Embark on a delightful culinary journey where crispy, flavorful fried chicken takes center stage. From the sun-kissed shores of California to the bustling streets of New York, each state’s unique flavor profile shines through in its best fried chicken joint. Join me as we discover the sizzling secrets and mouth-watering delights that make each place a must-visit.
1. Alabama: Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Q
At Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama, the fried chicken is an irresistible symphony of flavors. Begin your meal with the tantalizing aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken sizzling to a golden crisp.
Known for its legendary white sauce, this joint combines tangy and savory notes that dance on your palate. Moreover, the friendly atmosphere and Southern charm make it a beloved destination. Whether a local or a traveler, a visit here offers a taste of Alabama’s rich culinary heritage.
2. Alaska: Lucky Wishbone
In Anchorage, Alaska’s Lucky Wishbone, the fried chicken experience is nothing short of memorable. The crispy coating, infused with a blend of secret spices, locks in the juiciness of the meat.
As you bite into a piece, the satisfying crunch gives way to tender, succulent flavors. Furthermore, the retro diner atmosphere, complete with neon lights and friendly service, evokes a sense of nostalgia. This establishment turns a simple meal into a cherished Alaskan tradition.
3. Arizona: Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles
This place offers a delightful twist on traditional fried chicken. Pairing crispy chicken with fluffy waffles creates a unique, satisfying meal.
The harmonious blend of savory and sweet is elevated by a drizzle of maple syrup. Inside, a lively ambiance, characterized by vibrant decor and friendly chatter, enhances the dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this spot is essential for fans of innovative Southern cuisine.
4. Arkansas: Monte Ne Inn Chicken
In Rogers, Arkansas, Monte Ne Inn Chicken serves fried chicken that feels like a warm hug from home. The chicken, fried to perfection, boasts a crispy, golden exterior and moist, flavorful interior. Complemented by classic Southern sides, each meal offers a wholesome dining experience.
Moreover, the cozy, rustic setting invites guests to relax and enjoy the simplicity of good food. This inn stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of Southern hospitality and cuisine.
5. California: Howlin’ Ray’s
Howlin’ Ray’s in Los Angeles, California, redefines fried chicken with a spicy kick that invigorates the senses. Each piece, coated in a fiery blend of spices, delivers a punch of heat balanced by its juicy, tender meat.
The vibrant, bustling atmosphere, complete with lines of eager patrons, adds to its appeal. Moreover, the passionate team behind the counter shares their love for flavor and quality. This hotspot is a must-visit for those seeking an adventurous fried chicken experience.
6. Colorado: The Post Brewing Co.
In a stunning Lafayette place, Colorado, The Post Brewing Co. brings together two beloved things: craft beer and fried chicken. The chicken, fried to a crispy perfection, complements their refreshing brews. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by succulent flavors.
Additionally, the rustic setting, with mountain views and a warm ambiance, enhances the relaxation. Whether you’re savoring a solo meal or sharing with friends, this spot captures the essence of Colorado’s laid-back yet adventurous spirit.
7. Connecticut: Drumstik Bar-B-Q
In Bridgeport, Connecticut, Drumstik Bar-B-Q offers a fried chicken experience that feels like a hidden gem. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, retains its juiciness and flavor.
Each bite envelops your taste buds in a delightful combination of crispy and tender textures. Furthermore, the cozy setting, with its welcoming staff and casual vibe, invites you to linger. This spot transforms a simple meal into a memorable dining adventure, capturing the charm of New England hospitality.
8. Delaware: Lettie’s Kitchen
Lettie’s Kitchen in Hockessin, Delaware, serves fried chicken that delights with every bite. The succulent meat, encased in a crispy shell, offers a burst of flavor. This family-run establishment exudes warmth and friendliness, making each visit special.
Additionally, the casual setting and attentive service create a welcoming environment. Lettie’s Kitchen provides a taste of genuine Delaware comfort food.
9. Florida: Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
Have you ever tried a dish that elevates fried chicken to an art form? The chicken, perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp, is complemented by a medley of Southern sides. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
The chic, modern setting, paired with a lively atmosphere, creates a memorable dining experience. Whether savoring a solo meal or sharing with friends, Yardbird captures the essence of Southern hospitality in a vibrant urban setting.
10. Georgia: Mary Mac’s Tea Room
It is not lightly said that this place is a beloved institution where fried chicken takes center stage. The chicken, renowned for its flavorful seasoning and crispy coating, delights with every bite. Inside, the traditional decor and warm ambiance evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
Additionally, the attentive service and welcoming staff make each visit feel special. Mary Mac’s is more than a restaurant; it’s a cherished gathering place celebrating the heart and soul of Southern cuisine.
11. Hawaii: Rainbow Drive-In
At Rainbow Drive-In in Honolulu, Hawaii, the fried chicken offers a taste of paradise. The golden, crispy coating encases juicy, tender meat that bursts with flavor.
This local favorite, known for its generous portions and casual vibe, is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Furthermore, the tropical decor and scenic views create a laid-back dining experience.
12. Idaho: Boise Fry Company
Boise Fry Company in Boise, Idaho, combines fried chicken with its renowned fries for a delightful meal. The chicken, fried to a crispy perfection, pairs wonderfully with their unique selection of fries. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent flavors.
The casual, rustic setting, complete with friendly service, enhances the dining experience. Whether a local or a visitor, Boise Fry Company offers a taste of Idaho’s unique culinary flair, making it a must-visit spot.
13. Illinois: Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
This delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. The spicy coating, infused with a secret blend of spices, offers a flavorful kick with each bite. Known for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this spot attracts both locals and tourists.
The lively atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. Gus’s is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
14. Indiana: Maxine’s Chicken and Waffles
You can enjoy a delightful blend of flavors at Maxine’s Chicken and Waffles in Indianapolis, Indiana. The crispy fried chicken, paired with fluffy waffles, creates a satisfying meal. It is a delightful combination of savory and sweet, elevated by a drizzle of maple syrup.
The cozy setting, complete with rustic decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. This spot captures the essence of comfort food, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
15. Iowa: Bubba
Bubba offers a contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken in Des Moines, Iowa. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, retains its juiciness and flavor. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides.
Stylish decor and lively atmosphere create a vibrant dining experience. Whether stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Bubba provides a taste of Iowa’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
16. Kansas: Stroud’s
In Kansas City, Kansas, Stroud’s is renowned for its homestyle fried chicken. Fried to a crispy perfection, it offers a comforting taste of home. Get a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat.
The rustic setting, complete with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, enhances the dining experience. Stroud’s captures the essence of Kansas hospitality and cuisine, making it a beloved destination for fried chicken enthusiasts.
17. Kentucky: Indy’s
Indy’s in Louisville, Kentucky, offers a fried chicken experience that feels like a cherished tradition. Seasoned with a blend of spices and fried to a golden crisp, it delights with every bite. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent, flavorful meat.
The classic diner setting, complete with traditional decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Indy’s stands as a testament to Kentucky’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
18. Louisiana: Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Willie Mae’s Scotch House offers a fried chicken experience steeped in history and flavor in New Orleans, Louisiana. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, boasts a juicy, tender interior. Each bite is a delightful combination of crispy and succulent textures, complemented by a medley of flavorful sides.
With the cozy setting, characterized by vibrant decor and friendly service, it completely enhances the dining experience. This spot is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of New Orleans’ culinary legacy.
19. Maine: Figgy’s Takeout & Catering
In Portland, Maine, Figgy’s Takeout & Catering offers a fried chicken experience that delights with every bite. Discover a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat. The quaint setting, complete with charming decor and friendly service, invites guests to linger. Whether a local or a visitor, Figgy’s captures the essence of Maine’s culinary charm, making it a must-visit spot.
20. Maryland: Royal Farms
A convenient and delicious fried chicken experience awaits you at Royal Farms in Baltimore, Maryland. The chicken, fried to a crispy perfection, boasts a juicy, tender interior. Each piece delivers a delightful combination of flavors, complemented by a variety of sides. The casual setting, characterized by friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, enhances the dining experience. Whether stopping by for a quick meal or a leisurely dining experience, Royal Farms provides a taste of Maryland’s culinary convenience.
21. Massachusetts: Highland Fried
A contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken is served at Highland Fried in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The stylish decor and lively atmosphere create a vibrant dining experience. If your intention is stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Highland Fried provides a taste of Massachusetts’ modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
22. Michigan: Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth
A fried chicken experience steeped in tradition awaits at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth in Frankenmuth, Michigan. This dish delights with every bite. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent, flavorful meat. The classic setting, complete with traditional decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Zehnder’s stands as a testament to Michigan’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
23. Minnesota: Revival
In Minneapolis, Minnesota, Revival delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. The spicy coating, infused with a secret blend of spices, offers a flavorful kick with each bite. Known for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this spot attracts both locals and tourists. Even more, the lively atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. Revival is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
24. Mississippi: Two Sister’s Kitchen
Two Sister’s Kitchen in Jackson, Mississippi, offers a fried chicken experience that feels like a cherished tradition. The chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and fried to a golden crisp, delights with every bite. The classic diner setting, complete with traditional decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Two Sister’s stands as a testament to Mississippi’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
25. Missouri: Hodak’s
In St. Louis, Missouri, Hodak’s offers a fried chicken experience that’s both classic and delicious. Each bite offers a delightful combination of crispy and tender textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides. What is even more great about this place is the atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. Hodak’s is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of St. Louis’ culinary charm.
26. Montana: Roost Fried Chicken
A convenient and delicious experience awaits at Time Out Chicken in Lincoln, Nebraska. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat. The cozy setting, complete with rustic decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Roost stands as a testament to Montana’s laid-back yet adventurous spirit, making it a must-visit spot.
27. Nebraska: Time Out Chicken
In Lincoln, Nebraska, Time Out Chicken offers a fried chicken experience that’s both convenient and delicious. The chicken, fried to a crispy perfection, boasts a juicy, tender interior. Every bite delivers a delightful combination of flavors, complemented by a variety of sides. The casual setting, characterized by friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, enhances the dining experience. Whether stopping by for a quick meal or a leisurely dining experience, Time Out Chicken provides a taste of Nebraska’s culinary convenience.
28. Nevada: Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken
In Las Vegas, Nevada, Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken offers a contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, retains its juiciness and flavor. With each and every bite, you experience a delightful contrast of textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides.
The stylish decor and lively atmosphere create a vibrant dining experience. Blue Ribbon provides a taste of Nevada’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
29. New Hampshire: The Barley House
Fried to a golden crisp, the chicken retains its juiciness and flavor. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides. The stylish decor and lively atmosphere create a vibrant dining experience. How about stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner? The Barley House provides a taste of New Hampshire’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
30. New Jersey: The Chicken or the Egg
In Beach Haven, New Jersey, The Chicken or the Egg offers a fried chicken experience that’s both classic and delicious. Each bite offers a delicious combination of crispy and tender textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides.
The lively atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. The Chicken or the Egg is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of New Jersey’s culinary charm.
31. New Mexico: Nexus Brewery
Nexus Brewery in Albuquerque, New Mexico, brings together two beloved things: craft beer and fried chicken. Crisp and perfectly fried, the chicken pairs beautifully with their refreshing brews. Every bite provides a delightful crunch, followed by juicy, flavorful meat.
Additionally, the rustic setting, with mountain views and a warm ambiance, enhances the relaxation. Whether you’re savoring a solo meal or sharing with friends, this spot captures the essence of New Mexico’s laid-back yet adventurous spirit.
32. New York: Blue Ribbon Brasserie
Blue Ribbon Brasserie in New York City offers a contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, retains its juiciness and flavor. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides.
The unique atmosphere creates a vibrant dining experience. Whether stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Blue Ribbon provides a taste of New York’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
33. North Dakota: Kroll’s Diner
A fried chicken experience that feels like a cherished tradition awaits at Kroll’s Diner in Bismarck, North Dakota. The chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and fried to a golden crisp, delights with every bite. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent, flavorful meat. The classic diner setting, complete with traditional decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Kroll’s stands as a testament to North Dakota’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
34. The Crack Shack – San Diego, California
Nestled in the heart of San Diego, The Crack Shack is a vibrant eatery known for its gourmet fried chicken. With a playful atmosphere and a menu crafted by renowned chefs, this spot elevates the fried chicken experience. Guests can enjoy an array of sides and sauces that perfectly complement the main dish.
The Crack Shack offers a delightful blend of flavors, with every piece of chicken seasoned to perfection. The outdoor seating area, adorned with charming lights, makes it a perfect spot for a casual dining experience. No matter a local or a tourist, The Crack Shack is a must-visit for fried chicken enthusiasts.
35. Ohio: Hot Chicken Takeover
In Columbus, Ohio, Hot Chicken Takeover delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. The spicy coating, infused with a secret blend of spices, offers a flavorful kick with each bite. Known for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this spot attracts both locals and tourists.
Furthermore, the lively atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. Hot Chicken Takeover is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
36. Oklahoma: Eischen’s Bar
In Okarche, Oklahoma, Eischen’s Bar offers a fried chicken experience that’s steeped in tradition. The chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and fried to a golden crisp, delights with every bite. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent, flavorful meat.
The rustic setting, complete with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Eischen’s stands as a testament to Oklahoma’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
37. Oregon: Pine State Biscuits
In Portland, Oregon, Pine State Biscuits offers a contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken. Golden and crispy, the chicken retains its juiciness and flavor. With a vibrant dining experience, Pine State Biscuits provides a taste of Oregon’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
38. Pennsylvania: Federal Donuts
Federal Donuts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers a delightful fusion of flavors. Each bite is a delightful combination of savory and sweet, elevated by a drizzle of maple syrup. The lively atmosphere, complete with vibrant decor and friendly service, enhances the dining experience.
This spot captures the essence of comfort food, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
39. Rhode Island: Bucktown
In Providence, Rhode Island, Bucktown offers a contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken. Inside of a restaurant is a dining experience. Whether stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Bucktown provides a taste of Rhode Island’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
40. South Carolina: Martha Lou’s Kitchen
This place offers a fried chicken experience that feels like a cherished tradition. The chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and fried to a golden crisp, delights with every bite. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent, flavorful meat.
The classic diner setting, complete with traditional decoration and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. Martha Lou’s stands as a testament to South Carolina’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
41. South Dakota: Bob’s Cafe
A comforting and delicious fried chicken experience awaits at Bob’s Cafe in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Fried to a golden crisp, the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by tender, savory meat. The cozy ambiance, with its rustic decoration and friendly service, makes it the perfect place to unwind. Bob’s Cafe embodies South Dakota’s relaxed yet spirited charm, making it an essential stop for any visitor.
42. Tennessee: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
In Nashville, Tennessee, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. The spicy coating, infused with a secret blend of spices, delivers a bold kick with every bite. The lively atmosphere, filled with friendly chatter and vibrant elements, adds to the overall dining experience. Hattie B’s is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
43. Texas: Gus’s Fried Chicken
In Austin, Texas, Gus’s Fried Chicken delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. The spicy coating, infused with a secret blend of spices, offers a flavorful kick with each bite.
This spot attracts both locals and tourists. Furthermore, the lively atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. Gus’s is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
44. Utah: Pretty Bird
The spicy coating, infused with a secret blend of spices, offers a flavorful kick with each bite. Known for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this spot attracts both locals and tourists. Furthermore, the lively atmosphere, characterized by friendly chatter and vibrant decor, enhances the dining experience. Pretty Bird is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
45. Vermont: Prohibition Pig
In Waterbury, Vermont, Prohibition Pig offers a contemporary twist on traditional fried chicken. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, retains its juiciness and flavor. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, complemented by a variety of flavorful sides.
The stylish decor and lively atmosphere create a vibrant dining experience. Whether stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Prohibition Pig provides a taste of Vermont’s modern culinary scene, making it a must-visit spot.
46. Virginia: The Coop
In Richmond, Virginia, The Coop delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. Famous for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this spot attracts both locals and tourists. Additionally, the vibrant and friendly chatter create a lively atmosphere that elevates the dining experience.
The Coop is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
47. Washington: Ezell’s Famous Chicken
In Seattle, Washington, Ezell’s Famous Chicken delivers a tantalizing fried chicken experience. Known for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this spot attracts both locals and tourists. Moreover, the vibrant decor and upbeat chatter create a lively atmosphere that truly enhances the dining experience. Ezell’s is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and community.
48. West Virginia: Tudor’s Biscuit World
Tudor’s Biscuit World in Charleston, West Virginia, offers a delightful fusion of flavors. The golden, crispy fried chicken, paired with soft, fluffy biscuits, creates a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory and sweet, complemented by a touch of maple syrup.
The inviting atmosphere, with its traditional decor and warm, welcoming service, encourages guests to relax and enjoy their time. This spot embodies the essence of comfort food, earning its place as a favorite destination for locals and travelers alike.
49. Wisconsin: The Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned in Madison, Wisconsin, offers a fried chicken experience that’s steeped in tradition. The chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and fried to a golden crisp, delights with every bite. Biting a piece delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent, flavorful meat.
The classic setting, complete with traditional decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. The Old Fashioned stands as a testament to Wisconsin’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit spot.
50. Wyoming: The Bird
In Jackson, Wyoming, The Bird offers a fried chicken experience that’s both comforting and delicious. The chicken, fried to a golden crisp, retains its juiciness and flavor. Delicious chicken delivers a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat.
The cozy setting, complete with rustic decor and friendly service, invites guests to relax and enjoy. The Bird stands as a testament to Wyoming’s laid-back yet adventurous spirit, making it a must-visit spot.