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Guide to Chicago

Fried chicken spots

Fried chicken that stays crispy through the last bite, not a soggy mess that loses its crunch halfway through.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mambo Wings image 1
Mambo Wings image 2
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Asian restaurant

Small Asian restaurant offers a quiet, friendly atmosphere with a student-friendly vibe. The space feels comfortable and cute, featuring tables and a kiosk for ordering. Known for delicious fried chicken wings and thoughtful sauce presentation, it balances great flavors with affordable prices.

Whiting fish comes hot and crispy with crispy, salty fries. The fish is a solid choice for anyone who likes fried fish and chicken.

Wings have a just right breading that is not overly fried. They taste like fried chicken with batter or breading and come out very good.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and of amazing quality."

"The fish here is so hot and crispy."

"I found the fried chicken wings to be delicious."

Good to know

1

You can order at the counter or through the kiosk on the right.

2

I paid just over $5 for 6 juicy wings, which I considered a great deal.

3

Serving the sauce on the side helps preserve the wings' crispiness.

02
JJ Fish and Chicken image 1
Fried chicken takeaway

Fried chicken takeaway with a fast-paced and friendly atmosphere, maintaining a clean environment throughout. Food arrives fresh and features standout items like well-seasoned fried chicken and catfish nuggets. The place operates efficiently with minimal wait times and offers great deals on its menu.

Fish comes out fresh and crispy, cooked perfectly every time. The extra lemon pepper option adds a nice kick, and the white sauce pairs well with the flavor.

Fresh fried chicken stands out with crispy coating and juicy meat. Tenders and pieces offer consistent rich flavor and satisfying texture.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and fresh."

"The seafood here is always fresh and crispy."

"I thought the fried chicken here was the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and fresh food.

2

Expect minimal wait times during lunch hours.

3

Prices are competitive compared to similar fast food options.

03
Club 81 Too image 1
Bar & grill

Back room of a tavern sets a cozy, homey vibe with a cramped dining area. Regulars enjoy seafood and fried chicken specialties with reasonable prices. Quiet atmosphere with mostly couples dining and a local neighborhood feel.

Fried fish stands out as a specialty, especially on Wednesday and Friday nights. The fish fry features options like Walleye, paired often with chicken as a highlight.

Fried chicken here stays crispy and juicy every time. It tastes exceptionally delicious and holds up as great fried chicken in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood here was hot and fresh."

"I thought their fish fry was great."

"The fried chicken is always crisp and juicy."

Good to know

1

Food is not available on Sundays at this location.

2

Gratuity is included in the bill, which may not be clearly indicated.

3

Prices are fair for the portion sizes offered.

04
Rickshaw Pakistani & Indian Street Eats image 1

Custom murals from a local artist decorate the space, creating a unique visual backdrop. The atmosphere is straightforward and clean, with no background music to fill the quiet. The menu offers large portions of halal Pakistani and Indian street food at very reasonable prices, attracting those seeking authentic flavors and good value.

Lahori fried fish stands out with its flavorful and succulent texture. Portions come in generous sizes and the dish lives up to its traditional name.

Crispy, flavorful, and tender fried chicken stands out here. The Chicken Charga is a highlight and ranks among the favorites in town.

People are saying

"This Indian food's biryani is emotional and the best I've ever tasted."

"The Lahori fish fry is flavorful and succulent."

"The fried chicken here is crispy, flavorful, and tender."

Good to know

1

The biryani costs $11 and can provide 2-4 meals.

2

Naan is priced at $2 each, which is reasonable for the quality.

3

There is paid parking available on both sides of the restaurant.

05
Palilgu image 1
Korean restaurant

Modern Korean restaurant with soft lighting and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Cocktails stand out, featuring drinks like the Garuso Boulevard and Korean tea old fashioned. Seating is plentiful but tables sit close together, and music keeps energy lively without overwhelming conversation.

Miso marinated sable fish stands out with its miso glaze and rich flavor. It pairs well with lighter dishes like the endive and pear salad.

Korean Fried Chicken stands out with its crispy, crunchy texture. The fried chicken is well executed and consistently crispy across visits.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is fantastic, especially the crispy fried chicken."

"I found the fried chicken to be amazing and crispy."

"You have to try the miso sable fish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until 7 pm, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Portion sizes are small, similar to tapas, so consider ordering multiple dishes.

3

The restaurant accommodates vegetarians with substantial options on the menu.

06
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy dรฉcor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Fish and grits stand out with well-seasoned, tasty fish filets. The fried egg rolls also pair well with the fish dishes.

Southern fried chicken stands out with perfect seasoning and moist, flavorful breast meat. It pairs well with macaroni and cheese and collard greens, all cooked to perfection.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The fried chicken here is so moist and flavorful."

"The fish here is perfectly seasoned and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

07
Jerk & Soul Food image 1

Restaurant offers calm, comforting atmosphere with simple, no-frills setup and countertop seating along windows. Food is freshly cooked to order with large portions that favor takeout over dine-in. Jerk dishes stand out for being hot and tender, making it a go-to spot for authentic flavors.

Fried fish stands out with its crispy texture and solid flavor. It pairs well with cabbage and mac & cheese sides that complement the dish.

Fried chicken comes with sides like mac and cheese, rice and beans, or greens. Plantains and jerk wings also appear alongside the fried chicken dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The fried chicken here is fresh and flavorful."

"The fried fish here was really good and on point."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for food as everything is cooked fresh to order.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant does not include jerk sauce unless specifically requested.

08
The Soul Food Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Small, contemporary space combines live jazz saxophone with beautiful decor to create an inviting atmosphere. The vibe feels intimate and soulful, drawing a crowd that appreciates well-crafted soul food and a relaxed setting.

Fish dishes feature seasoned and fried catfish and a Creole dressing with fish and shrimp. The menu includes gumbo, Mac & cheese with seafood, and a southern-style dressing with mashed yams.

Fire Maple Glazed Fried Chicken stands out with a sweet and smoky flavor. The fried chicken is consistently delicious and pairs well with sides like collard greens and yams.

People are saying

"The American Food here is phenomenal, especially the perfectly seasoned yams."

"The fried chicken here is so juicy and flavorful."

"You get enough fish here to feed a small army."

Good to know

1

Restaurant Week 2024 offers a $59 deal for three entrees of your choice.

2

The lounge does not serve liquor, but customers can BYOB with a corkage fee.

3

Reservations are recommended, but tables are often available without one.

09
Byrd's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, clean space with quirky action figures and car decorations adds personality to a cozy vibe. Atmosphere stays surprisingly quiet without music, creating a calm dining experience. Friendly patrons contribute to a welcoming environment despite simple, dated seating.

Fish comes as fish fingers in the fish and chips options. The fish and chips sandwich gets an 8 out of 10 rating and is generally tasty. Chips in the sandwich can be soggy by delivery time.

Hot fried chicken sandwiches deliver a good spicy kick and come with an option for extra pickles. The chicken is halal and consistently flavorful.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is juicy, tender, and perfectly crunchy."

"The fish and chips sandwich was a pleasant surprise."

"I found the fried chicken here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available for customers at Byrd's Hot Chicken.

2

The bathroom facilities are reported to be dirty and poorly maintained.

3

The prices at Byrd's Hot Chicken are considered high for the portion sizes.

10
Soul Prime image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with modern contemporary design and soulful R&B music creates an intimate, joyful vibe. Music plays continuously, mixing gospel and 90s throwbacks, setting a family block party atmosphere. Spacious bar and warm hospitality add to the welcoming energy.

Fried chicken comes perfectly seasoned with a crispy crust and juicy inside. It pairs well with creamy mac and cheese and collard greens for a classic Southern meal.

People are saying

"The fried chicken and mac and cheese are soul-warming American food."

"The fish here is so fresh, I loved it."

"The fried chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for parties of three or more on weekends.

2

Happy Hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6 p.m., with $3-$9 food options.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:30 p.m., so arrive early for dinner.

11
Hienie's Shrimp House image 1
American restaurant

Small to medium space with a run-down interior and no seating available. Crowds gather during peak lunch hours, creating a busy atmosphere. Known for fried chicken, fried shrimp, and pizza, it offers reasonable prices and quick, inexpensive meals.

Fish sandwich stands out as a favorite, served with French fries. Fried fish and fish nuggets come alongside shrimp and chicken options, all known for their solid, tasty quality.

Fried chicken here is juicy and cooked to perfection, with a taste that reminds of home cooking. Portions include large breasts and thighs, all offered at a great price.

People are saying

"The shrimp and fish here are amazing and fresh."

"I enjoyed the delicious fried fish here."

"I thought the fried chicken here was the best on the south side."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours due to high customer volume.

2

Daily specials offer the best value for budget-conscious diners.

3

The facility is clean and organized, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

12
Eat Fine Design By Khun Kung image 1

Small dining room with well-spaced tables and classic Thai decorations creates a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Background features melodious traditional music at a pleasing volume. Limited seating and reservation-only policy keep the space quiet and intimate.

Minced fish and curry baked in a coconut shell create the Hor Mok Talay, a dish with an explosive flavor that requires pre-ordering. The Po Tak Talay seafood soup combines prawns, fish, scallops, squid, mussels, and crab with chilies, lemongrass, lime leaves, and herbs like galangal and mint.

Hat Yai fried chicken comes with a salty flavor. Fried fish nearby has a strange taste and smell. Crispy chive cakes and herbal rice salad often accompany the chicken dishes.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Thai food here to be unlike any other."

"The fish here is delicious and artfully presented."

"I found the fried chicken here super tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

Expect authentic Thai spice levels; start with mild if unsure.

13
Soul Vibez - Chicago image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with only a few booths creates an intimate setting. Stylish decor and a bumping sound system set a great vibe with amazing music. Authentic soul food pairs with exceptional cocktails, making the atmosphere lively and distinctive.

Fish comes out fried to perfection with a crispy texture. It pairs well with fries and cornbread that meet expectations.

Wings come seasoned and fried to perfection with good size. Hot lemon pepper flavor stands out and delivers consistent taste. Fried chicken pairs well with sides like mac & cheese and collard greens.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The fried chicken here is seasoned and fried to perfection."

"The fried fish crust was perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm with $10 drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended as wait times can exceed one hour.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait if arriving shortly after opening.

14
Soule To Soule image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with green velvet decor and 1990s Harlem vibe feels more like a bar or lounge than a traditional restaurant. Cozy, intimate atmosphere pairs with top-tier R&B music and lively energy. Tables are low and tiny, emphasizing a focus on cocktails and socializing over formal dining.

Fish and grits melt in your mouth with fresh, hot servings. Catfish is actually swai fish, served alongside sides like dirty rice.

Well seasoned and juicy describes the fried chicken here. It comes with a honey glaze and cooks perfectly, often paired with collard greens and grits.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and amazing."

"The fish and dirty rice were good."

"I thought the fried chicken was possibly the best I had."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended due to limited seating.

2

It's BYOB with a $10 fee for bringing your own bottle.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

15
Legends Chicken & Fish image 1

Restaurant offers a clean, bright atmosphere with artwork and artifacts adorning the walls. A sectioned-off room with TV and game slots allows for social distancing and group dining. Known for fresh fried chicken and catfish, it maintains affordable prices and a lively, welcoming vibe.

Fish comes out breaded and cooked perfectly with consistent seasoning. The frying technique stands out as award-worthy, making it a go-to for fried fish.

Fresh and made to order, the fried chicken comes out tasty but requires a wait. Food quality stands out despite slower service.

People are saying

"The owner's food generosity means you get more than you expect."

"The fried fish here is seasoned and delicious."

"I found the fried chicken here to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with five chicken legs for $5.99.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for orders placed over the phone.

3

No fries come with the food, so plan accordingly.

16
Cleoโ€™s - Loop image 1
American restaurant

Small space with just a few tables and stools creates an intimate setting. Music, including 90s RnB videos, adds to the chill vibes and welcoming atmosphere. The place feels like a cozy gathering spot with friendly energy.

Fried fish comes out hot and fresh with a well-seasoned, spicy flavor. The combination of the Remoulade sauce adds a sweet and salty balance that complements the fish perfectly.

Fried chicken comes fresh and juicy with a spicy kick and perfect seasoning. It pairs well with sides like golden muffins and stands out for its extra crunchy texture.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the catfish, is the best I've ever tasted."

"This fish is the best I have ever tasted."

"The fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and seasoned with a kick."

Good to know

1

Order ahead for takeout as food is made to order and takes time.

2

Cleoโ€™s does not accept cash; credit cards only.

3

Be prepared for a wait of over an hour on busy weekends.

17
Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant combines robotic food delivery with a live DJ playing old school R&B, creating a lively and modern vibe. Walls display Chicago-themed artwork honoring athletes and entertainers, adding local character. Spacious seating supports a sports bar atmosphere with a slight Black Art influence.

Fried fish stands out with perfect frying and fresh taste. Platters often include shrimp and chicken wings, all cooked well and flavorful.

Fried chicken wings come out crispy and flavorful. The fried chicken and ribs combo pairs well and tastes delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is always amazing and fire."

"The fried chicken wings were crispy and delicious."

"The fish here is very good, I rated it 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $10 cocktails and small plate combos.

2

Expect small portion sizes during happy hour.

3

The restaurant automatically adds gratuity to all bills.

18
Jimmys Best image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers hot, fresh fried chicken and shrimp with reasonable prices and quick service. Clean facility maintains a good atmosphere despite lacking air conditioning.

Fish comes mostly fried with a dry texture inside, similar to jerky. It lacks seasoning, with no lemon pepper or other spices added.

Fried chicken here comes with a wait of about 30 minutes. The chicken has a crispy texture and a flavorful taste that stands out.

People are saying

"I thought the food was very good and reasonably priced."

"I usually loved the fried fish here."

"I really enjoyed their fried chicken."

Good to know

1

Food is typically ready in about 15 minutes after ordering.

2

Lunch and dinner meals are available for $5 each, plus taxes.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

19
Seafood City Supermarket image 1

Supermarket resembles a little Philippines town with a huge variety of Asian food products and multiple Filipino restaurants including a Jollibee outlet. Atmosphere feels like home with a pleasant, welcoming vibe and plenty of seating for dining. Seafood section allows picking fresh fish to be cleaned and cooked on site.

Fresh fish comes with a wide selection and high quality cuts. Butchers offer helpful service including cleaning and cooking fish on request.

Soft, delicious meat defines the fried chicken here, especially from Jollibee and Max Fried Chicken. The foodcourt offers a unique Filipino taste and a cleaner, inviting setting with a dedicated fried chicken stand.

People are saying

"I found so many great Filipino foods here, I didn't miss the Philippines."

"I found the fresh fish here to be of high quality."

"I thought the fried chicken here was the best ever."

Good to know

1

Seafood City Supermarket offers a wide variety of Asian food products.

2

Expect higher prices compared to local American groceries and Asian stores.

3

The supermarket closes at 7:30 pm, earlier than many expect.

20
MacArthur's Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers a warm and inviting ambiance with a casual, cafeteria-style vibe that feels like grandma's house. Atmosphere stays chill and friendly, making it suitable for relaxed meals. Decor shows signs of age but adds to the sense of history.

Well cooked and flavorful fish stands out here. The fried fish comes with yams, greens, and mac, making it a popular choice to order more of.

Fresh and hot fried chicken delivers authentic southern flavor with perfect seasoning. The fried chicken pairs well with sides like collard greens and meatloaf, all cooked just right.

People are saying

"The fried chicken here is crispy, juicy, and full of authentic southern flavor."

"I enjoyed the perfectly seasoned fried chicken."

"The fish here is so well cooked and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a free parking lot and ample street parking.

2

Expect a long line, often around 60 people, during peak hours.

3

Meals, dessert, and a drink cost around $15.

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