The 50 Best Spots to Find Fried Chicken in the U.S.

Experience the epitome of Nashville hot chicken at Eugene’s in Birmingham. They offer four levels of heat: mild, hot, damn hot, and stupid hot. The spicy, slightly sweet blend of cayenne-forward spices coats your choice of tenders, wings, or pieces.

Don’t miss out on the dark meat quarter-bird seasoned to hot damn, served with collards and fried pickled okra. The perfect balance of heat and flavor will leave you craving more.

Since 1955, Lucky Wishbone has been the go-to place for the best fried chicken in Anchorage, Alaska. Their pan-fried chicken will transport you back to your grandmother’s kitchen with its delicious flavor and medley of aromas.

For a satisfying feast, order the Pop meal and enjoy five pieces of their mouthwatering pan-fried chicken along with something to wash it all down. With consistently outstanding reviews, you can confidently indulge in a meal at Lucky Wishbone.

The restaurant’s name is a clever play on words, combining the owner’s name, Bobby, with the beloved BBQ abbreviation. While Bobby-Q is known for its exceptional barbecue, locals in Arizona rave about their Southern Fried Chicken.

This boneless fried chicken topped with generous amounts of gravy is considered the finest in the entire state. With three locations in Arizona, including Phoenix and Mesa, Bobby-Q is a must-visit for chicken lovers seeking a taste of the South.

Prepare to become a lifelong fan of Monte Ne Inn Chicken Restaurant in Rogers, Arkansas. The deep brown crust on their fried chicken is simply irresistible. Each bite of tender meat will elevate your dining experience to new heights.

With a rich history dating back four decades and consistently high ratings, this Northwest Arkansas gem is a must-try. The restaurant’s rustic ambiance and friendly staff create a cozy atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.

Thanks to the brilliant N’Gina Guyton, general manager of South Sacramento, Californians get to savor the best of Southern cuisine. With a creative twist on classic Californian cuisine, this eatery captures the essence of Sacramento’s vibrant food scene.

While their menu offers a variety of tempting dishes, their fried chicken steals the spotlight. It’s incredibly tender and finger-lickin’ good. When it comes to fried chicken in California, you won’t find any better than South.

Noble Riot, a nerdy and funky bar turned comfort food haven, is the place to be in Denver. They recently added fried chicken to their menu, creating a delightful combo of “classy with trashy,” as co-owner Troy Bowen puts it. Their juicy chicken is breaded in a gluten-free cornstarch and rice flour mix that delivers an unfailingly crunchy bite.

Don’t miss out on their special combos on days like Valentine’s Day, and make sure to pair your bucket of chicken with the sommelier’s recommendation.

For the finest fried chicken in Connecticut, look no further than Black-Eyed Sally’s Southern Kitchen & Bar in Hartford. Their award-winning menu offers multiple fried chicken options. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the super spicy Nashville Hot Chicken, served with bleu cheese dressing, to cool things down.

For those with milder tastes, the Southern Fried Chicken, accompanied by buttermilk, collard greens, and mac and cheese, is a delicious choice for anybody.

Craving exceptional fried chicken in Delaware? Kick n’ Chicken has got you covered. Their secret lies in using fresh, never frozen birds, and they don’t start frying until you place your order. The result is a remarkable freshness that shines through with every bite.

With three locations in Lewes, Long Neck, and Milford, Kick n’ Chicken is a must-visit for chicken enthusiasts. It’s not just about the chicken — they also offer tasty sides like mac ‘n cheese and loaded fries to complete your meal.

Discover the pinnacle of fried chicken in Florida at The Regional, a West Palm Beach restaurant led by renowned chef Lindsay Autry. Their Fried Chicken Thighs, brined in sweet tea, will capture your heart and taste buds.

If you’re feeding a group, opt for the Fried Chicken Bucket, complete with 12 pieces of chicken, coleslaw, and bread and butter pickles. Bring home this bucket of joy and become the hero of your household.

Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room in Savannah, Georgia, has been delighting customers since 1943. This historic establishment is famous for serving the best fried chicken in the entire state. While their menu is relatively limited, the chicken takes center stage, and its incredible taste speaks for itself.

Get ready to indulge in delectable dishes, like fried chicken, collard greens, mac ‘n cheese, and cornbread, that’ll make your taste buds sing.

If you’re in Hawaii and craving fried chicken with a twist, head over to Shiro’s Saimin Haven in Aiea. This unique eatery combines different culinary influences, including Japanese, American, Korean, and Hawaiian. Their Shiro’s Original Crispy Chicken is a must-try. It’s fried to perfection and has received rave reviews from happy customers.

For a delightful fusion of flavors, enjoy their fried chicken alongside some delicious sushi. Don’t miss their mouthwatering side dishes, like crispy gyoza or savory loco moco, for the ultimate Hawaiian feast.

When you’re in Idaho and in search of the best fried chicken, make your way to Honey Eatery and Social Club in Coeur d’Alene. This establishment is known for its Honey Fried Chicken, which is fried twice to achieve the perfect crispiness. Served with potato salad, coleslaw, jalapenos, and local honey, this chicken has a delightful sweet and savory flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

From mouthwatering burgers to elegant seafood dishes, Honey Eatery has something to satisfy every palate.

For over 30 years, Evanston Chicken Shack in Evanston, Illinois, has been serving award-winning fried chicken. They take pride in hand-battering all their made-to-order chicken and never using warmers, ensuring the freshest and most delicious taste. While they also offer fried fish, their fried chicken is what they’re truly famous for.

Their chicken sandwiches and wraps are a must-try, combining juicy chicken with delicious toppings. Generous portions and affordable prices make the Evanston Chicken Shack a go-to spot for comfort food lovers.

In Southeastern Indiana, fried chicken holds a special place in the hearts of locals. If you’re in the area, stop by Fireside Inn in Greensburg. It’s the first and best stop on the Chicken Trail, which connects 40 fried chicken restaurants in the area.

Fireside Inn is renowned for its exceptional fried chicken, and patrons insist it’s the best anywhere. Experience the love for fried chicken that permeates this region by indulging in a meal at Fireside Inn.

When it comes to fried chicken in Iowa, Bubba in Des Moines takes the crown. Their Chicken & Waffles dish is a popular choice, featuring buttermilk fried chicken and a rice waffle served with honey butter. The combination of crispy chicken, fluffy waffle, and sweet butter creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Another fantastic option is the Chicken & Bacon Wrap, where fried chicken, bacon, cheese, tomato, lettuce, and onion are wrapped in a grilled tortilla. Bubba is a must-visit for fried chicken enthusiasts in Iowa.

Step back in time to 1857 at Hays House Restaurant in Council Grove, Kansas. As the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River, this historic establishment is known for its mouth-watering fried chicken.

One of their standout specialties is chicken fried steak, a true Kansas classic that will leave you craving more. Don’t miss the opportunity to try their stupendous desserts, either. Hays House Restaurant has the sugar power to quench any sweet tooth in America.

Established in a charming historic inn, the Merrick Inn offers a dining experience that perfectly blends tradition and sophistication. With over four decades of serving satisfied customers, this establishment has earned a stellar reputation.

Their Southern Fried Chicken, breaded by hand and available with dark or white meat, is a standout dish. Treat yourself to a meal at Merrick Inn and savor the flavor of their expertly prepared fried chicken.

In New Orleans, Louisiana, Willie Mae’s Scotch House is the go-to spot for the best fried chicken. Established in 1957, this iconic restaurant offers The Willie Mae, a fried chicken breast served with sides of honey, pickles, and purple cabbage with slaw sauce.

Don’t forget to pair your chicken with classic Southern sides like buttery cornbread and savory collard greens. The cozy and unassuming atmosphere of Willie Mae’s just adds to its charm.

If you find yourself in Portland, Maine, make sure to visit Figgy’s Takeout for some outstanding fried chicken. Their skillet-fried chicken is made from antibiotic-free and cage-free birds, ensuring high quality and delicious taste. Opt for the Whole Bird, which includes two breasts, two drumsticks, two thighs, and a pair of buttermilk biscuits.

Figgy’s innovative menu also features creative sides like loaded tater tots and mac ‘n’ cheese with a delectable twist. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Figgy’s will satisfy your cravings for tasty, satisfying meals.

For a hip and modern dining experience in Baltimore, Maryland, head to The Food Market. While their menu offers a wide range of dishes, their Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Breasts stand out. Served with liquid cornbread, bacon-flavored greens, hot honey, and gumbo gravy, this fried chicken dish is a true culinary delight.

Experience the fantastic flavors and unique presentations at The Food Market in Baltimore. Just make sure to save room for dessert, as The Food Market’s sweet treats are the perfect way to end your meal.

For spectacular fried chicken in Massachusetts, Brassica Kitchen + Cafe in Boston is the place to go. Whether you visit for brunch, lunch, or dinner, they have delicious options to satisfy your cravings.

For brunch, try their Chicken & Waffles with hot sauce for a glorious combination. During lunch, their Crispy Chicken Sandwich with pickled green tomato and honey is a must-try. And for dinner, go for the B.K. Fried Chicken, which receives glowing reviews. No matter the time of day, Brassica Kitchen + Cafe offers a delightful fried chicken experience.

Green Dot Stables has two locations in Michigan, one in Detroit and one in Lansing. This highly regarded eatery is known for its scrumptious sliders, including its Fried Chicken slider. The slider features a crispy filet of fried chicken doused with maple syrup, creating a fantastic balance of flavors.

If you enjoy chicken and waffles, you’ll love these sliders. Green Dot Stables also offers $3 mixed drinks and a wide selection of cool beverages to accompany your meal.

Brass Rail in Grandy, Minnesota, has a long history of serving the best fried chicken in the state. Established in 1969, this restaurant’s fried chicken is broasted, which combines the best of deep frying and pressure cooking. The result is a flavorful and juicy chicken that keeps customers coming back for more.

Despite its location in a tiny town with a population of fewer than 100 people, Brass Rail’s fried chicken reputation stands tall.

For the choicest fried chicken in Mississippi, head to the Old Country Store in Lorman. This legendary eatery has gained recognition through features on the Travel Channel and the Food Network, and its owner, Arthur Davis, claims to have the best fried chicken in the world.

The Old Country Store’s fried chicken has received high praise from both locals and celebrity chef Alton Brown, solidifying its reputation as the absolute best in the state.

Grace Meat + Three is renowned in St. Louis, Missouri, for its exceptional fried chicken. Their Pick Rick’s Famous Fried Chicken is a standout dish that comes with house pickles. You can choose between the Original or Hot and Spicy options, with the latter offering an extra kick of heat.

Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or simply looking for a satisfying meal, Grace Meat + Three delivers flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Roost Fried Chicken in Bozeman, Montana, lives up to its name by serving some of the best fried chicken around. With accolades from sources like the Los Angeles Times and the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, this restaurant is gaining a reputation worth experiencing.

Their Southern Fried Tasty Chicken comes in Classic Southern, Nashville Hot, or Sweet Heat variations, offering a range of flavors to suit your preference. No matter which style you choose, you’re sure to be thrilled with your meal at Roost Fried Chicken.

Big Mama’s Kitchen & Catering, located in Omaha, Nebraska, may not be the easiest eatery to find, but it’s well worth the effort. Housed inside an old school cafeteria, Big Mama’s offers a variety of dishes ranging from traditional American to soul food.

Their oven-fried chicken stands out as a must-try item on the menu. This widely beloved restaurant has been featured on television and continues to impress customers with its flavorful and satisfying dishes.

While indulging in the delights of Las Vegas, take a break and visit The Black Sheep for some of the best fried chicken in the city. This unique restaurant combines Vietnamese and American comfort food, offering a fusion of flavors.

Their Black Sheep Hot Chicken is a standout dish featuring spicy fried chicken served on honey toast with honey mustard seed, pickled Japanese cucumber, and green onion. The Black Sheep provides a one-of-a-kind fried chicken experience in Las Vegas.

For the best fried chicken in New Hampshire, make your way to Puritan Backroom in Manchester. This family-owned eatery has been serving delicious food since 1917. The Fried Chicken Tenders at Puritan Backroom are outstanding and available in various flavors such as spicy, buffalo, or coconut.

However, sticking to the original flavor is highly recommended, as the tenders are simply outstanding. For those with bigger appetites, the Fried Chicken Tenders Parmigiana, served over ziti or spaghetti, is an excellent choice.

When it comes to delicious fried chicken in New Jersey, Treesy’s Soul Food Cafe in Turnersville is the place to be. While they offer several options, Linda’s Fried Chicken is a standout choice. The crispy skin adds a memorable texture, and the flavor will leave you craving more.

Treesy’s Soul Food Cafe has gained a loyal following and receives great reviews from satisfied customers. Don’t forget to save room for their homemade desserts, like sweet potato pie or peach cobbler, for a sweet ending to your meal.

Loyal Hound is number one when it comes to the ultimate fried chicken restaurants in New Mexico. Located in Sante Fe, their Southern Fried Chicken is both yummy and inventive. You get boneless thighs atop a buttermilk chive waffle, along with green chile apple slaw and maple syrup that is pleasantly spicy.

If you want to turn up the heat even more, get the spectacular Spicy Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich — it features fried chicken that’s been dipped in hot sauce and then topped with white barbecue sauce.

For fried chicken that’s the absolute best in New York, head straight to Bobwhite Counter. This Manhattan eatery has only been around since 2012, but they’ve quickly grown to become the place to be if you want the best fried chicken in the Big Apple.

Whether you want your fried chicken in a wrap, in a sandwich, in a biscuit, or flavored with buffalo or barbecue sauce, you can find those options on Bobwhite Counter’s lengthy menu.

For more than 60 years, generations of the Tapp family have been serving their Durham neighbors at the Chicken Hut, where customers arrive for homestyle cooking before the doors even open. The celebrated chicken is fried to order, arriving at the table piping hot and perfectly seasoned, with a shatteringly crisp crust, served with a roll for mopping up the liquid gold that sheds off every bite.

The restaurant’s rotating daily specials, like smothered pork chops, chicken and dumplings, and chitterlings, are big draws, too.

Brew Bird is a super cool restaurant located in Fargo, North Dakota. They have the best fried chicken in the state, and their chicken tenders live up to the hype. Favorites on their menu, beyond their unbelievable tenders, include the Hot as Cluck sandwich that features fried chicken that has been bathed in habanero hot sauce and topped with flavorful white barbecue sauce.

For a meatless option, their Cauliflower Wings are surprisingly great and widely recommended by loyal patrons.

The Barberton chicken style has been featured on the Food Network and on the pages of Saveur. Serbian immigrants Smilka and Mike Topalsky introduced a culinary tradition that earned the town the title “Fried Chicken Capital of the World.”

Young Amish-raised poultry is dry-brined overnight in salt before getting dipped in egg wash, lightly breaded, and fried to a deep amber in lard. Wings, breasts, legs, and thighs all get the treatment, as do the backs, here called chicken ribs. The non-negotiable side includes “hot sauce,” a Serbian dish.

Eischen’s Bar has been around forever, but they didn’t start serving their mind-blowing fried chicken until the ’60s. Now, this Oklahoma bar is famous for having the best fried chicken in the state. Their menu is short and sweet because they focus on quality, not quantity.

Don’t miss their Whole Fried Chicken with all the fixings or their incredible fried okra. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff add to the charm of this must-visit establishment.

In Thailand, street vendors sell chicken covered in fried shallots and paired with sticky rice. In Portland, Earl and Alan give their own twist to this tasty treat. They marinate free-range chicken in a flavorful blend before coating it in cornstarch and rice flour. Thinly sliced shallots add a crispy touch as the chicken fries to perfection.

But it’s not just about the chicken — Hat Yai nails the combo plates with delicious curry and spicy pickles. It’s Portland’s culinary gem!

Chef Marcie and Valerie have created a gem in Philadelphia called Bud & Marilyn’s. It’s the go-to spot for the best fried chicken in Pennsylvania. Their Nashville Hot Fried Chicken is a showstopper, with half a chicken, potato bread, scallion ranch, pickles, and a fiery dip.

Prepare to be wowed. If spice isn’t your thing, try Marilyn’s Fried Chicken, served with honey butter, pickles, and a biscuit. It’s a comfort food dream come true!

Winner Winner proudly serves up some of the finest fried chicken north of the Mason-Dixon line. It’s hailed as fried chicken heaven, and that’s no exaggeration. Whether you go for their combo platters or buckets, you’ll be overjoyed with their fantastic fried chicken.

Oh, and even if you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, give theirs a shot — they might just change your mind! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip to Newport isn’t complete without indulging in the fried chicken paradise of Winner Winner.

Is it breakfast? Is it lunch? How about a late-night snack? Chicken and waffles at Kiki’s defy categorization. Indulge in four fried wings or two fried breasts served with a warm, fluffy Belgian waffle.

They even offer waffle flavors like blueberry, walnut, or sweet potato. For a truly epic feast, upgrade to the Mama B’s version with a variety of chicken pieces. Don’t worry about the mess — it’s worth it!

The Keg, located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, may sound like a drink lover’s paradise, but it’s all about their amazing deep-fried chicken. From two pieces to a hundred, you can order exactly how much chicken you need to satisfy your hunger. Talk about a restaurant that understands people’s bellies.

And don’t forget their tasty sides like potato wedges and baked beans. It’s South Dakota’s go-to spot for fried chicken!

Long before Nashville was known for music, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack was quietly serving up insanely spicy chicken. Founder Thornton Prince crafted a simple yet fiery dish — fried chicken slathered in cayenne paste, served on white bread with a pickle to tame the heat.

Wings, breasts, legs, tenders — you name it, they’re all fantastic vehicles for spice, ranging from mild to blisteringly hot. Prince’s remains a Nashville icon, proudly owned by the Prince family, and a spicy must-try!

When it comes to the best fried chicken joints in Texas, Frenchy’s Chicken takes the crown. Originally from New Orleans, this restaurant has become synonymous with mouthwatering fried chicken. Frenchy’s Chicken may not have started with fried chicken on the menu, but now it’s their star attraction.

Grab one of their Family Boxes and experience the wide smiles it brings to your dinner table. Once you taste their chicken, you’ll know why it’s a Texan favorite!

Looking for the best fried chicken dinner in Utah? Look no further than Pretty Bird in Salt Lake City. This place is renowned for its tongue-tingling spicy fried chicken that keeps customers raving. Their menu lets you choose your preferred spiciness level, ranging from mild to hot.

Even the non-spicy option is incredibly delicious, but don’t miss out on the fiery glory of their spicier versions! Pretty Bird brings the heat to Salt Lake City with their fried chicken that’s as bold and unforgettable as the Utah landscape.

If you’re searching for the ultimate fried chicken in Vermont, make your way to Nectar’s — but remember, they only serve it on Fridays. Trust us, though, the wait and planning will be well worth it once you sink your teeth into their unbelievable fried chicken.

Located on Main Street in Burlington, Nectar’s is not just about the food — they’re known for their lively live music, too! And as we all know, music and chicken go very well together.

When it comes to fried chicken in Virginia, Mama J’s in Richmond takes the crown. Their fried chicken is so exceptional that it’s hard to find a better option in the city.

At Mama J’s, you have the choice between white meat or dark meat when ordering their delectable fried chicken. Plus, you can select between dinner rolls or corn muffins to accompany your meal. Customers consistently rave about the outstanding service and, of course, the incredible food at this beloved Virginia eatery.

Located just one block away from the renowned 9:30 Club, Roy Boys in Shaw, Washington D.C., is a lively fried chicken joint that has catered to the nightlife scene since 2019. With a roll-up garage window, neon lights, and rap music playing, this bar serves lip-smacking fried chicken on silver platters.

Their menu offers both classic options and creative dishes like the Drop It Like It’s Hot sandwich — a boneless Nashville spice-blasted chicken topped with bread and butter pickles and buttermilk ranch.

Olde Country Diner in Martinsburg, West Virginia, is a highly acclaimed restaurant that serves delicious fried chicken. Customers can’t stop talking about the quality of their fried chicken, which is a standout item on their menu and can be paired with two vegetable sides.

Other notable options include the Chicken Tenders and the Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich. Located about 90 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., Olde Country Diner is a gem for fried chicken enthusiasts.

In Madison, Wisconsin, the Bassett Street Brunch Club serves the best fried chicken in the state as an appetizer called “Chicken & A Donut.” This magical dish combines multiple pieces of fried chicken with a glazed donut, creating a heavenly fusion of savory and sweet flavors.

The fried chicken at Bassett Street Brunch Club has earned strong reviews, and once you try it, you’ll understand why this hotspot is renowned for its fried chicken offerings.

Located in Pinedale, Wyoming, Pitchfork Fondue has gained a reputation for serving what some claim to be the best fried chicken in the nation. Specializing in authentic Western cookouts, Pitchfork Fondue has even been featured on the Cooking Channel. While their catering business operates year-round, the restaurant is only open during the summer months when the weather is favorable.

Though it may require some extra effort to experience their exceptional fried chicken, many believe it’s well worth it to taste what could potentially be America’s finest fried chicken.