Fried chicken is a crowd-pleaser. This classic comfort food goes over well with all ages, and there’s something particularly good about it in the summertime. We checked out some favorite family-friendly places to find fabulous fried chicken around the Chicago area.
White Fence Farm
This Romeoville establishment is celebrating its 65th year. In addition to amazing chicken and beloved corn fritters, there is a lot for families to see and do. Visiting the farm animals is a huge hit with kids. Goats, alpacas and a llama call the farm home and guests can pet and feed them through the white fence. The restaurant also has an antique collection that feels a little like the shop in Toy Story 4 and also some antique cars to check out.
1376 Joliet Rd., Romeoville
The Roost Carolina Chicken
A North Carolina native who wanted a really great chicken biscuit decided to create his own. He first sold them out of a food truck starting in 2012, and then a restaurant, and now several restaurants. You quickly understand why the business grew so quickly once you bite into the flaky buttermilk biscuit and crisp, delicious fried chicken. We think that the Random 6 Piece chicken option is a great way to save some money while keeping the tastebuds happy.
Various locations in Chicago
Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket
This classic restaurant has the tagline “Get your chicks on Route 66” because it was once an essential stop along the iconic road. The restaurant has been operating since 1946 and is still famous for its fried chicken. Marinating the chicken for 24 hours prior to cooking is one of the ways they make it so flavorful. If you have big eaters, consider taking advantage of the lunch buffet on weekdays. There are several options on the kids’ menu, including a chicken tender basket and a chicken leg basket.
645 Joliet Rd., Willowbrook
Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Honey Butter Fried Chicken
We’ve established that fried chicken is good, right? Well, fried chicken with honey butter drizzled on top of it is even better. That’s what you’ll get at the aptly-named Honey Butter Fried Chicken, a casual counter-service restaurant in Avondale. An added bonus is that they source their antibiotic-free chicken from Miller Amish Farms in Indiana and their honey from Wisconsin. While the honey butter may be a little sticky, all the chicken except drumsticks is boneless. They say that after countless tests, they determined it was tastier that way. We found that it was easier for littles to eat, too.
3361 N. Elston, Chicago
Wishbone North
Wishbone North has been a great option for families for a long while now, and it’s a great choice when you’re craving fried chicken but need a menu that offers other options, too. The pan-fried chicken is available on Thursdays, the same day that kids eat free from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Coincidence? We think not. (It’s also available on Sundays.) Chicken and waffles are on the menu every day, and don’t miss the other Southern favorites, including the Cajun fried okra and fried green tomatoes.
3300 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
Peach’s
This Bronzeville breakfast and lunch spot is great for those who recognize that great fried chicken can happen at any time of day, and it’s a delicious way to start the day. At Peach’s, they put a unique spin on the breakfast front and serve their yummy fried chicken with cinnamon french toast and sweet honey butter. (See above on how honey butter with fried chicken is fabulous.)
4652 S. King Drive, Chicago
Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
If you’ve had one of those weeks, get a sitter and head out with your favorite grownups for an evening of adult conversation and chef Art Smith’s famous fried chicken. That fantastic combo in a charming atmosphere has the power to make everything seem a bit better. If you opt for brunch, the fried chicken and waffles served with rosemary maple syrup is really tasty.
52 W. Elm St., Chicago
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