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By David Marden 01 Feb, 2024
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the timeless appeal of fried chicken. In the Windy City, Chicagoans take their fried chicken seriously, and it's no surprise that the Southern Cooking Food Blog recently ranked the top fried chicken restaurants in the Chicago area. Taking the coveted number one spot was none other than the iconic Honey Butter Fried Chicken, a testament to their dedication to serving up some of the best fried chicken in the region. Honey Butter Fried Chicken Honey Butter Fried Chicken has become synonymous with top-tier fried chicken in Chicago. Located in the Avondale neighborhood , this restaurant has consistently earned rave reviews for its unique take on the classic dish. What sets Honey Butter Fried Chicken apart is its commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and a special twist – they serve their fried chicken with a dollop of honey butter on top. The golden-brown, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior of their fried chicken are nothing short of perfection. The honey butter drizzle adds a sweet and savory contrast that keeps patrons coming back for more. With a menu that offers a variety of side dishes, including cornbread, mac and cheese, and seasonal vegetables, the dining experience at Honey Butter Fried Chicken is nothing short of unforgettable. Harold's Chicken Shack A Chicago institution, Harold's Chicken Shack, is another must-visit spot for fried chicken enthusiasts. With multiple locations across the city, this chain has been serving up its signature crispy fried chicken for decades. The secret to their success lies in their secret blend of spices, which elevates their chicken to legendary status. Whether you prefer wings, legs, or breast, Harold's has something to satisfy every fried chicken craving. Parson's Chicken & Fish Parson's Chicken & Fish is a trendy spot located in Logan Square that's known for its laid-back atmosphere and fantastic fried chicken. Their "Original" fried chicken is seasoned with a delightful blend of spices and served with pickles and hot sauce. The restaurant also boasts a spacious outdoor patio, making it a favorite spot for locals to enjoy their crispy chicken on sunny Chicago afternoons. The Roost Carolina Kitchen If you're searching for a taste of the Carolinas right in the heart of Chicago, The Roost Carolina Kitchen is the place to be. Known for their Southern hospitality and authenticity, this restaurant serves up crispy, seasoned fried chicken that transports diners to the South with every bite. Their variety of dipping sauces adds an extra layer of flavor to their already delicious chicken. Big Jones Big Jones is a Southern-inspired restaurant in Andersonville that offers a unique take on fried chicken. They specialize in serving up buttermilk-brined, heritage-breed fried chicken that's fried to perfection. With a menu influenced by historic Southern recipes, Big Jones provides a culinary journey through the flavors of the American South. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is a Memphis-based chain that has made its mark in the Chicago food scene. Known for its spicy and crispy fried chicken, Gus's has won over the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. The combination of a crispy exterior and tender meat inside makes Gus's chicken a true delight. Budlong Hot Chicken For those who crave a little heat with their fried chicken, Budlong Hot Chicken is the place to go. Their Nashville-style hot chicken is served in various spice levels, from mild to "XXX Hot." It's a fiery take on the classic dish that's sure to wake up your taste buds. The Southern The Southern, located in the South Loop, offers a wide range of Southern comfort food, with their fried chicken being a standout. Their classic fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and pairs perfectly with Southern sides like collard greens, cornbread, and mac and cheese. Brown Sugar Bakery While not exclusively a fried chicken joint, Brown Sugar Bakery deserves a mention for its exceptional fried chicken and sweet treats. Located in the Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood , this bakery serves up soul food classics, including fried chicken with a flavorful, crispy coating. Crisp Crisp, located in Lakeview , offers a unique take on Korean-style fried chicken. Their double-fried chicken is known for its extra crunch and comes in a variety of flavorful sauces, from sweet soy garlic to spicy BBQ. The fusion of Korean and American flavors makes Crisp a popular destination for fried chicken enthusiasts looking for something different. Luella's Southern Kitchen Luella's Southern Kitchen, nestled in Lincoln Square , specializes in authentic Southern cuisine. While their menu features a range of Southern classics, their fried chicken stands out for its perfectly crispy skin and tender meat. Served with a side of homemade gravy, Luella's fried chicken is comfort food at its finest. Pub Royale Pub Royale, located in Wicker Park , offers a unique twist on fried chicken with their "Pub Royale Chicken." This Indian-inspired dish combines crispy fried chicken with bold spices and is served with a side of naan bread and flavorful chutneys, providing a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Roost Chicken & Biscuits Roost Chicken & Biscuits, situated in Lakeview, specializes in fried chicken and, as the name suggests, biscuits. Their chicken is brined and seasoned to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and crispy coating. Pair it with one of their freshly baked biscuits for a true Southern comfort food experience. 5 Loaves Eatery 5 Loaves Eatery, located in Bronzeville , offers a menu that celebrates soul food classics, including fried chicken. Their "Southern Fried Chicken Platter" features crispy chicken served with traditional sides like collard greens and mac and cheese. It's a taste of Southern hospitality right in the heart of Chicago. In a city as diverse and dynamic as Chicago, fried chicken lovers have a multitude of options to choose from. Whether you prefer the sweet and savory combination of Honey Butter Fried Chicken, the spicy kick of Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, or the authentic flavors of The Roost Carolina Kitchen, the Chicago area offers a fried chicken experience to satisfy every palate. Southern Cooking magazine's ranking confirms what locals already knew – Chicago's fried chicken scene is thriving, with Honey Butter Fried Chicken leading the pack as the number one destination for crispy, mouthwatering perfection. So, the next time you're in the Windy City, be sure to explore these top-notch fried chicken establishments and savor the flavors of Chicago's Southern-inspired cuisine.
By David Marden 01 Feb, 2024
The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.
By David Marden 01 Feb, 2024
There are so many good reasons to communicate with site visitors. Tell them about sales and new products or update them with tips and information.
By David Marden 01 Feb, 2024
Write about something you know. If you don’t know much about a specific topic that will interest your readers, invite an expert to write about it.
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