This authentic Nashville hot seasoning captures the bold, spicy flavors that made Nashville’s hot chicken famous. While the city of Nashville is known for this iconic hot chicken, this versatile seasoning shines on far more than just fried chicken.
I call it a Nashville hot seasoning rather than a chicken-only blend because it works beautifully on many proteins and vegetables — you’ll want to keep a jar handy in the pantry.
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What Is Nashville Hot Seasoning Used For?
This seasoning is the classic pairing for fried chicken — especially when served with slices of white bread and dill pickles for the authentic Nashville hot chicken sandwich experience. Beyond fried chicken, try it on grilled or smoked chicken, pork chops, firm white fish, or tossed with roasted vegetables to add a smoky, spicy kick.
Some favorite uses include Nashville-style chicken burgers, roasted corn brushed with melted butter and this spice blend, and a spiced rub for roasted turkey or other poultry. It adds color, heat, and a touch of sweetness that balances rich and fatty dishes well.
Adjusting The Heat
This blend is formulated to deliver a noticeable but balanced heat. It won’t overpower most palates, but it will be distinctly spicy. If you prefer more intensity, increase the cayenne by a tablespoon or two. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne by a tablespoon. Small adjustments let you tailor the blend to sandwiches, rubs, or vegetable applications.
Tips For Making and Storing
- Mixing: Use a fork to combine the spices so the brown sugar breaks up; its tendency to clump is best handled by mashing the lumps with a fork until the sugar is evenly distributed.
- Storage: Store the seasoning in an airtight jar in a cool, dry cabinet. Proper storage preserves flavor and color; the blend will keep well for several weeks to a few months, but it’s best used within three to four weeks for peak freshness.
- Use as a rub and finishing dust: Apply the seasoning as a dry rub before cooking for a deep flavor, or sprinkle lightly over finished fried or roasted items to add a bright, spicy finish.
About The Ingredients
Cayenne: The primary source of heat in this blend. Adjust it to suit your tolerance.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle molasses sweetness and helps balance the heat. Brown sugar can clump, so break it up when mixing.
Garlic Powder: Use garlic powder rather than granulated garlic for a finer, more even texture.
Smoked Paprika: Provides smoky depth and color. Smoked paprika brings more flavor than sweet paprika, which is mostly for mild color.
Kosher Salt: Use a fine-grind kosher salt for even distribution. If using a brand with larger crystals, adjust the amount to taste.
Dry Mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness that complements the heat and sweetness.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a rounded, warm bite that works with the cayenne.
How To Make Nashville Hot Seasoning
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: N/A
Ingredients
¼ cup cayenne pepper
2 tbsp light brown sugar
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp fine kosher salt
2 tsp dry mustard (mustard powder)
2 tsp finely ground black pepper
Step 1: Add all ingredients to a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Use a fork to thoroughly mix the spices and press out any brown sugar clumps until the blend is uniform.
Step 3: Use the seasoning immediately, or transfer it to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. For best flavor, use within three to four weeks.
Nashville Hot Seasoning
5
Ingredients
- ¼ cup cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fine kosher salt
- 2 tsp mustard powder
- 2 tsp fine ground black pepper
Instructions
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Add all ingredients to a mixing bowl.
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Using a fork, mix the seasonings well, ensuring to break up any clumps of brown sugar by crushing them with the fork.
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Use right away, or store in an airtight container for three to four weeks.