Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Strips

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Strips.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious chicken strips, grab a large bowl and pour in 1 quart of water.

2. Step 2

   Add 1/4 cup of salt, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of your favorite hot sauce.

3. Step 3

   Give it a good stir until the salt and sugar dissolve completely, creating a flavorful brine.

4. Step 4

   Now, gently place your chicken strips into the brine, making sure they’re fully submerged.

5. Step 5

   Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

6. Step 6

   This step is key for juicy, flavorful chicken! Once the brining time is up, take the chicken out and toss the brine away.

7. Step 7

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and set a baking rack on a baking sheet, giving it a light spray of cooking spray to prevent sticking.

8. Step 8

   In a shallow bowl, mix together 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a dash of black pepper to taste.

9. Step 9

   Stir it all together until well combined.

10. Step 10

    Now, it’s time to coat your chicken! Dredge each strip in the seasoning mixture, pressing gently to ensure both sides are evenly coated.

11. Step 11

    Arrange the seasoned chicken on the prepared rack, ready for baking.

12. Step 12

    Pop the chicken into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20 minutes.

13. Step 13

    After that, give the tops a quick spray with cooking spray, flip them over, and spray the other side too.

14. Step 14

    Continue baking until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, which should take about another 10 minutes.

15. Step 15

    You’ll know it’s done when an instant-read thermometer shows at least 165°F (74°C).

16. Step 16

    While the chicken is baking, heat some oil in a small pan over medium heat until it shimmers invitingly.

17. Step 17

    In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.

18. Step 18

    Carefully add this spicy mixture to the hot oil and stir for about 30 seconds to combine the flavors.

19. Step 19

    Once your chicken is perfectly baked, brush this zesty oil mixture onto the strips, adding extra layers if you crave more heat.

20. Step 20

    Enjoy your flavorful, crispy chicken strips that are sure to impress!.