Last Updated on September 17, 2023
When we say Nashville style here, we mean the super tasty, super spicy, preparation of fried chicken that’s become synonymous with the city’s culinary identity and by natural extension, southern cuisine. First created by the Prince Family (and continues to be served) at their “Chicken Shack,” the dish has gained popularity in cities across America where lines can form outside restaurants from diners who want to feel the heat and taste the warmth of the South. What about making it at home? Well, with ButcherBox’s Chicken Wings and the convenience of an air fryer, you too can make and taste it, all without having to heat a big pot of oil or wait in a line. But be sure to taste the real thing one day!
The air fryer may not be a traditional way of making hot chicken, but it does have a couple advantages. For one, it makes clean-up really easy. Also, a lot less oil is used, actually hardly any.
Ingredients
For the dry rub
- 1 tbsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cayenne powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk or whole milk
- 2 lbs ButcherBox Chicken Wings
For the dry dredge and frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- cooking spray, such as Pam
For the final hot paste coating
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp plus 2 teaspoons ground cayenne
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp crushed chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
For serving
- soft white bread
- pickles
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk all the salt, sugar and spices together, then pour in the buttermilk, whisk again and then add chicken wings and toss well to coat evenly. Set in the fridge, covered, for 1 hour, or longer if you have time.
- When ready to fry, preheat the Air Fryer to 400ºF. In another large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Lift the wings out of the marinade, let excess drip off then dredge each wing in the flour mixture very well. Lift the wings out of the flour bowl, spray them with cooking spray and then place on the Air Fryer rack and/or grate in a single layer. Air fry for 20 minutes (or until internal temperature reaches 165º F), flipping them halfway through. Repeat frying process with remaining battered chicken.
- While chicken wings are air frying, melt the butter in a small pot over medium-low heat. Add the sugar, cayenne, paprika and salt, and whisk very well until the sugar has melted. Taste, adjust for seasoning and heat, then set aside.
- When ready to serve, toss the wings in batches in the butter and spice sauce and transfer to a serving bowl with the soft white bread and pickles nearby.
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