13 Tennessee Hot Chicken Spots That Can Turn Down The Heat
Nashville hot chicken has taken the culinary world by storm with its fiery reputation. But what if you love the flavor but can’t handle extreme spice?
Fortunately, many Tennessee hot chicken joints offer milder options that deliver all the taste without setting your mouth ablaze.
Check out these 13 spots where you can enjoy Nashville’s famous dish at whatever heat level suits your palate.
1. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – Nashville
Craving flavor without the five-alarm fire? Hattie B’s famous ‘Southern’ option delivers all the signature taste with zero heat.
Locals flock to this Nashville institution for its perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat. Family-owned since 2012, Hattie B’s also offers ‘Mild’ for those wanting just a hint of warmth.
2. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack – Nashville
Birthplace of Nashville hot chicken offers a ‘Plain’ option that skips the cayenne altogether. Founded in the 1930s by Thornton Prince, this legendary spot started the entire hot chicken movement.
Visitors appreciate how Prince’s maintains exceptional flavor even without the heat. Many chicken connoisseurs actually prefer trying the original recipe this way first.
3. Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish – Nashville
Secretly one of the best mild options in town! Bolton’s ‘No Heat’ chicken comes straight from a decades-old family recipe that focuses on crispy perfection.
What makes this spot special? Unlike others, Bolton’s dry-rubs their chicken rather than using a wet application. Regulars swear the seasoning blend creates deeper flavor complexity even without scorching spice.
4. Pepperfire Hot Chicken – Nashville
Mild-mannered folks rejoice! Pepperfire’s ‘Light Mild’ option delivers subtle warmth without overwhelming your taste buds. Chicken arrives with a gorgeous golden-brown coating that’s deceptively gentle.
Kids especially love this approachable entry point to Nashville’s famous dish. Adventurous eaters can sample different heat levels through their famous ‘Tender Sampler’ that includes pieces at varying intensities.
5. 400 Degrees Hot Chicken – Nashville
Owner Aqui Hines named her restaurant after her hottest option, but don’t worry! The ‘0 Degrees’ chicken delivers spectacular flavor without any burn. Loyal customers praise its perfect balance of seasonings.
Aqui learned the craft from her aunt who worked at Prince’s. Her commitment to quality shows in every juicy bite, regardless of heat level. Weekend lines often stretch out the door!
6. Party Fowl – Nashville
Feeling adventurous but cautious? Party Fowl’s ‘Southern Fried’ option skips the heat while delivering incredible flavor. Chef Bart Pickens uses a proprietary blend of 20+ spices even in the mildest version.
Families appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere and approachable menu. Beyond traditional presentations, try their unique hot chicken poutine or hot chicken tacos, available at any heat level.
7. Hot Chicken Takeover – Nashville
Mild-minded chicken lovers find paradise with ‘Cold’ chicken that’s anything but boring. Perfectly crispy exterior gives way to juicy, flavorful meat that proves spice isn’t everything.
Founded as a social enterprise, this spot employs individuals facing barriers to employment. Communal seating encourages conversation among strangers who quickly bond over exceptional chicken, regardless of heat preference.
8. The Hen House – Memphis
Memphis joins the hot chicken scene with The Hen House’s ‘No Heat’ option that rivals Nashville originals. Secret marinade keeps chicken moist while developing complex flavors without any burn.
Family recipes passed down three generations create distinctively Memphis touches. Blues music fills the air while diners enjoy perfectly crispy chicken. Weekend brunch features their famous chicken atop Belgian waffles.
9. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Memphis
Whispers around Memphis suggest Gus’s secret recipe includes just enough cayenne to enhance flavor without overwhelming heat. First-timers often exclaim surprise at how approachable this legendary chicken tastes.
Crispy, thin crust yields to juicy meat that’s been perfected since 1953. Southern hospitality shines through with every order. Celebrity fans include numerous Food Network stars who praise its balanced profile.
10. Big Shakes Hot Chicken – Chattanooga
Celebrity chef Shaquille Johnson (aka Big Shake) crafts ‘Original’ chicken with zero heat that still delivers maximum flavor. Brining process ensures juiciness while his special flour blend creates the perfect crunch.
Featured on Shark Tank, this spot gained fame for converting spice-averse diners. Unique offerings include chicken-topped mac and cheese. Regulars swear the housemade ranch dressing complements even the mildest option.
11. King’s Hot Chicken – Nashville
Neighborhood gem offers ‘Plain’ chicken that locals argue delivers more flavor than competitors’ spicy versions. Old-school preparation includes overnight buttermilk bath that tenderizes meat while infusing subtle flavors.
Cash-only establishment hasn’t changed recipes since 1978. Minimal decor keeps focus on exceptional food. Multi-generational families gather weekly for chicken that everyone from toddlers to grandparents can enjoy.
12. Chick N Pickle – Knoxville
Knoxville’s newest chicken destination offers ‘Tennessee Mild’ that captures Nashville flavor without intimidating heat. Locally-sourced chicken gets brined for 24 hours before frying to perfect crispness.
Unique pickleball courts adjacent to dining area make this spot especially family-friendly. House-made pickles complement every order. Weekend chicken-and-waffle specials feature local maple syrup and whipped butter.
13. Southern Hot Chicken – Knoxville
Mountain city folks flock to Southern Hot Chicken for ‘Country Style’ that skips the heat entirely. Farm-to-table approach means chicken arrives fresh daily from nearby Grainger County farms.
Homestyle sides like mashed potatoes and biscuits complement perfectly seasoned chicken. Appalachian influence appears in unique offerings like chicken topped with sorghum drizzle. Outdoor seating provides stunning Smoky Mountain views.
