If you love your chicken spicy, crispy, and packed with bold Southern flavor, Nashville hot chicken is likely already on your radar. But with so many restaurants claiming to serve the hottest, crispiest, and most flavorful version, which ones really deliver? We’re taking the heat seriously in this showdown of top Nashville hot chicken spots across major cities. From original recipes to creative takes, here’s where to turn up the heat, plus how you can earn savings on your spicy indulgence with Fluz.

What Makes Nashville Hot Chicken Special?

Before we get into the contenders, let’s be clear about what Nashville hot chicken is all about. At its core, it’s fried chicken that’s been dunked or brushed in a fiery oil-based sauce spiced with cayenne pepper and other seasonings. The heat builds fast but is usually balanced with a signature tang and crispy coating, often served with white bread and pickles to cut through the spice.

What really sets great Nashville hot chicken apart is balance. It’s not just about heat for the sake of heat — it’s about layering flavor, crunch, and that fiery thrill.

Hattie B’s (Multiple Locations Nationwide)

If you want a spot that’s practically synonymous with Nashville hot chicken, Hattie B’s tops the list. With locations in Nashville, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Dallas, and more, they offer a heat spectrum from mild to “Shut the Cluck Up.” Their chicken boasts a juicy interior, shatteringly crisp crust, and sauces that hit with both fire and flavor. Portions are generous, and the menu has plenty of sides to balance the burn.

Dave’s Hot Chicken (Various Cities)

Dave’s Hot Chicken brings West Coast energy to the Nashville hot tradition, with locations in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami. Known for ultra-crispy tenders and sliders, Dave’s heat levels start at “No Spice” and rise to “Reaper,” their eye-watering top tier. The flavor is bold but approachable, and portion sizes are ideal for hungry spice seekers on the go.

Prince’s Hot Chicken (Nashville Original)

If you’re lucky enough to visit Nashville, Prince’s Hot Chicken is the OG. This is the place that started it all, with a recipe that dates back to the 1930s. Prince’s doesn’t play around — their hot chicken brings unapologetic heat, and it’s as authentic as it gets. Crunchy, fiery, and satisfying, Prince’s keeps it simple and lets the seasoning speak for itself.

Howlin’ Ray’s (Los Angeles, CA)

For West Coast heat chasers, Howlin’ Ray’s in Los Angeles delivers serious spice. Famous for long lines and electrifying flavor, their “Howlin’” level heat is not for the faint of heart. Expect a crispy exterior, tender meat, and heat that lingers long after the last bite. The sandwich option is especially popular, balancing spice with slaw and pickles for extra crunch.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken (Various Cities)

While Gus’s doesn’t market itself strictly as “Nashville hot chicken,” it deserves an honorable mention. Gus’s locations from Memphis to Austin to Chicago serve spicy, flavorful fried chicken with a thinner, crisp coating and juicy meat. Their signature spice level hits that sweet spot: hot enough to satisfy but still deeply flavorful.

Evaluating Heat, Flavor, Crispiness, and Portion Size

When it comes to true contenders in the Nashville hot chicken category, several factors set the best apart.

Heat Levels: Restaurants like Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Ray’s offer broad heat ranges to suit all palates. If you’re a heat maximalist, aim for their top tiers, but if you’re easing in, start milder and build up.

Flavor: Great hot chicken layers heat with smoky paprika, garlic powder, and sometimes a hint of sweetness. Prince’s and Hattie B’s nail this balance exceptionally well.

Crispiness: Crispy, craggy crusts matter — and Dave’s Hot Chicken excels here, especially with their tenders.

Portion Size: Hattie B’s and Gus’s both deliver hefty portions, perfect for sharing or satisfying solo cravings.

Your Turn: Who’s Your Favorite?

We want to hear from you. Have you tried all of these hot chicken icons? Do you swear by your neighborhood spot that deserves a mention? Drop your favorites and spicy recommendations. Whether you crave blistering heat or something milder, your taste buds will thank you for the adventure.

And if you’re stacking your savings as you explore spicy hotspots, remember to pull up the Fluz app. Fluz lets you score instant cashback when you buy gift cards to food favorites, including delivery platforms and local restaurants — perfect for your next hot chicken run.