The best fried chicken in every state, according to Yelp
Wan L./Yelp
- The global fried-chicken takeout market is projected to hit $8.25 billion by 2025, driven by the US.
- From roadside eateries to diners, these US restaurants serve the best fried chicken.
- Yelp identified the top spots in each state based on customer reviews.
Whether you like your fried chicken boneless or bone-in, with a little bit of spice, in a bucket or in a sandwich, these fried-chicken eateries across the US have something for everyone.
Fried chicken is a popular choice in the US, both for dining out and eating at home. Frozen fried-chicken products were consumed by an estimated 175.25 million Americans in 2020, according to Statista, which used data from the US Census and Simmons National Consumer Survey.
But chicken wasn't always this popular. In the 1990s and early 2000s, fried chicken was largely considered an unhealthy option, Business Insider reported, but by 2016, this perception had shifted. Fast-food brands specializing in chicken, such as Chick-fil-A and KFC, experienced significant growth, while other chains, such as McDonald's and Burger King, expanded their chicken menu options.
Market Research Future estimated that the global fried-chicken takeout market could reach more than $8.25 billion by 2025 — with the US being responsible for almost a third of the market share — and more than $10.52 billion by 2032.
To help diners find the best restaurants serving fried chicken, Yelp rounded up the best spots in every state by identifying businesses in its "chicken shop" category and ranking them based on ratings and the number of five-star reviews. All the restaurants on this list had a passing health score and were marked open as of June 25, 2024.
Here are the best fried chicken shops in every state — and what to order.
FoodWanderer A./Yelp
What to order: The chicken tender sandwich
What customers say: "10/10. No words just go. Maybe best friend chicken I've had??? The popcorn chicken is similar to boneless wings but soooo much better. We called the food in and it was prompt and ready in 10! Not a ton of dining space inside, a casual spot, but can def still eat there," wrote Yelp user Kaitlyn E.
The Chicken Coop/Yelp
What to order: The spicy chicken sandwich
What customers say: "Got the spicy chicken sandwich and waffle fries and they were some of the best I've ever had. I love little hole in the wall restaurants and this one did not disappoint at all. 10/10 Recommend for some good chicken," wrote Yelp user Ben S.
Mengyun Z./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Okay, maybe the beer isn't actually the coldest in town but there are a bunch to pick from and delicious with chicken. We ordered two chicken sandwiches, original and extra spicy. This is served with house made sauce and pickles. No scrimping as there are bottles on the table. It's serve yourself napkins and condiments but they thought of every need. The setting is pure desert funky. They can handle a crowd too," wrote Yelp user Shirley I.
Brian K./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "Holy hot chicken! Dot's is sooo good! I'd be sad to say this place beats the hot chicken joints I've tried in Nashville, but it's practically in my backyard so I'm not sad at all. Their tenders are perfectly spiced and crispy on the outside while juicy on the inside. […] I'll be back here again, and again, and again," wrote Yelp user Freeman L.
Alex J./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "The food was great, I loved the loaded fries called Mario's fries and specially their banana pudding dessert. And I can't leave out the great customer service," wrote Yelp user Alano O.
Ray Z./Yelp
What to order: Chicken Katsu
What customers say: "I visit Denver about every other month and I'm always looking for great food. A local recommended this place and a must try. Came in shortly after they opened at 10:30am and was surprised to see more than a few customers. I ordered the chicken sandwich with a side of fried rice. They fried chicken was crunchy and tasteful. The sauce, slaw, kickin sauce, and Texas Toast all complete this great chicken sandwich," wrote Yelp user Ed-man H.
Birdcode/Yelp
What to order: Hot chicken
What customers say: "Wow!!!! Talk about AMAZING chicken!!! I ordered the Sando with one side dish (Mac n Cheese)! I ordered the Mild - it had a good kick but not TOO spicy. My friend ordered the second hottest and he was sweating lol so, if you don't like extreme heat, try to Mild or Medium spice levels. Chicken was very flavorful and juicy! 10/10 recommend!" wrote Yelp user Shirley F.
Metro Diner/Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken, chicken and waffles
What customers say: "Listen, you need to come here, and you need to get the chicken and waffles. Today it was served with their strawberry butter and OMG it was like eating a strawberry glazed donut!" wrote Yelp user Tracy D.
Bethany W./Yelp
What to order: Hotbox
What customers say: "I love chicken fire, and I am always craving it when I'm not in Orlando. The portions and the flavor are great. I always do takeout, so I can't speak to the service or ambiance here. My go-to is the hot box. The hot box comes with 2 big tenders, fries, 2 pickle slices, coleslaw, sauce, and a slice of bread. I like that the coleslaw is light, and I especially like the seasoning on the fries. The chicken tenders are huge, and they're cooked well. The bread is ok. […] Overall, this is a great spot that consistently serves good food. I recommend it," wrote Yelp user Marina C.
Rock's Chicken & Fries/Yelp
What to order: Yuma
What customers say: "Rocks does not miss. I don't live close but I find myself ratting there about once a month. It's that good!" wrote Yelp user Nathan G.
Jelene C./Yelp
What to order: Leg quarter
What customers say: "Best Chicken we had on the Big Island! Willie's only uses the freshest chicken from local Hilo farmers! We enjoy their sides dishes . The Wings are 'Huge' with Sweet Hawaiian was especially memorable. Must try! Service Excellence from Ky & Patrick (bartender) with only Big Aloha! We will return," wrote Yelp user John P.
Gianna K./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "Burnin' Mouth is an amazing addition to the food scene in Meridian! It's located in the Village, so you can stop by here for a quick bite in between your shopping. If you've never had Korean corn dogs before or have been craving one, this is the place to go! Obvious PSA: Korean corn dogs are different from American corn dogs since it's made of bread dough + panko instead of cornmeal. We ordered their chicken sandwich combo and a half mozzarella/half sausage Korean corn dog. I was super stoked to see that this place had actual affordable Korean corn dogs! […] Definitely will be back and highly recommend it if you're in the area!" wrote Yelp user Genovese L.
Zewei C./Yelp
What to order: Popcorn chicken
What customers say: "Six stars! On a trip to Chicago, I was craving some Asian food so I went to Chinatown. This place showed up on my Yelp search so I decided to give them a try. They are a smallish store but it was super busy on a Friday afternoon. We ordered at the kiosk and got the braised pork rice bento and the drink/fried chicken combo. Food came out fast. […] I highly recommend them! I think one of the best meals I had in Chicago," wrote Yelp user Nina W.
Lara P./Shutterstock
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Shani's should not be so secret, esp. if you're on the west side and needing a chicken fix. Inside of Chapati (which is also fantastic in its own right), they make some of the most flavorful chicken in Indy. Definitely not your standard fried chicken. I tend to always get the spicy chicken sandwich (served on small naan bread), and the masala fries. There is a little wait, but only because they everything is made to order when ordered. Play some caroms while you wait!" wrote Yelp user David C.
Learn more about Shani's Secret Chicken here.
Mary P./Yelp
What to order: Nashville hot chicken sliders
What customers say: "I had heard great things and was not disappointed. I had the chicken fried chicken breakfast which came with country potatoes and eggs any style. The chicken was perfectly crispy and nicely seasoned and topped with a delicious gravy. I loved the country potatoes too. […] The host was very friendly and communicated well too. The food came out quickly and was nice and hot," wrote Yelp user Penelope A.
Erin D./Yelp
What to order: Chicken tenders
What customers say: "Delicious chicken. On point Cajun spice. This is a small restaurant. You can hear the fryers in the dining area. There is water to drink while waiting on to go orders. Which I like. I've been with others who ordered the catfish or gator who thought it was great," wrote Yelp user Steve B.
John R./Yelp
What to order: Cheesy chicken popcorn
What customers say: "Perfectly located, Royals has been a spot I have been wishing to try for a while. I often tire of chicken and opt for fast food but I wanted something better. I ordered a chicken sandwich with macaroni and cheese. The chicken sandwich is what I had hoped for. The meat is obviously of good quality and is juicy throughout. I did not have any raw or chewy or honey pieces in my sandwich. Every bite was perfect.[…] Macaroni and cheese passes, better than Kraft and has a home cooked meal feel. Strawberry freeze was the perfect treat to wash it all down," wrote Yelp user Avery E.
Chicken's Kitchen/Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Yes. Yes. Yes. Everything I've had here has exceeded my expectations and it's sooo much food. Yet the quality is consistent and delicious. I've had the catfish, Cornish hens, oxtails, and they were all perfectly cooked and well seasoned. The 5 star Mac and cheese is really 5 stars, no exaggerations. […] The only downside is the wait. There's always a line out the door so be aware, but definitely worth it if you have the time to spare," wrote Yelp user Paige P.
Joanna R./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "There are a lot of restaurants in Portland that talk a big game, get a lot of press, or tourists experience it through rose colored vacation glasses. But Crispy is truly one of the best fried chickens I've had. Perfectly flavored, perfectly fried, perfectly tender," wrote Yelp user Patrick C.
Thanh L./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "BRD has amazing chicken sandwiches and the fries are the BEST! Seasoned to perfection, chicken is cooked perfectly. It was juicy and tender. The food was still hot when we received it. Service was quick and efficient. We got our food delivered so I can't speak to the ambiance of the location. But it is worth stopping by for a tasty lunch!" wrote Yelp user Chelitta S.
Brianna T./Yelp
What to order: Chicken drumstick
What customers say: "I'm so impressed by the quality of chicken here! Each piece is fried to perfection — the breading is crispy, crunchy, and flavorful, while the chicken itself is super tender, moist, and lightly seasoned. No dry or soggy chicken at Underdog!" wrote Yelp user Della S.
Kerry F./Yelp
What to order: Hot chicken waffles
What customers say: "Amazing Fried Chicken and Fun Atmosphere! Hancock is a must-visit if you're craving some seriously yummy fried chicken. The flavors were on point, and the fried jalapeño cornbread was a delightful twist, especially if you're a jalapeño lover like me. […] All in all, a fantastic spot for a casual and delicious meal!" wrote Yelp user Lucy N.
Kara D./Yelp
What to order: Cluckin hot tendies
What customers say: "Crispy and fresh! Reminds me of Raising Cane's but way better for a variety of reasons. Locally made for Minnesota, there are currently two physical locations along with food trucks around the Twin Cities. When you think about supporting local, this is it! The service was friendly and kind," wrote Yelp user Tiffany W.
Matt H./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Drove down from Jackson and popped in here on our way back and man O man I'm so glad we did. I eneded up getting two full plate combos which comes with choice of one meat and three sides. I got the baked chicken (dark meat) and corn bread dressing, cabbage and Mac and cheese and my friend got the Turkey necks Mac and cheese corn bread dressing and rice and gravy. When I say EVERYTHING WAS GOOD! […] Next time I'm back in Golf Port I'll definitely be by Faye's Kitchen!" wrote Yelp user Mallory W.
Chuck's Hot Chicken/Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "Let me start by saying I'm a hot chicken snob. After eating amazing hot chicken in Nashville, the bar is set high and Chuck's did not disappoint. Their chicken is delicious, well seasoned and portions are perfect for a big appetite. I recommend going down one spice level as with hot chicken, it's really hot. I'm a medium and can happily consume the medium at Chuck's but stay at mild because there is less sweating. Favorite sides are the coleslaw and fries. The fries are spectacular! I order more than I need so I have late night leftovers because this place leaves you wanting more," wrote Yelp user Melissa S.
Sabrina C./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken sandwich
What customers say: "Holy amazing, the best burgers we have had in a long time! We had a hamburger and the fried chicken burger. Both were AMAZING!!! Everyone that helped us was very nice and attentive. Food came super fast and fresh! We will for sure be back soon!" wrote Yelp user Kerry N.
Tom D./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "The best little restaurant around! Great Food and Service! We showed up 1hr before closing and Everthing Very Fresh! Outstanding Owner and Service!" wrote Yelp user Scott O.
The Crack Shack/Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Everything about the Crack Shack Vegas experience makes you smile! Clever website wording, intriguing menu options making it tough to choose just one, detailed attention to take-out packaging, and personalized, friendly service all contributed to our excellent breakfast takeout meal today. Quality from start to finish!" wrote Yelp user Heather M.
Hayden H./Yelp
What to order: Nashville hot chicken
What customers say: "Outstanding chicken the best I have had! Cooked right and not dry! I will buy a whole one next time," wrote Yelp user Danny M.
Kimberly T. /Yelp
What to order: Rose chicken
What customers say: "Mama Chicken is consistently good with their food. We get the soy garlic and spicy soy garlic wings and also the drumsticks. The only issue is it's really expensive. For 16 wings & 4 drumsticks, it's $40+. That's what I could spend at an all you can eat KBBQ spot. They are quick to get your order when you order for pick up. It's a clean establishment," wrote Yelp user Julie A.
kūKri/Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "Holy smokes! How come no one told me about this place before now?!? Run, sprint to kukri if you love fried chicken. There's no denying this is the BEST fried chicken in the state. I will go down on this hill. Service workers were awesome!" wrote Yelp user Kirstin B.
Nisha P./Yelp
What to order: Chilli chicken sandwich
What customers say: "I've been here twice now and I'm happily still in love with the food. The chicken burgers are so full of masala in the best way. I also love that I can choose between white and dark meat. You may think the masala potatoes and the dips can be skipped but I assure you they can't," wrote Yelp user Anusha G.
Mikaela B./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "This is a hometown hidden gem thats perfect for literally any day of the week. I've been coming to get their version of comfort food since I was in grad school several years ago and since they've reopened last year, I have been pleasantly surprised to see they have not missed a beat. My favorite dish is the chicken platter," wrote Yelp user Pree N.
Zach I./Yelp
What to order: Fargo hot
What customers say: "Wonderful gluten free options for my daughter with celiac. My son and I also enjoyed our food. We tried the cheese curds, wings, tenders and chicken sandwich. I would recommend them all! The white BBQ sauce was our favorite sauce," wrote Yelp user Teresa K.
Denyse S./Yelp
What to order: CM fried chicken
What customers say: "Korean Fried Chicken place next to my house that we went to about once a week and this is absolutely spot on with the flavors. The chicken is extremely crispy and sauced to perfection (non sauced available). I have grown fond of the Curry, but the others are also great. There is a secret menu that you can ask about as well. Get in your car, and go now. Like why are you still reading this when you could be that much closer to some of the best chicken you have ever had," wrote Yelp user Blake M.
Learn more about CM Chicken – Korean Fried Chicken here.
Nashbird/Yelp
What to order: Hot dang salad
What customers say: "Enjoyed my meal at NASHBIRD. If you like spicy chicken you'll love this place that gives a good version of Nashville chicken....the chicken has more of a dry rub appearance than the wet sauced chicken but was very good. The seasoning on their fries was good too! I want to go back to try a couple other things in the menu but as a first timer it was a neat stop! Service was good," wrote Yelp user Greg M.
Thea A./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken sandwich
What customers say: "It's good chicken. Pretty much that's all you need to know! The spicy version is cayenne pepper spicy, not actual hot chicken spicy. The Dan Dan fries aren't worth the price but the regular ones sure are - especially for their size. The chicken plate is a better buy than the sandwich based on how much you receive," wrote Yelp user Michael B.
Simon W./Yelp
What to order: Nashville hot chicken sandwich
What customers say: "The chicken is excellent. I ordered online and picked up. It was fresh hot and ready when I arrived. Staff was quick and friendly. I don't think that they have seating. I think it's just pick up or delivery. Damn good!" wrote Yelp user Michelle G.
David C./Yelp
What to order: Chicken wings
What customers say: "Great casual korean bunsik (street food) style food. The restaurant is clean and spacious with ample amount of sunlight and the staff is very attentive. The food was tasty without being overly spicy or salty. We love the fried chicken because the batter wasnt too thick and the chicken was meaty. […] Highly recommend and will definitely be back to try more," wrote Yelp user Christin K.
John K./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken tenders
What customers say: "Rocky's never disappoints. Delicious food, friendly staff! Our only wish is that they would open one in Charleston, SC next," wrote Yelp user Maegen J.
George E./Yelp
What to order: Classic chicken sandwich
What customers say: "I got the mushroom burger and it was so juicy and so well seasoned... it might be the best burger in town! My husband got the Dive Burger and he said he was glad I picked this spot to eat. The onion rings were the crunchiest juiciest onion rings I've ever had in my life! I felt like I was at the fair but better. […] Also loved the ambiance, we chose to sit in the front so our twins could run around. There are even games you can play while you wait, " wrote Yelp user Carrie Y.
Kristi D./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Came with a large group. Order was done quick & perfect! Recommend the biscuits with strawberry jam & chicken. Not sure how they make their chicken but you'll be craving it the next day. Outlets near tables to charge your phones. Large, accessible parking lot too!" wrote Yelp user Alice N.
Streets Fine Chicken/Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "This is the best fried chicken I've tried inside of a restaurant. I've had good home cooked fried chicken. You can lift the skin and it's like a thick wafer of crunchy battered skin. I highly recommend sticking to the chicken and biscuits. The honey butter biscuits had me! So warm, moist and perfectly dense and sweet. […] Can't wait to be back in the area!" wrote Yelp user Jackie G.
Jacqueline T./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "This spot is the best in Moab - So much character and remarkable service! I loved my pumpkin streusel coffee cake donut so much that I returned the next day for lunch, and the chicken was really great too!! Will highly recommend to anyone visiting Moab! Also - They have a surprisingly good matcha latte!!" wrote Yelp user Aleah H.
Angelica P./Yelp
What to order: Rough Francis sandwich
What customers say: "When I saw $26 for two pieces of fried chicken with sides, I rolled my eyes. Is Vermont this expensive? That is until multiple people said 'this is the best damn chicken in the country'. Let me tell you, this is the best fried chicken I have ever had in the entire country. I don't know how they get the chicken this crispy but it is worth every penny. The chicken goes excellent with the biscuit that's provided. The baked beans are also a big hit. I can't believe I'm saying this but I would come here again and pay for a whole bird," wrote Yelp user Arjun A.
Chris C./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "We ordered two chicken sandwiches, one medium and one hot. The medium was the perfect spice level for me and the hot wasn't too overwhelming either. The breading on the chicken is unlike any other chicken spot I've been to. It's super thick and super crunchy, almost like it's double fried. The fries are a must get too. They are seasoned like crazy and have a big crisp to it. I could've done without the heaping portion of coleslaw but I was able to remove some it. This place is a no frills chicken sandwich shop and can easily stand up to the big names in the area," wrote Yelp user Salman C.
Nelson L./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sandwich
What customers say: "The restaurant is pretty big with a bar. When I first looked at the menu it was pretty pricey but then when the food came out, I understood why. The portions are massive! I got seattle spice chicken tenders and it came with 3 huge pieces with a side of mac and cheese. The chicken was so flavorful and perfect amount of spice for me. It was juicy and crispy. My friends got the nashville and they said it was good but the spice was only in certain spots. The mac and cheese was soooo goood. I'm already planning my next trip back. The quality and the quantity is so much better than dave's hot chicken. Our waitress was very patient and kind. She made our experience great!" wrote Yelp user Jessica L.
Vikki P./Yelp
What to order: Three-piece Southern fried chicken combo
What customers say: "If I had my choice I wouldn't eat anywhere else. The food the service All A1! If I had to recommend one thing I couldn't, not just one, the entire menu and meal is outstanding!! Shout out to the owners servers and staff! I'll be back sooner than later. Thank you for giving me such an amazing authentic Soul-food experience," wrote Yelp user Eric R.
Rick R./Yelp
What to order: Fried chicken
What customers say: "Stopped by at 5:30 and ran into a line out the door, it moved pretty quickly! We ordered fried pickles, chicken tenders, and the hot chicken sandwich! All were delicious - the dipping sauces are all amazing. Hot honey and dilly ranch were faves. Finished our lovely meal with a banana sundae! Yum! Great vibes and service," wrote Yelp user Taylor D.
Stacie M./Yelp
What to order: Chicken sando
What customers say: "Oh, this place was perfect for our dinner stop as we were passing through Gillette. The service was superb, and best we could tell, all of our food was cooked fresh to order. The fresh cut fries were absolutely delicious, including the Parmesan option. My husband throughly enjoyed his buffalo chicken sandwich as well. There is no indoor seating, but we loved that we could sit outside. The kids had a place to run around as we waited for our food. So happy I found this place!" wrote Yelp user Nancy K.