When it comes to fast food, few things spark more debate than fried chicken. Whether you crave crispy wings drenched in sauce or perfectly seasoned tenders with a side of iconic dipping sauce, there’s no shortage of chains claiming to serve the best. But not all fried chicken is created equal. Let’s take a look at the ultimate fast-food fried chicken rankings.
1. bb.q Chicken
bb.q Chicken is famous for its Korean-style fried chicken, which has been perfected through a double-frying technique. This technique creates a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. They offer many different flavors, ranging from Soy Garlic to Golden Original. bb.q Chicken delivers a less greasy, more refined take on fried chicken.
2. Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s is a popular chain that focuses on simplicity. It specializes in golden, hand-battered chicken fingers. Each chicken tender is marinated for 24 hours, and the crispy coating is perfectly seasoned. The chain is also known for its signature Cane’s Sauce, which pairs excellently with its fried chicken.
3. Popeyes
Popeyes is one of the most recognizable fried chicken chains in the United States. It is known for its bold Louisiana flavors and signature fried chicken. The crunchy, spicy batter is perfectly seasoned while the meat remains juicy and tender. Its Spicy Chicken Sandwich is also a fan favorite!
4. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is another popular chain in the U.S. Its fried chicken is pressure-cooked to perfection, which results in tender, flavorful meat with a light, crispy coating. This chain is famous for its iconic Chick-fil-A Sandwich and Chick-n-Strips. Chick-fil-A is known for its quality and consistency, making it one of the best fried chicken chains in America.
5. Wingstop
Wingstop is another favorite with its freshly fried tenders and wings that are cooked to order. While the plain tenders are solid on their own, they excel when paired with Wingstop’s extensive range of sauces, including fan favorites like Garlic Parmesan and Lemon Pepper. The chain’s focus on customization and bold flavors makes it a top choice for wing lovers looking for variety.
6. KFC
KFC remains a global icon thanks to its secret blend of 11 herbs and spices that give its fried chicken a distinctive flavor. The thin yet flavorful coating complements the juicy meat inside. While KFC may not always deliver the crispiest texture, its nostalgic appeal and consistent seasoning keep it a top contender in fast-food fried chicken.
7. Jollibee
Jollibee’s Chickenjoy is so good that it has earned international acclaim for its crispy coating and succulent meat. This Filipino favorite stands out with its slightly sweet and savory flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional American fried chicken. It is usually paired with Jollibee’s signature gravy or served with spaghetti.
8. Checkers & Rally’s
Checkers & Rally’s is famous for its bold flavor. Their Fry-Seasoned Tenders is a fan favorite. These tenders are coated in the same zesty seasoning as their famous fries, which is why they’re so flavorful! Although their portions might be smaller than those of their competitors, their unique flavor and affordable price make them a favorite among fried chicken enjoyers.
9. Sonic Drive-In
Sonic delivers reliable fried chicken options like crispy tenders and sandwiches that are known for their solid flavor. While they are not Sonic’s specialty, their tenders are well-seasoned and pair well with an array of dipping sauces. Sonic’s appeal lies in its variety. Fried chicken is just one part of their extensive menu that satisfies fast-food cravings.
10. Arby’s
Arby’s crispy tenders are known for their peppery breading that delivers bold flavors with every bite. Although the chain is best known for its roast beef sandwiches, Arby’s fried chicken is surprisingly satisfying. However, their seasoning may be too intense for some people, making them less versatile compared to milder options from other chains.
11. Zaxby’s
Zaxby’s specializes in Southern-style chicken fingers with bold seasoning and crispy breading that locks in moisture. Their chicken is usually paired with Zax Sauce or other dipping options. Although Zaxby’s delivers on flavor, it can be inconsistent across locations. While not as widely known as Raising Cane’s or Chick-fil-A, it holds its own among regional favorites.
12. Smashburger Fried Chicken
Smashburger offers fried chicken sandwiches and tenders as alternatives to their beef burgers but struggles to stand out in this competitive category. While decent in quality, their chicken lacks the crispiness or bold flavors found at more specialized chains. Smashburger is better known for its burgers than its attempts at fried chicken.