Having pickles on the side is standard for aficionados of Nashville-style hot chicken, and there's a solid reason for this combo.

The pairing of pickles and spicy chicken is intentional and elevates each ingredient's complexity and flavor layers.

Hot chicken is marinated in a brine and then brushed with a sauce filled with fiery spices. Without pickles, your mouth might be overwhelmed by the heat.

The sugar and vinegar in brine help pickles tone down the chicken's heat. Many hot chicken recipes incorporate pickle juice, which is another reason pickles complement the dish.