THE DISH: Hot Chicken THE RESTAURANT: Hattie B's, Nashville, Tenn. THE CHEF: John Lasater

Q AWhile travelling through Nashville, Tenn., I stopped at Hattie B’s for the Hot Chicken. I didn’t think you could pack that much heat into fried chicken and still have it taste so delicious! I’d kill for the recipe. – JAMES, Winnipeg

Hattie B’s famous Hot Chicken is a must when visiting Nashville. The menu includes spice levels ranging from “mild” and “medium” to “damn hot” and “shut the cluck up!” The key to this recipe is a double breading that makes a nice crispy skin, and using the spicy cooking oil to baste the chicken before serving.