Fried chicken is a beloved staple in American cuisine, with each state offering its unique twist on the classic dish. Whether it’s crispy and golden, spicy and flavorful, or served with a side of Southern hospitality, there’s no shortage of places claiming to have the best fried chicken. But which ones truly stand out? Here’s a look at the top 10 fried chicken spots across the U.S. that are worth the trip.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House – New Orleans, Louisiana
Why It’s the Best: A New Orleans institution, Willie Mae’s Scotch House has been serving up some of the country’s best fried chicken since 1957. The secret lies in the light, crispy batter and the perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the area and has garnered national attention, including a James Beard Award.
Signature Dish: Classic Fried Chicken Plate – served with a side of butter beans and cornbread.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Mason, Tennessee
Why It’s the Best: Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is known for its spicy, crispy chicken that’s fried to perfection. This Tennessee gem has been a favorite since the 1950s, and its reputation has grown so much that it now has multiple locations across the country. But nothing beats the original.
Signature Dish: Spicy Fried Chicken – with a side of baked beans and coleslaw.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – Nashville, Tennessee
Why It’s the Best: Nashville is synonymous with hot chicken, and Hattie B’s is one of the top spots to try this fiery dish. With varying levels of heat, from “Mild” to “Shut the Cluck Up,” Hattie B’s delivers a crunchy, spicy fried chicken experience that’s second to none.
Signature Dish: Nashville Hot Chicken – served with pimento mac & cheese and collard greens.
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack – Nashville, Tennessee
Why It’s the Best: The birthplace of Nashville hot chicken, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, has been serving up its fiery fried chicken for generations. The perfectly balanced heat and the crispy, flavorful crust make it a legendary spot for hot chicken lovers.
Signature Dish: Original Hot Chicken – with a side of potato salad and white bread.
Stroud’s – Kansas City, Missouri
Why It’s the Best: Stroud’s is famous for its pan-fried chicken, which is cooked in cast iron skillets for an extra-crispy crust. This family-style restaurant has been a Kansas City favorite since the 1930s, offering generous portions of comfort food with a side of nostalgia.
Signature Dish: Pan-Fried Chicken – served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and cinnamon rolls.
Dame’s Chicken & Waffles – Durham, North Carolina
Why It’s the Best: Combining the best of both worlds, Dame’s Chicken & Waffles offers a sweet and savory take on fried chicken. The perfectly fried chicken is paired with crispy waffles and a variety of flavored schmears (whipped butters), making it a soul food haven in the heart of North Carolina.
Signature Dish: The Carolina Cockerel – crispy fried chicken over a classic waffle with a side of mac & cheese.
Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles – Los Angeles, California
Why It’s the Best: A Los Angeles icon, Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles is where fried chicken meets waffles in the best way possible. The chicken is crispy, the waffles are fluffy, and the combination is unbeatable. Celebrities and locals alike flock to Roscoe’s for this iconic dish.
Signature Dish: Scoe’s Special – 1/4 chicken with two waffles.
The Busy Bee Cafe – Atlanta, Georgia
Why It’s the Best: The Busy Bee Cafe has been an Atlanta staple since 1947, serving up some of the best fried chicken in the South. The chicken is marinated in a secret blend of spices before being fried to golden perfection. The atmosphere is as comforting as the food, with classic Southern sides to round out the meal.
Signature Dish: Fried Chicken – served with candied yams and collard greens.
Ezell’s Famous Chicken – Seattle, Washington
Why It’s the Best: Ezell’s Famous Chicken may be far from the South, but it’s earned a reputation as one of the best fried chicken joints in the country. Known for its perfectly seasoned, crispy fried chicken, Ezell’s has even caught the attention of Oprah Winfrey, who declared it her favorite.
Signature Dish: Original Fried Chicken – with a side of coleslaw and mashed potatoes.
Martha Lou’s Kitchen – Charleston, South Carolina
Why It’s the Best: Martha Lou’s Kitchen is a humble spot with big flavors. For over 30 years, Martha Lou’s has been serving fried chicken that’s seasoned to perfection and fried in cast iron skillets. It’s soul food at its finest, with a loyal following that spans generations.
Signature Dish: Fried Chicken – with sides of lima beans and cornbread.
