Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First, grab a bowl and mix the buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge the chicken thighs in the mixture and let them marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take the marinated chicken and dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure every inch is covered. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the coated chicken pieces until they are golden brown and fully cooked, usually about 8–10 minutes per side.
Step 5: Serve Your Chicken
Remove the chicken from the oil and let it rest on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey and pickles on the side for a traditional Nashville touch.