Which ingredient gives classic Nashville hot chicken much of its characteristic heat?

Cayenne pepper gives classic Nashville hot chicken much of its characteristic heat.

Nashville hot chicken is usually fried before being brushed or dipped in a spicy oil-based paste. Cayenne pepper is the defining source of heat in many traditional and modern versions, although recipes can include other chiles and spices.

The coating often contains fat, paprika, sugar, and seasonings in addition to cayenne. Restaurants vary the amount to create several heat levels, from mild to extremely hot.

The dish is not defined simply by ordinary spicy fried chicken. Its recognizable style comes from the combination of fried chicken, a cayenne-forward coating, and traditional service with white bread and pickles.