Nashville's Must-Try Dish: Hot Chicken

Any local can tell you about the droves of people migrating to Music City. There’s no doubt that Nashville is hot right now. We can give credit to its vibrant music scene and modern take on southern hospitality, but as foodies, we’re compelled to acknowledge the most famous Nashville dish, the secret of which can be found under a pickle slice and on top of simple white bread: Hot Chicken. Made famous by Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and reinvented by Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, the city is dotted with those serving their own special brand. Each purveyor of the tongue-tingling southern staple has his or her own secret, but any version you try will undoubtedly leave you craving more. In fact, Nashvillians are so addicted to this delicacy that they celebrate every fourth of July with the Music City Hot Chicken Festival. Hopefuls from all over town flock to the festival to compete, yearning to grasp the first-place trophy in their grease-soaked hands. This recipe, indicative of what is served around town, comes directly from the festival’s 2008 winner, Justin Jones. 

Want to spice up your kitchen with the flavors of Nashville? Check out these rubs and pastes to do it yourself.