If you’re on a quest to find the best fried chicken in America, you may want to visit indie establishments like Federal Donuts in Philadelphia, Busy Bee Cafe in Atlanta, and Chicken Annie’s and Chicken Mary’s in Pittsburg “No H” Kansas. However, if you’re sticking closer to home and are limited to chain chicken options, Popeye’s is the top choice according to customer reviews. Popeye’s bone-in chicken has received praise for its crispy coating, juicy meat, and flavorful spice marinade, which many prefer over KFC’s recipe. This has earned Popeye’s the top spot on the list of chain restaurant fried chicken.
While Popeye’s and KFC are known for their Southern-style fried chicken, two other chains in the top five offer a different twist on the classic dish. Third-ranked TKK, a Taiwanese chain with locations in 15 states and D.C., features Chinese-inspired spices in its proprietary blend. Customers appreciate the seasonings and enjoy the fact that the chicken is cooked fresh to order. Fifth-ranked Bonchon, a Korean chicken chain found in 25 states and D.C., offers Korean-style fried chicken with a batter-dipped exterior coated in a sweet and sticky sauce like soy garlic, spicy, or Korean barbecue. Reviewers find the sauce adds a unique dimension to the chicken.
In summary, if you’re seeking traditional Southern-style fried chicken, Popeye’s consistently delivers a tasty option. However, if you’re looking for a different culinary experience, Bonchon offers Korean-style fried chicken with a flavorful sauce that sets it apart. For a unique twist on fried chicken that isn’t too extreme, TKK’s Taiwanese-inspired spices provide a good alternative. Whether you’re traveling across the country in search of the best fried chicken or exploring chain options closer to home, there are plenty of delicious choices to satisfy your cravings.
