sauce and dill pickle aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours early for extra tenderness and flavor.