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The 16 Best Fried Chicken in Chicago

For those craving the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken in Chicago, look no further. The Windy City is home to some of the most delicious and mouthwatering fried chicken joints, each with their own unique twist on this classic dish.

Whether you prefer it spicy, extra crispy, or with a side of homemade biscuits, Chicago has a fried chicken spot that will satisfy your cravings. From trendy eateries to neighborhood favorites, there is no shortage of options when it comes to indulging in this beloved comfort food.

With so many delicious options to choose from, it can be tough to decide where to get your fried chicken fix in Chicago. To help you out, here is a list of the 16 best places in the city to satisfy your cravings for this iconic dish.

How this guide is ordered

This list comes from our Chicago editors, who looked citywide for businesses with a long record of satisfied customers, details we could verify and dependable work through every season. We revisit it regularly, so let us know if something has changed.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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Red Light Chicken#1
What stands out
  • The hot honey chicken sandwich is the best ever

  • Service is prompt and friendly even during busy times

  • The truffle fries are a must-order

  • The menu is short and sweet, offering quick and efficient service

Red Light Chicken

4.9799 reviews
2147 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Red Light Chicken is a poultry paradise located in Chicago, known for its succulent chicken sandwiches and crispy shoestring fries. The quaint and charming atmosphere accompanied by outdoor seating enhances the dining experience. The staff are described as sandwich ninjas due to their lightning speed service.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Honey Butter Fried Chicken#2
What stands out
  • Phenomenal food that melts in your mouth

  • Unique flow of service for a pleasant experience

  • Perfect for both vegetarians and meat-eaters

  • Delicious cornbread and chicken dishes

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

4.53,791 reviews
3361 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States

Honey Butter Fried Chicken is a beloved chicken restaurant located in Chicago. Known for its incredible chicken dishes and comforting food, this spot offers a range of services like outdoor seating and delivery. The cozy and trendy atmosphere makes it a favorite among various crowds, from families to university students.

So come and enjoy a delightful meal at Honey Butter Fried Chicken where the food speaks for itself!

Parson's Chicken & Fish#3
What stands out
  • Classic feel with a twist, consistently delicious food, and nostalgic ambiance.

  • Great food and drinks, especially the rotating cocktail menu and the surprisingly delicious fish options.

  • Best chicken sandwich in Chicago, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service.

  • Perfect spot for summer vibes with great frozen drinks, yummy food, and a chill BBQ-like ambiance.

Parson's Chicken & Fish

4.41,973 reviews
2952 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Parson's Chicken & Fish is a popular chicken restaurant in Chicago known for its classic yet innovative dishes. With a rating of 4.4, it has garnered 1973 reviews from satisfied customers. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visitors praise the fast service and outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot for a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience. If you're looking for a cozy and trendy place with flavorful food and innovative drinks, Parson's Chicken & Fish is the place to be!

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken#4
What stands out
  • The food was hot, delicious, and fresh. It's a great place to bring the kids with a variety of options to choose from.

  • Gus’s offers one of the best fried chicken in Westloop with Southern-style decor and quick, hot service.

  • The flavorful fried chicken is a standout, accompanied by delicious sides like okras and a reasonable price point.

  • Customers rave about the exceptional flavor, crunchy texture, and full of juices chicken with a unique charm that makes each visit memorable.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

4.41,626 reviews
847 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken located in Chicago, IL, is a renowned chicken restaurant that offers exceptional delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The establishment is highly recommended by its satisfied customers who have praised the hot and fresh food, friendly service, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Here are a few key points from the customer reviews:

For an authentic and hearty Southern dining experience, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is a must-visit destination for chicken enthusiasts in Chicago.

Fry the Coop (West Town)#5
What stands out
  • Delicious fried chicken sandwiches

  • Top-notch service and friendly staff

  • Great beer selection and cozy atmosphere

Fry the Coop (West Town)

4.5527 reviews
1529 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, United States

Fry the Coop (West Town) is a renowned restaurant located in Chicago, IL, known for its delicious fried chicken sandwiches. The establishment offers various service options like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy fast service and a great beer selection in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

This popular spot is loved for its lunch and dinner offerings, including comfort food, spirits, and vegetarian options. The menu includes favorites like the honey butter and Chicago-style sandwiches, all prepared with 100% Halal certified chicken to ensure quality.

Customers have praised the restaurant for its friendly staff and attention to detail in serving well-seasoned and crispy tenders. The Nashville fried chicken sandwich, while slightly dry, offers flavorful options for those looking to spice things up.

Overall, Fry the Coop remains a top choice for those seeking a satisfying meal in a vibrant setting. With a rating of 4.5 and over 500 reviews, it's clear that this establishment has left a positive impression on its visitors.

Roost Chicken & Biscuits#6
What stands out
  • The fried chicken sandwich is delicious, but toasted buns would enhance the experience

  • Food quality is exceptional, especially the chicken tenders and coleslaw

  • Service is friendly and efficient, creating a welcoming atmosphere

Roost Chicken & Biscuits

4.4860 reviews
457 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Roost Chicken & Biscuits is a beloved southern restaurant in Chicago known for its delicious comfort food offerings. With a rating of 4.4 stars, this eatery has garnered 860 reviews from satisfied customers.

Customers rave about the friendly staff, particularly highlighting the team's attentiveness and warmth. The fast service and flavorful dishes have left patrons coming back for more. If you're in the mood for quality southern cuisine, Roost Chicken & Biscuits is the place to be.

Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles#7
What stands out
  • Service is slow but the food and atmosphere are good

  • Support for black-owned businesses and delicious food

  • Great atmosphere, simple and relaxing, wonderful dishes

  • Delicious food but cold chicken, limited drink options

Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles

4.13,706 reviews
3947 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60653, United States

Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles is a popular Chicken restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a range of services and features that cater to their customers' needs. Some of the highlighted services include Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Customers can enjoy Fast service, Great coffee, and Great dessert at this establishment.

The restaurant is known for being popular for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and even Solo dining. It also offers a variety of amenities such as Wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, seating, and toilets. The atmosphere is described as Casual, Cosy, and Trendy, attracting a diverse crowd including Family friendly, Groups, Tourists, and University students.

Customer reviews highlight the following points:

The Budlong Southern Chicken#8
What stands out
  • Exceptional service and cleanliness

  • Delicious and flavorful chicken sandwiches

  • Great atmosphere and themed decor

The Budlong Southern Chicken

4.4692 reviews
1008 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

The Budlong Southern Chicken is a renowned restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, this place is loved by many customers.

Customers have praised The Budlong for its clean environment, friendly staff, and delicious food. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a rating of 4.4 and 692 reviews, The Budlong Southern Chicken continues to impress its customers with top-notch service and mouthwatering dishes. Visit their website for more information and pay them a visit to enjoy a delightful dining experience!

Mama's Fried Chicken#9
What stands out
  • The chicken was spicy when ordered regular. Salt had no flavor.

  • Great seasoned juicy chicken with contactless pay and fresh hot food.

  • Macaroni had no seasoning, and the chicken had a mild spicy taste.

  • Delicious crispy and moist chicken with great sides like mac and cheese and mashed potatoes.

Mama's Fried Chicken

4.6143 reviews
3857 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60624, United States

Mama's Fried Chicken is a beloved restaurant located in Chicago, known for its delicious fried chicken and impeccable customer service. The business offers a variety of service options including kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. Customers can enjoy a range of offerings like comfort food, organic dishes, quick bites, small plates, and vegetarian options.

Reviews highlight the friendly staff and their excellent service, complimenting the mouthwatering fried chicken and creamy mac and cheese. With a rating of 4.6 based on 143 reviews, Mama's Fried Chicken stands out as a must-visit establishment for anyone craving the best-fried chicken on Roosevelt Road.

Parson's Chicken & Fish#10

Parson's Chicken & Fish

4.3710 reviews
2435 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Parson's Chicken & Fish is a popular chicken restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer various service options such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is a popular choice for lunch and dinner. Customers have praised the tender and juicy chicken served at Parson's, with one mentioning the spicy yet amazing chicken sandwich. The loaded fries and hot chicken sandwich were also highlighted as delicious options. Some customers have mentioned that the food can be a bit bland or not as hot as desired but still appreciate the offerings. The atmosphere of the restaurant is described as comfortable and cute, with a patio outside for warmer days. If you are a fan of comfort food and good cocktails, Parson's Chicken & Fish is a place to check out.

The Budlong Southern Chicken#11
What stands out
  • The chicken sandwiches are juicy and flavorful, especially the Yo Mama’s option, making it a top choice for chicken lovers.

  • The staff at this location is accommodating, friendly, and always goes the extra mile to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

  • While the establishment is known for its excellent food, customers also appreciate the cleanliness of the place and the variety of menu options available.

  • Despite a few hiccups reported by some customers, such as missing items from takeout orders, the majority of reviews praise The Budlong for its outstanding food quality and service.

The Budlong Southern Chicken

4.3578 reviews
4619 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, United States

The Budlong Southern Chicken is a popular restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of services and features to their customers, including outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for their delicious comfort food offerings, late-night bites, and quick service, The Budlong is a go-to spot for many.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional food quality and friendly staff. Some key points from recent reviews include:

If you're in the mood for some tasty chicken dishes in a casual and cozy atmosphere, be sure to check out The Budlong Southern Chicken!

Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken#12
What stands out
  • The chicken sandwich was crispy but slightly soggy, and the spice level was underwhelming.

  • The Big Boss sandwich with regular spicy level was juicy and delicious, with ample parking nearby.

  • The Spicy Fried Chicken sandwich and waffle fries were flavorful and perfectly cooked, offering a top-notch dining experience.

  • While some menu items were enjoyable, others fell short in terms of taste and quality.

Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken

4.3563 reviews
2520 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken is a renowned chicken restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of Service options for their customers, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services. Known for being popular for lunch and dinner, this spot is perfect for solo dining as well.

The comfort food offerings at Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken are a hit among customers who are looking for a quick bite with authentic flavors. The dining options at the restaurant include options for lunch, dinner, and dessert. The casual and trendy atmosphere make it a favorite spot for families who appreciate a friendly environment.

Customer reviews are a mixed bag, ranging from average to excellent. Here are some key points from their reviews:

If you're a fan of spicy fried chicken and comforting classics, don't miss out on Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken for a memorable dining experience in Chicago!

Feed#13
What stands out
  • Great food from scratch with a strong selection of side dishes and desserts

  • Delicious and cozy environment with standard quality dishes

  • Decent prices and friendly service

  • Simple and honest food with good prices and huge portions

Feed

4.3521 reviews
2803 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Feed is a beloved American restaurant situated in the heart of Chicago, offering a unique dining experience to all its patrons. With a remarkable Rating of 4.3, this restaurant has garnered 521 reviews from satisfied customers who have praised various aspects of Feed.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Feed is known for its service options like Outdoor seating and Delivery, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their meals. It is popular for offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that cater to solo diners as well as groups. The restaurant also provides amenities like gender-neutral toilets and a casual, cozy atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to visit Feed and indulge in their delicious fare that is sure to leave you satisfied and coming back for more.

Uncle Remus SFC - Central & Madison#14
What stands out
  • Consistent quality of the chicken

  • Excellent service from friendly staff

  • Reopening after a remodel has been met with positivity

  • Original sauce flavor now back to its classic taste

Uncle Remus SFC - Central & Madison

4.01,301 reviews
5611 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60644, United States

Uncle Remus SFC - Central & Madison is a beloved Chicken restaurant in Chicago that has been satisfying customers for years. The restaurant is known for its delicious Comfort food offerings and is a popular spot for both Lunch and Dinner.

Customers rave about their experience at Uncle Remus, with many highlighting key points:

With a solid 4.0 rating from over 1300 reviews, Uncle Remus SFC - Central & Madison continues to be a go-to spot for delicious chicken dishes in Chicago. So next time you're craving some tasty chicken, make sure to visit Uncle Remus!

JJ Fish and Chicken#15
What stands out
  • The hot wings are a must-try, with generous portions of lemon pepper and hot sauce.

  • Customers appreciate the affordability of the menu compared to other options in the area.

  • Despite some issues with online orders, customers enjoy the warm meals and delicious flavors offered at JJ Fish and Chicken.

  • Regular patrons mention that the catfish steaks and Jack salmon are favorites, with great flavor and freshness.

JJ Fish and Chicken

4.0280 reviews
26 E Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

JJ Fish and Chicken is a popular chicken restaurant located in Chicago, known for its delicious comfort food offerings. Customers can enjoy a variety of dishes for lunch and dinner, including hot wings and fried fish. The restaurant offers delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their favorite meals.

With a rating of 4.0 and over 280 reviews, JJ Fish and Chicken is a go-to spot for those craving flavorful fried fish and chicken in downtown Chicago. Whether you're a tourist or a university student, this casual restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious comfort food.

George's Chicken & Shrimp#16
What stands out
  • One customer praised the chicken sandwiches and fries, recommending the lemon pepper seasoning.

  • Another customer was disappointed with the chicken and shrimp combo but appreciated the initiative to support black-owned businesses.

  • Customers have also raved about the catfish and chicken wings, noting the perfect seasoning and crispy texture.

  • A satisfied customer mentioned the flavorful shrimp and wings and expressed their intention to return.

George's Chicken & Shrimp

4.243 reviews
1419 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

George's Chicken & Shrimp is a popular chicken restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy their meals in a casual atmosphere that is family-friendly.

The restaurant is known for its delicious comfort food offerings, including chicken sandwiches, wings, catfish, and shrimp. Customers rave about the flavorful dishes and generous portion sizes. The menu also features late-night options for those craving a midnight snack.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.2 stars and positive customer feedback, George's Chicken & Shrimp is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious comfort food in Chicago. Visit their website for more information and to place an order for delivery or takeaway.

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Map of Fried Chicken in Chicago

Chicago is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, but one beloved staple that can be found on almost every corner is fried chicken. From crispy wings to juicy drumsticks, this map showcases the best locations in the city to indulge in this comfort food favorite. Whether you prefer classic fried chicken or spicy, this map has something for every craving.

How to choose Fried Chicken in Chicago

  1. Locations throughout the city for convenience.
  2. Variety of seasoning options, from classic to spicy.
  3. Online ordering for easy pickup or delivery.
  4. Homemade sides that perfectly complement the fried chicken.

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