Crispy Crunchy Chicken
Let’s face it. Everybody loves a golden-brown piece of hot fried chicken. Whether you are a wing or a thigh person, nothing beats that first bite where you here that crunch. In honor of National Fried Chicken Day (July 6th) … yes, it’s really a thing. In no particular order, here is our list of the Top 10 Favorite Places for Fried Chicken in NYC.
Taste of Heaven
This Soul Food eatery in Brooklyn is a hidden gem. The fried chicken is finger lickin’ good, and for $5 for 3 pieces, you can’t go wrong! Come for the chicken, but while you’re there, pick up some of their delicious sides: like mac & cheese and candied yams. Oh, and don’t forget to ask about the Daily Specials.
Pecking House
We love spicy here at WBFF so we go for the Picante Chicken Sandwich. Can’t take the heat? Try the regular Chicken Sandwich. It comes with caramelized onions and soy pickles, with a brioche bun. Add an extra $8 for some Foie Gras to any order (if you wanna be fancy). This place also has a chicken meal dinner that lets you choose your flavor. Plenty of options, all pretty amazing.
Bobwhite Counter
For over 14 years, you could treat yourself to a classic Bobwhite Counter chicken sandwich. Sure, you can also try the salads or the wraps, but this piece is about fried chicken. If you’ve been in New York long enough someone has already recommended this spot to you for good reason. Fried chicken breast on a toasted roll. It’s simple and it’s really good. They recently added a location in Queens, but their Avenue C location is the only one that offers the bucket of chicken, and it’s definitely worth the commute. Wherever you go, don’t forget to wash it all down with one their Arnold Palmers.
Sweet Chick
If you’re anything like us, you probably first heard of Sweet Chick if you’re a fan of Nas. Walk into any location and you’re automatically greeted with hip hop music and unique cocktail drink names on the menu. Order the Chicken & Waffles or the Sweet Chick Bucket which comes with three crunchy pieces of chicken, a buttermilk biscuit, and a side. This is definitely the place to go for good vibes and seasoned chicken.
Fuku
Exclusive to New York City, this fast-food restaurant created by celebrity Chef David Chang, puts a mouthwatering spin on chicken. Come here and try a plate of their wings, tenders, or one of their infamous sandos (aka a juicy fried chicken sandwich). They have four different sandos but our favorite is the Knockout Sando. It comes on a potato roll with seasoned cabbage, pickles, and a special knockout sauce. Wait, did we mention they have a sandwich that comes on a King’s Hawaiian Sweet Roll? Yeah, let that sink in…
Harlem Shake
You hardly hear about a burger shop that has good chicken sandwiches, but here it is, introducing Harlem Shake. Since 2013, this neighborhood chain has been cooking up comfort food that is popular amongst the locals. They have four different types of buttermilk-brined fried chicken breast sandwiches that come on a buttered Martin's potato roll. Our favorite is the Jerk Chicken Sandwich, which comes with Caribbean slaw and homemade pickles.
Rokstar Chicken
Headed to the grocery store? Who would imagine that there is a savory secret hidden inside. Run to the nearest Food Bazaar Supermarket, in Queens or Harlem, and you’ll find R.O.K. (Republic of Korea). Their Korean fried chicken is always halal and bursting with herbs & spices. You can get the Famous Chicken Sandwich, regular or spicy, and also pick your sauce. The crispy thigh meat comes with coleslaw on potato roll.
Rowdy
If you’re looking for a unique twist on fried chicken, then you need to try a signature crispy chicken sandwich from Rowdy Rooster. They have two locations in Manhattan to choose from, and both serve well-seasoned, white or dark meat selections of Indian Fried Chicken. All their sandwiches come with pickled onions, sesame yogurt, and a mint chutney. And if you’re into spice, this place was made for you. Pick your heat level: Rebel (mild), Rogue, or Rowdy- Spicy (if you’re feeling brave).
Chicky’s
Come hungry and leave with a smile. That is the WBFF personal motto whenever we visit a Chicky’s. All of their chicken is hormone and antibiotic-free. A must-try is the Mac N' Chicky’s Sandwich (fried chicken breast topped with gooey mac & cheese). All of their sandwiches are served on a warm brioche bun. Next time you visit the Bronx or Queens make sure you stop by.
Pies n’ Thighs
Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this cozy restaurant has a sandwich that is sure to please. The Chicken Biscuit is a crispy chicken cutlet on a warm buttermilk biscuit, slathered in hot sauce and honey butter. Ok, it’s not a sandwich but totally worth it. You can also order the Fried Chicken Box where you’ll get three pieces of crunchy fried chicken with a side of your choice…and also that warm buttermilk biscuit. Out of town? Pies n’ Thighs offers nationwide shipping. And don’t leave without ordering a slice of the Sour Cherry Pear pie to-go!