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Top picks in Nashville

Fried chicken lunch spots

A lunch-hour fried chicken fix that respects your time without sacrificing the crunch.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers old school Americana decor and a great atmosphere for watching football or enjoying live music. The space attracts crowds for game days and concerts, creating lively energy without overwhelming noise. Large portions and reasonable prices complement the casual, friendly vibe.

Lunch offers great food with no wait even on a Friday. Multiple visits confirm it serves delicious meals suitable for a quick stop or a casual work break.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the fried chicken stands out for its perfectly done texture and affordable price. The fried chicken sandwich also gets strong recommendations for its flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is plentiful, delicious, and perfectly seasoned."

"I tasted the best fried chicken I ever had."

"The food at this lunch spot is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect no wait during lunch hours on Fridays.

2

The menu offers unique items not found in other downtown restaurants.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly with a straightforward menu.

02
Waldo's Chicken & Beer image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small restaurant with lots of TVs showing sports and a bar with good beer and margaritas. Atmosphere is super casual and lively, with loud 70s to 90s rock music and varied seating options. Decor feels welcoming and clean, creating a chill vibe for enjoying chicken dishes.

Roasted chicken features a well-balanced seasoning that is flavorful without being spicy. The spot offers a solid alternative to typical fried chicken chains for lunch.

Crispy fried chicken comes with sides like greens and potato wedges. Plates focus on classic, hearty flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and tasty."

"This lunch spot's food was amazing, especially the biscuits and banana pudding."

"I considered it my new favorite fried chicken spot."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $12 for a meal.

2

Happy hour is available daily with special deals.

3

Trivia night occurs weekly and is a fun event.

03
Kennedy Fried Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, clean space with minimal seating focuses on takeout and counter service. Atmosphere feels cozy and well-kept, with fresh, crispy halal chicken as the main draw. Limited parking and seating emphasize quick visits rather than dining in.

Freshly made 4-piece chicken tenders serve as a solid lunch option. The spot invites repeat visits for midday meals.

Fried chicken here is delicate and moist with a freshly fried texture that stands out. The chicken and fish are consistently finger lickin' good and often considered better than nearby competitors.

People are saying

"The fried fish and shrimp here are seasoned so well."

"I ate some of the best fried chicken I have ever eaten."

"This Lunch Spot's food is hot, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is primarily for takeout with limited seating available.

2

Parking is limited at the location, so plan accordingly.

3

The chicken served is halal, catering to specific dietary needs.

04
Hangry Joe's Hot Chicken & Wings image 1

Chicken restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with friendly environment and great music. Interior features colorful murals with a video game theme that add visual interest. Self-serve drink station and touch screens support a casual, convenient dining experience.

Lunch offers a Mega Sando that is larger than typical portions but priced well. The spot provides a nice atmosphere for a midday meal.

Fried chicken here offers a spicy kick and good flavor that surprises many. It lacks the typical crunch some expect but delivers a solid, tasty experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always served fresh."

"This lunch spot has the juiciest, crispiest chicken sandwich I've ever tasted."

"I found the fried chicken juicy with a crispy crust."

Good to know

1

The food is HALAL, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

Taste testing wing sauces is available to help choose your favorite.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and welcoming environment.

05
Hattie B's Hot Chicken - Nashville - Lower Broadway image 1

Crowded spot on a vibrant street with busy atmosphere and good music. Lines form consistently, reflecting its popularity and reasonable prices. Offers gluten-free options alongside classic hot chicken with notable spice and flavor.

Lines form but the chicken makes it worth the wait. This spot serves a stellar lunch popular for its hot chicken on Broadway.

Juicy and flavorful fried chicken stands out with a perfectly seasoned crust and a spicy kick. The hot fried chicken offers a distinctive Nashville heat that hits immediately on the nose and palate.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the hot chicken, is the best I've had."

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

"I thought the habanero spiced chicken sandwich was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long lines during peak hours.

2

Gluten-free options are available, including chicken tenders and sides.

3

The restaurant's policy requires you to order before taking a table.

06
Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles image 1

Restaurant offers a sleek and sophisticated interior with beautiful murals and a large bar area. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, featuring live jazz and spoken word performances that create a lively vibe. Private rooms and a party rental space add to its versatile setup.

Lunch offers a quiet meal with a cool setting. The menu features collard greens and a strong selection for lunch and dinner.

Crispy fried chicken delivers great flavor. It pairs well with gravy, rice, mac & cheese, and greens.

People are saying

"The food here is great, and the server Terrance was so attentive."

"The fried chicken here is delicious and always fresh."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken and waffles are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is a struggle at the restaurant, especially during peak hours.

2

Free parking in the back is limited and fills up quickly.

3

Kids eat free on Wednesdays, making it a great family option.

07
Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers image 1
Fast food restaurant

Two-level space overlooks Broadway with walls covered in Nashville-themed memorabilia and murals. A DJ plays music, creating a lively atmosphere that blends with the area's musical history. Exclusive Nashville merchandise and a statue in a red Nudie suit add unique local flair.

Lunch offers a quick, satisfying option with friendly service during busy hours. The spot fits well for a fast, enjoyable meal downtown when time is limited.

Crunchy fried chicken fingers come out hot and fresh every time. Strips and sandwiches offer consistent crispiness and freshness.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and a cheerful atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours; arrive early to avoid waiting.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider using a nearby parking garage.

3

The restaurant has multiple floors, with restrooms located on the second floor.

08
Big Al's Deli image 1

Small dining space with metal tables and folding chairs creates a humble, down-home vibe. Atmosphere feels like a welcoming neighborhood diner with a relaxed, family-like energy. Barstools and counter seats add to the casual, intimate setting.

Lunch servings come in large portions that can cover multiple meals. The food offers a phenomenal taste that draws repeat visits.

Fried chicken stands out as incredibly good and even out of this world. It pairs well with waffles and comes alongside other dishes like jerk chicken and fried catfish.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing, like a delicious home-cooked meal."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and wonderfully different."

"I had the best fried chicken and waffles I've ever experienced."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Parking is limited; consider arriving early or using nearby street parking.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak breakfast hours.

09
Hella Hot Chicken Donelson image 1

Small, clean restaurant offers fresh, perfectly seasoned hot chicken with generous portions and a chill, inviting atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming vibe while the space remains quiet and humble.

A small, hole in the wall spot with food ready on arrival makes it a quick choice for lunch. Early lunch visits show it works well for a casual midday meal.

Fried chicken comes out perfectly cooked, hot, and juicy with incredible tenderness. The fried chicken sandwich is very good and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken is fresh, seasoned perfectly, and delicious."

"I enjoyed the excellent fried chicken here."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait for the freshest chicken.

2

The restaurant offers a special of ten drums for $10.

3

Portions are large, providing good value for the price.

10
Arnold's Country Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Cafeteria style setup with school lunchroom charm creates a simple, unpretentious environment. Warm hospitality and friendly community vibe make it feel like eating at a friend's place. Quiet atmosphere with romantic music options adds to the cozy, down-home experience.

Long lines form during lunch but move quickly. The spot offers a friendly vibe with occasional romantic music for special moments.

Country fried chicken tastes like it was cooked in a cast iron skillet, just like Southern style. It comes with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, delivering a homestyle flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, authentic Southern style."

"You have to try the banana pudding; it's fantastic."

"This lunch spot's food is like a big hug from grandma."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on site for new customers who use the lot.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular items by brunch time.

11
Publix Super Market at Mt. View Marketplace image 1

Supermarket offers fresh produce and well-made sushi alongside a clean, organized layout. Prices tend to be higher than average, with a wide selection of food options. Bakery and deli items vary in quality but include some standout choices like Key Lime Pie and fried chicken.

Lunch options include a deli with quick selections and a variety of drinks like Gatorade and water. Service is friendly and efficient, making it a reliable spot for a fast lunch break.

Hot deli chicken stands out with its delicious fried chicken and wings. Staff sometimes hand out multiple boxes, showing confidence in their product.

People are saying

"I loved the deli's bakery items and fried chicken."

"This grocery store is one of the best I've been to."

"I thought their fried chicken was the best hot deli chicken around."

Good to know

1

The store is clean and well-organized, making shopping easy.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other supermarkets in the area.

3

The bakery offers excellent products, highly rated by customers.

12
400 Degrees image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers simple, cafeteria-style atmosphere with interesting wall artwork and selfie walls. Staff show pride and love in their work, creating a welcoming kitchen vibe. Wait times can be long due to made-to-order cooking, and the menu focuses on quality hot chicken with clear spice level descriptions.

Hot chicken draws a crowd by noon, often causing a full hour wait for lunch. The spot stays busy even during tough weather like snow storms.

Heat and flavor balance stands out in the fried chicken here. Even the unseasoned pieces deliver a distinctive taste that many find unmatched in the area.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and hot."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken is juicy, flavorful, and has a nice spicy kick."

"I thought this fried chicken was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times for to-go orders, especially during lunch hours.

2

Parking is available right in front of the restaurant.

3

The menu is simple, featuring only meats and a few sides.

13
BJ HOT CHICKEN image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers friendly, clean atmosphere with a casual, welcoming vibe and a well-decorated patio. The space feels simple and quaint, suitable for quick meals or relaxed visits. It maintains a busy but pleasant energy with consistent quality and reasonable prices.

Lunch service stays quick and courteous even during busy times. The spot offers solid, satisfying meals with attentive staff handling large groups smoothly.

Crispy, juicy, and tender fried chicken comes with a spicy, hot kick. The place stays very clean, making it a solid spot for fried chicken lovers.

People are saying

"This fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"This lunch spot's hot chicken is nose-drippingly good."

"The Mac and Cheese here tastes homemade and is so cheesy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 12:00 PM daily.

2

Expect a crowded dining area during lunch hours.

3

An additional fee of $2.59 applies for all flats on wing orders.

14
Paula Deen's Family Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Large dining space replicates a home kitchen with big windows overlooking the river and an elegant appearance. Bright, family-friendly atmosphere fills the room with lively energy, especially from children. A cute gift shop and play area add charm and entertainment while waiting.

Lunch offers a variety of meats and sides with biscuits and dessert all for under $20. Service is prompt with attentive refills, making it suitable for family gatherings or casual meals.

Fried chicken comes crispy and well-seasoned, with options for white or dark meat. It pairs with unique sides like candied yams and baked beans, offering a taste unlike typical fried chicken.

People are saying

"The family-style meals here are all-you-can-eat."

"This lunch spot serves amazing family-style Southern food."

"I tried the fried chicken and it was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

The restaurant does not allow customers to take leftovers home, only desserts.

3

All meals are served in family-sized portions, making it difficult for solo diners.

15
Onda Korean Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious two-story Korean restaurant with modern design and high ceilings creates a stylish, cozy atmosphere ideal for quiet dinners. Full bar offers creative cocktails alongside authentic Korean dishes with bold flavors. Upstairs seating provides privacy and a VIP-like view.

Lunch specials offer traditional Korean side dishes and come at a reasonable price. The spot provides a great dining experience for a midday meal.

Korean fried chicken wings come crispy, tender, and juicy with a BBQ sauce that balances kick and sweetness. Some orders arrive cold and taste like leftovers, making freshness inconsistent.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has fantastic, authentic Korean food."

"The Korean fried chicken here is crispy, tender, and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available for those parking in Skyhouse Nashville garage right next to the building.

2

The restaurant offers Bingsu, a popular Korean dessert not found elsewhere in Nashville.

3

The upstairs area is suitable for special events like bridal parties and business meetings.

16
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store image 1

Quirky American restaurant with cozy fireplace and adorable country store decor creates a warm, friendly atmosphere that feels like grandma's house. The place is often noisy but relaxing, welcoming guests with pleasant greetings and a calm vibe during quieter times.

Offers hot catered lunch that stays warm after travel. Serves classic Southern dishes like one-piece catfish. Provides a comfortable spot for casual Saturday brunch or lunch.

Fried chicken comes with gravy and pairs well with cheesy hashbrowns or fried okra. It appears alongside classic sides like biscuits and eggs or pancakes.

People are saying

"Our server made sure we always had biscuits."

"This lunch spot's food was delicious and fresh."

"I loved the fried chicken with gravy and cheesy hashbrowns."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect longer wait times during peak hours.

2

Turkey & Dressing is featured every Thursday, a popular menu item.

3

To-go orders may take longer than dine-in orders, especially during busy times.

17
Princeโ€™s Hot Chicken Tanger Outlets image 1

Large, modern chicken restaurant offers a spacious, clean environment with plenty of seating and live music including DJ and blues performances. The atmosphere feels energetic and inviting, enhanced by background music and occasional karaoke. The crowd is lively, often busy but with minimal wait times.

Lunch features hot chicken with options for takeout or dine-in. The spot fits well into a regular lunch rotation for those seeking spicy, flavorful meals.

Crispy fried chicken stands out here with an excellent crunch. Nashville Hot sauce tastes watered-down compared to others, making it feel like average fast food.

People are saying

"This American food, the hot chicken, is crispy, flavorful, and has that classic Nashville heat."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so quick and kind."

"I thought the fried chicken here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Everything is sold ร  la carte, which can make meals feel pricey.

2

Karaoke nights are hosted on Thursdays, starting at 8pm.

3

Parking can be difficult during holidays due to high traffic.

18
Flamies the hot chicken factory image 1

Space feels clean and welcoming with slightly better decor than typical fast-food spots. Atmosphere is peaceful and calming despite occasional loud music. Food focuses on crispy, juicy hot chicken with fresh cooking, attracting those who appreciate Nashville hot flavors.

Offers lunch specials with good value. Serves quick meals suitable for lunch or dinner.

Huge portions of fried chicken come with a mix of hot spicy wings and milder pieces. The texture leans toward steamed chicken, which differs from typical crispy fried styles.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"These chicken tenders are delicious, juicy, and full of hot flavor."

"I had one of the best fried chicken meals here."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch special that could be a good deal.

2

Expect slow service as food is cooked fresh.

3

The restaurant serves food in takeout boxes, making it hard to eat comfortably.

19
Barr's Music City Soul Food image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with beautiful decor creates a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. The menu offers fall-off-the-bone BBQ chicken and well-seasoned collards, drawing those who appreciate classic soul food. Takeout and delivery only, with prices reflecting generous portions.

Lunch specials offer reasonable prices around $17. Staff and customers create a friendly, family-like atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming.

Fried chicken stands out with its impressive flavor and satisfying crunch. It pairs well with sides like mac and spaghetti, making for a solid, hearty meal.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the mac and cheese, is delicious."

"The Lunch Spot food was phenomenal and perfectly seasoned."

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

Good to know

1

They only offer takeout or delivery.

2

The prices for the lunch special are reasonable at $17.

3

Expect to pay around $37.25 for two dinner plates.

20
Publix Super Market at The Crossings image 1

Wide aisles and bright lighting create an open, clean environment with unique cartoon art on the walls. The atmosphere feels lively and well-managed, with plenty of parking and easy self-checkout enhancing convenience. Seating inside and outside the deli adds to a relaxed shopping experience.

Deli subs and salads serve as quick lunch options here. Many choose to stop by before work or during lunch breaks for a grab-and-go meal without using online pick-up.

Fried chicken wings often require a wait of about 8 to 20 minutes. The chicken has a great flavor and is good enough to have as leftovers, but availability can be limited during busy times.

People are saying

"The grocery store staff are always willing to help you find products."

"I thought their fried chicken was great."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

The store is very clean and well stocked.

2

Parking is easy and convenient.

3

The deli counter may be empty during peak lunch hours.

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