If you love spicy, crispy chicken, the Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe is a must-try. This recipe brings bold heat, crunchy coating and juicy chicken together.
It is inspired by the famous hot chicken style many people love. You can adjust the spice level to your taste.
Today, I will share how to make Dave’s Hot Chicken at home using simple steps. You will also learn the best ingredients for Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe and helpful cooking tips.
My Experience With This Recipe
I tried this Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe at home after craving spicy food. The result was amazing. The chicken stayed juicy inside and very crispy outside.
The spicy oil gave it a deep red color and strong flavor. My family loved the mild version, while I enjoyed it extra hot.
It felt like restaurant-style chicken made at home. This recipe is now my go-to when I want comfort food with heat.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Dave’s Hot Chicken
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Course: Main
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Frying pan or deep pot
- Tongs
- Thermometer (optional)
- Paper towels
- Baking tray
Ingredients You Need for Dave’s Hot Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Oil for frying
For Hot Spice Oil:
- 1/2 cup frying oil
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Step-by-Step Guide
- Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken in buttermilk with salt and pepper. Rest for at least 30 minutes. - Prepare the Flour Mix
Mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder and onion powder in a bowl. - Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from buttermilk. Coat well in flour mixture. Press coating firmly. - Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Oil should be hot, not smoking. - Fry the Chicken
Fry chicken pieces until golden and crispy. Cook about 6-8 minutes per side. - Drain the Chicken
Remove chicken and place on paper towels. Let extra oil drain off. - Make the Hot Oil
Heat oil gently. Mix in cayenne, chili powder, paprika and brown sugar. - Brush the Chicken
Brush hot spice oil over fried chicken evenly. Adjust amount for heat level. - Rest and Serve
Let chicken rest for five minutes. Serve hot and crispy.
Tips to Make the Best Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Let chicken marinate longer for better flavor.
- Keep oil temperature steady while frying.
- Adjust cayenne amount to control heat.
- Brush spice oil gently to avoid soggy coating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Frying chicken in cold oil.
- Overcrowding the pan while frying.
- Skipping cornstarch in coating.
- Using too much spice oil at once.
- Not draining chicken properly after frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dave’s Hot Chicken with soft white bread, pickles and coleslaw. It also pairs well with fries or mac and cheese.
You can make sandwiches using toasted buns. For balance, serve with a cool dip or ranch sauce. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Variations You Can Try
- Make it mild by reducing cayenne pepper.
- Add honey to hot oil for sweet heat.
- Use chicken tenders for faster cooking.
- Try baking instead of frying for lighter version.
- Add hot chicken to sliders or wraps.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated for up to three days.
- Reheat in oven to keep it crispy.
- Avoid microwave for best texture.
- Add fresh spice oil after reheating if needed.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Health Benefits
The Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe provides good protein from chicken. Protein helps muscle growth and keeps you full longer. Spices like chili and paprika may boost metabolism slightly.
When eaten in moderation, this dish can fit into a balanced diet. Pairing it with vegetables makes it more nutritious.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Oil for frying
For Hot Spice Oil:
- 1/2 cup frying oil
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken in buttermilk with salt and pepper. Rest for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Flour Mix
- Mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder and onion powder in a bowl.
Coat the Chicken
- Remove chicken from buttermilk. Coat well in flour mixture. Press coating firmly.
Heat the Oil
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Oil should be hot, not smoking.
Fry the Chicken
- Fry chicken pieces until golden and crispy. Cook about 6-8 minutes per side.
Drain the Chicken
- Remove chicken and place on paper towels. Let extra oil drain off.
Make the Hot Oil
- Heat oil gently. Mix in cayenne, chili powder, paprika and brown sugar.
Brush the Chicken
- Brush hot spice oil over fried chicken evenly. Adjust amount for heat level.
Rest and Serve
- Let chicken rest for five minutes. Serve hot and crispy.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Let chicken marinate longer for better flavor.
- Keep oil temperature steady while frying.
- Adjust cayenne amount to control heat.
- Brush spice oil gently to avoid soggy coating.
FAQs about Dave’s Hot Chicken
Q1: Can I make Dave’s Hot Chicken less spicy?
Yes, reduce cayenne pepper and chili powder. You can even skip the spice oil completely.
Q2: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake at high heat until crispy. Brush with oil before baking for better color.
Q3: What cut of chicken works best?
Chicken thighs are best because they stay juicy. Breasts also work if cooked carefully.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can fry chicken ahead, but brush spice oil just before serving for best taste.
Q5: What sauce goes well with hot chicken?
Ranch, honey mustard or garlic mayo work very well with spicy chicken.
Final Thoughts
The Dave’s Hot Chicken Recipe is spicy, crispy and very satisfying. It brings restaurant-style flavor into your kitchen.
With simple ingredients and clear steps, anyone can make it. You can control the heat level to suit your taste.
Follow the tips, avoid common mistakes and enjoy bold flavor at home. This recipe is perfect for spice lovers and comfort food fans alike.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!