The Best Fried Chicken in Every State

Alabama

Alabama: Mama’s on Dauphin, Mobile: In Alabama, they’re all about the birds. At this restaurant in Dauphin, they understand that the key to delicious chicken lies in a flavorful brine. The chicken is soaked in a mixture of bay leaves, garlic, and seasoning salt overnight, infusing it with a bold and tasty kick.

Alaska

Alaska: The Lucky Wishbone, Anchorage: When you think of Alaska, fried chicken might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the Lucky Wishbone in Anchorage, a family-owned restaurant established in 1955, is here to change your perception. Known for their signature dish “The Pop,” which includes a variety of chicken pieces such as breast, thigh, leg, wing, and back, this eatery has become a beloved institution in the state.

Arizona

Arizona: Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe, Phoenix: This restaurant has been showcased on Food Network’s Best Thing I Ever Ate, which is a testament to the quality of their fried chicken. The beautiful golden color of the chicken is a mark of true soul food expertise. Be sure to leave some space for the delectable peach cobbler dessert. And if you’re a fan of fried chicken, don’t forget to check out our top recipes for this classic dish!

Arkansas

Arkansas: Myrtie Mae’s, Eureka Springs: When the waitress approaches your table, be sure to order the “Ozark Fried Chicken” at Myrtie Mae’s. This dish is a major draw for the restaurant, and with good reason. While the three tender pieces may seem basic without any added spice or heat, sometimes simplicity is key when it comes to fried chicken. Less can truly be more in this case.

California

California: Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles, Hollywood: When it comes to this satisfying breakfast meal, Roscoe’s is the ultimate expert— even former President Obama is a fan, along with many other celebrities! One of the highlights on the menu is the “Obama’s Special,” featuring three crispy wings served on a large waffle. If you can’t visit Hollywood to try it, give our simple 4-ingredient chicken and waffles recipe a shot.

Colorado

Colorado: The Post Brewing Co., Denver: Is it possible to enjoy gluten-free fried chicken? The team at The Post Brewing Co. confidently say yes! Through extensive research and meticulous calculations to find the ideal batter-to-chicken ratio, they have perfected their method using a combination of brine, buttermilk, and seasonings.

Connecticut

Connecticut, Greer’s Chicken, Bristol: Tucked away on a quiet side street, this chicken spot in Connecticut is famous for its delectable fried chicken chunks. These bite-sized pieces of white meat are coated in a special batter, deep-fried to perfection, and served juicy. And when drizzled with honey BBQ sauce, it’s a definite must-try.

Delaware

Delaware: Lettie’s Kitchen, Hockessin: At this Delaware diner, they’ve introduced a new method called “broasted” chicken, which involves deep-frying the chicken in a pressure cooker. This technique ensures that the chicken remains crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, all without the excess oil typically associated with frying. Be sure to explore our top pressure cooker recipes for more delicious dishes.

Florida

Florida: KYU, Miami: Step aside, Kentucky Fried Chicken, because there’s a new KFC in town: Korean Fried Chicken. At KYU (pronounced “Q”), this spicy poultry dish is double-fried and wood-fired, providing a unique combination of less grease and more crunch.

Georgia

Georgia: Cafe Sunflower, Atlanta: Good news for vegans and vegetarians – you can indulge in America’s beloved finger-licking meal as well! Head to this acclaimed restaurant and savor a waffle topped with fried chicken seitan, accompanied by a generous serving of vegan whipped cream. Be sure to check out our collection of Sunday brunch recipes for more delicious ideas.

Hawaii

Hawaii: Side Street Inn, Honolulu: Indulge in authentic island cuisine by trying the spicy garlic chicken at this restaurant, which is coated in a sweet and sour Asian-inspired sauce. Instead of the usual biscuit, complement your chicken with Side Street Inn’s renowned fried rice featuring char siu, sausage, bacon, and vegetables. If you’re unfamiliar with char siu pork, discover more about it with this char siu pork recipe.

Idaho

Idaho: Juniper, Boise: Juniper’s “Chicken in a Biscuit” outshines Chick-fil-A sandwiches with its mouthwatering combination of fried chicken, bacon, egg, and white cheddar sandwiched between two biscuit halves and topped with sausage gravy. This brunch dish is so hearty that it comes with a steak knife to tackle its delicious layers.

Illinois

Illinois: Honey Butter Fried Chicken, Chicago: Think of this as “artisan comfort food,” a refined take on the classic fried chicken meal. Indulge in spreading the luscious honey butter over your hot and crispy chicken and honeycomb corn muffins to elevate your dining experience to a whole new level of finger-licking goodness.

Indiana

Indiana: The Eagle, Indianapolis: Add some excitement to your taste buds with the black pepper-crusted drumettes at The Eagle in Indianapolis. For an extra kick, dip your succulent drumettes into the hot pepper honey that is served in a pitcher alongside your order.

Iowa

Iowa: Bubba, Des Moines: Bubba specializes in southern cuisine, offering some of the finest fried chicken in town. Their organic chicken is carefully brined, seasoned, breaded, and fried upon order to ensure a flavorful dining experience. Opt for a 2-piece, 3-piece, or half chicken meal, each accompanied by pickles, mashed potatoes, and two side dishes of your choice. For those craving more than just fried chicken, don’t miss out on Bubba’s enticing chicken and waffles dinner.

Kansas

Kansas: Krispy’s Fried Chicken and Seafood, Wichita: Picture juicy chicken pieces fried to a crispy, golden perfection – that’s what awaits you at Krispy’s, where every order is made fresh right before your eyes. Coated in a deliciously seasoned flour and sometimes served on a light and fluffy waffle, the wait for this delectable dish is definitely worth it.

Kentucky

Kentucky: The Parkette, Lexington: In the Bluegrass State, there is an abundance of exceptional fried chicken options. However, one that truly shines is the renowned lard-fried chicken from The Parkette, often hailed as the authentic Kentucky Fried Chicken. These delectable pieces are perfectly greasy and irresistibly delicious, making it hard to resist reaching for more. Discover how to create fried chicken that surpasses KFC’s with this recipe!

Louisiana

Louisiana: Willie Mae’s Scotch House, New Orleans: This fried chicken has been hailed by both the Food Network and the Travel Channel as not only the finest in Louisiana but also the top choice nationwide. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, the skin is a fast-food lover’s dream: boasting a rich golden hue and a satisfyingly crispy texture.

Maine

Maine: Hot Suppa, Portland: Prepare to embrace the messiness! Hot Suppa in Portland serves up incredibly juicy chicken that will have you reaching for plenty of napkins. Indulge in their chicken and waffles or try the Fried Chicken Sandwich, featuring layers of chicken with jalapeno slaw and Sriracha mayo for a flavorful kick.

Maryland

Maryland :Ekiben, Baltimore: Forget traditional fried chicken – Ekiben puts a unique spin on this classic dish with their Asian fusion twist, delivering an equally delightful experience with its super crispy skin. Indulge in the “Neighborhood Bird” bento box, featuring a Taiwanese curry fried chicken thigh served on a steamed bun with spicy mayo and pickles. Place your order online and enjoy a delicious dinner tonight with convenient curbside pickup.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts: Cutty’s, Brookline: Get ready for a line at Cutty’s, where once a month, the husband-and-wife team hosts “Super Cluckin’ Sunday” featuring their famous buttermilk fried chicken sandwich. This delectable sandwich is topped with ranch, BBQ sauce, and sweet onion, served with a side of housemade chips. While waiting and arriving early was the norm, the restaurant now accepts online orders for curbside pickup exclusively.

Michigan

Michigan: Eastside Fish Fry & Grill, Lansing: Guy Fieri vouches for this Michigan grill’s expertise in preparing delicious poultry dishes. Referred to as “crack chicken” locally, the bird is marinated in a secret spice dry rub for 48 hours before being freshly deep-fried upon order. For a unique twist, consider sampling the fried frog legs, which reportedly have a flavor reminiscent of chicken. Guy Fieri affirms that these dishes are truly authentic and worth trying.

Minnesota

Minnesota: Revival, St. Paul: The chicken at this well-loved Minnesota restaurant has us salivating, thanks to a three-day marinade followed by frying in lard. The outcome? A crunchy coating that perfectly envelops the chicken, allowing the rich flavors to take center stage.

Mississippi

Mississippi: Old Country Store, Lorman: Indulge in the ultimate treat of a fried chicken buffet at this hidden gem eatery, where the crispy, battered birds have earned legendary status. Founder Arthur Davis is renowned as the King of Chicken, and even Alton Brown has declared it the best fried chicken he’s ever tasted. Discover more of Alton Brown’s top food picks alongside this exceptional dining experience.

Missouri

Missouri: Hodak’s, St. Louis: Hodak’s half-bird special sets itself apart from the average fried chicken with its unique qualities. Served in generous portions on plates, this dish breaks tradition by featuring a cornmeal crust that evokes memories of Grandma’s delicious cornbread.

Montana

Montana: Roost Fried Chicken, Bozeman: Experience a taste of the South at this Bozeman eatery, where a family recipe originating from Tennessee is proudly used. Indulge in their special “fried chicken on a stick,” a delightful and crispy treat served with a buttery biscuit on top.

Nebraska

Nebraska: Time Out, Omaha: You’ll likely find it hard to resist finishing every delicious morsel of fried chicken at this top spot in the Midwest. The chicken breasts are deboned before frying, ensuring you get a generous portion of tender and juicy meat that is simply irresistible.

Nevada

Nevada: Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken, Summerlin: After two decades of refining the spice blend for the breading, which features ingredients like basil, parsley, thyme, garlic, paprika, salt, and a touch of cayenne, coat the chicken in egg whites and matzo meal for added crispiness. The result is a mouthwatering meal that is sure to have you licking your fingers clean.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire: The Puritan Backroom, Manchester: Legend has it that The Puritan Backroom is where the famous chicken tenders were first created. With a single taste, it’s easy to see why – the tender strips are delicately coated and served hot. Enjoy them with a side of their delectable homemade sweet and sour sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

New Jersey

New Jersey: Chicken Supreme, Paterson: At this New Jersey establishment, the motto is “Always fresh, never frozen.” Every large piece of meat is covered in a crunchy breading that reveals a juicy and flavorful interior with each bite.

New Mexico

New Mexico: Nexus Brewery, Albuquerque: Chicken and waffles are a match made in brunch heaven. And at this brewery, they’re famous for their New-Mexico-meets-soul-food version of the classic combo. You’ll be handed a savory cornbread waffle topped with crunchy fresh chicken (don’t forget the cracklings!) and drizzled with butter pecan syrup.

New York

New York: Pies ‘n’ Thighs, Brooklyn: Indulge in crispy fried chicken and decadent homemade pies at this hidden treasure, aptly named for its delicious offerings. Both the chicken and desserts are generously infused with butter, adding to their rich and savory flavors. Discover which butter brand came out on top in our blind taste test while enjoying a meal at this delightful spot.

North Carolina

North Carolina: Mama Dips, Chapel Hill: Ranked at the top of Southern soul food establishments, this iconic Chapel Hill eatery keeps it simple yet satisfying. Mama’s secret to creating some of the most delicious fried chicken lies in using just a touch of black pepper and shortening, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients make the best meals.

North Dakota

North Dakota: Hornbacher’s, Fargo: At Hornbacher’s, a regional supermarket, customers are drawn in by the promise of fresh groceries but stay for the mouthwatering fried chicken. The store is renowned for its delicious poultry, which is breaded and fried on-site. This unique combination of convenience and comfort food results in a satisfying and juicy dining experience.

Ohio

Ohio: Belgrade Gardens, Barberton: Indulge in the crispiest and crunchiest chicken at Belgrade Gardens, located in the renowned “Fried Chicken Capital of the World.” This establishment not only lives up to its city’s reputation with its flavorful and juicy chicken (served by the owner who introduced it), but it also provides a unique and delicious hot relish for dipping that sets it apart from the rest.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma:Eischen’s, Okarche: Experience authentic country cooking at Oklahoma’s oldest bar, where they serve up perfectly cooked chicken in cast-iron skillets. This mouthwatering dish can only be ordered as a whole chicken, ensuring that every bite is succulent and delicious. Don’t forget to try the equally tasty sides of fried okra and white toast that complement the main dish perfectly.

Oregon

Oregon: Toki, Portland: For those craving Korean fried chicken in Portland, Toki is the go-to spot. Created by the duo Peter Cho and Sun Young Park, who also own Han Oak, this contemporary eatery features a variety of fried chicken wing options, including flavors like instant ramen essence, Korean hot chicken, sweet garlic soy glaze, and spicy gochujang and tamarind. Can’t make up your mind? Try the chicken wing flight to sample each delectable flavor!

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania: Federal Donuts, Philadelphia: In Philadelphia, a unique twist on fried chicken has emerged with the pairing of doughnuts instead of the traditional waffles. Indulge in this sweet and savory combination at a local shop where you can enjoy a juicy twice-fried chicken breast, thigh, and drumstick served alongside a homemade honey cake doughnut.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island: Bucktown, Providence: Chef Ashley Faulkner has a unique approach to making her renowned fried chicken: she skips seasoning the breading. This unconventional method is what sets her signature dish apart and has made it a local favorite. Faulkner adds pickle brine to the flour mixture, enhancing the flavor and creating a crispy, flaky coating on the chicken.

South Carolina

South Carolina: Yogi Bear’s Honey Fried Chicken, Hartsville: When it comes to this renowned fried chicken, one word says it all: thick. The crust on this dish is dense and substantial, making it a standout feature. Pairing the chicken with sweet, syrupy honey enhances its flavor even more. The thick and heavy exterior of the chicken helps to lock in all the delicious savory juices, creating a truly satisfying dining experience.

South Dakota

South Dakota: The Keg, Sioux Falls: The Keg takes pride in their method of frying chicken one piece at a time, ensuring each bite is incredibly tender and crispy. While you have the option to order various chicken parts from breast to thigh, a must-try at this establishment is their renowned chicken gizzards served on a plate.

Tennessee

Tennessee: Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, Nashville: When in Music City, forget about ordinary fried chicken and try the iconic Nashville Hot Chicken instead! For those brave enough to handle the spicy heat, a visit to Prince’s, the original hotspot for this fiery dish, is a must. Be sure to pair your meal with a cold soda and creamy coleslaw to cool down your burning taste buds afterward.

Texas

Texas: Chuy’s, Austin: Chuy’s, now a popular national chain, is known for its Elvis Green Chile Fried Chicken that drives customers wild. This dish features chicken coated in a crunchy crust made with a secret ingredient: Lay’s potato chips. The chicken is then smothered in a flavorful mix of spicy green chile sauce and cheddar cheese. Discover our top picks for Lay’s potato chip flavors that we just can’t get enough of!

Utah

Utah: Curry Fried Chicken, Salt Lake City: The fusion of Indian takeout and Southern comfort food may seem unlikely, but one taste of this sizzling, curry-infused fried chicken will change your mind! This dish redefines the concept of “spicy chicken” and is sure to win you over with its unique and flavorful combination.

Vermont

Vermont: Chicken Charlie’s, Burlington: For a quick fix of fast food fried chicken, make a stop at Chicken Charlie’s. Their succulent chicken hits the spot with just the right level of greasiness to fulfill your cravings. Rumor has it that their Cajun-spiced chicken rivals the authentic flavors of the deep South.

Virginia

Virginia: Tanglewood Ordinary Country Restaurant, Maidens: Experience a taste of the South at this iconic hotel, where you can indulge in endless servings of delicious fried chicken. The crispy breading provides a satisfying crunch while allowing the juicy meat to shine as the star of the dish.

Washington

Washington: Heaven Sent Fried Chicken, Seattle: While the breaded chicken at this Northern chain may not be heaven-sent, its incredible taste might make you think otherwise. The tender meat practically melts in your mouth, showcasing why chef Ezell Stephens was specially flown to Chicago to prepare his renowned fried chicken for Oprah Winfrey. Discover more of Oprah’s favorite dishes that she can’t get enough of.

West Virginia

West Virginia: Sumthin’ Good Soul Food, South Charleston: To experience a meal as delightful as the state of West Virginia itself, visit Sumthin’ Good Soul Food for their freshly prepared fried chicken. The perfectly seasoned, crispy and crunchy exterior of the chicken is sure to impress.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin: Graze, Madison: Indulge guilt-free in this farm-to-table fried chicken sourced from nearby pastures. This Midwestern twist on Nashville Hot Chicken is served on a fluffy waffle and accompanied by a pot of maple syrup to balance out the spiciness of the cayenne butter.

Wyoming

Wyoming: Bodega, Jackson Hole: While they may be served from a food truck, the chicken sandwiches at Bodega are a dream come true. Take your pick from six delectable fried chicken sandwich choices, each showcasing a hand-cut piece of meat marinated in buttermilk, coated in breading, and not just fried once, but triple-fried for ultimate crispiness.