Craving the Crunch? Discover the Best Fried Chicken in Orange County!
Looking for the best fried chicken in Orange County? Check out our top picks and satisfy your cravings with crispy, juicy goodness!
If you're a fried chicken lover, Orange County has got you covered! With an abundance of options to choose from, finding the best fried chicken in Orange County can be overwhelming. But fret not, because we've put together a list of the top spots that serve up some of the crispiest, juiciest and most finger-licking good fried chicken in the county. So, whether you are looking for classic Southern-style fried chicken or something with a unique twist, we've got you covered!
First on our list is Crack Shack, a restaurant that has taken Orange County by storm with its delectable fried chicken. Located in Costa Mesa, this spot offers a variety of unique fried chicken dishes including the famous Firebird sandwich made with spicy fried chicken, crispy onions, pickles, and ranch dressing.
Next, we have Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles. This iconic restaurant has been serving up some of the best soul food in Orange County for over 40 years. Their signature dish, chicken and waffles, is a must-try. The perfectly seasoned and crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles and sweet syrup is a heavenly combination.
If you're looking for something a bit different, try out the Korean fried chicken at BBQ Chicken in Garden Grove. The chicken is coated in a crispy batter and then coated in a sweet and spicy glaze made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savory that will leave you wanting more.
For those who prefer organic and locally sourced ingredients, head over to Cluck Kitchen in Tustin. Their free-range chicken is marinated in a buttermilk brine and then coated in a special blend of spices before being fried to perfection. Their sides, such as mac and cheese and Brussels sprouts, are just as delicious as the main event.
Craving Nashville-style hot chicken? Look no further than Hot Chicken House in Fountain Valley. Their chicken is coated in a spicy blend of seasonings and served with a side of white bread, pickles, and coleslaw. The heat level can be adjusted to your liking, but beware, even their mild spice level is quite hot!
For those who like their fried chicken with a side of live music, check out Memphis Soul Cafe and Bar in Costa Mesa. Their fried chicken is juicy and flavorful, and their live music adds to the lively atmosphere of the restaurant.
If you're in the mood for some fast-food-style fried chicken, head over to Wingstop in Irvine. Their wings are crispy and come in a variety of flavors, including classic buffalo, lemon pepper, and garlic parmesan. They also have a variety of sides, such as fries and potato salad, to complete your meal.
Looking for a more upscale dining experience? Try out Chef Amar Santana's take on fried chicken at Vaca in Costa Mesa. His version is made with a buttermilk brine and coated in a seasoned flour before being fried to perfection. It's served with a side of crispy potatoes and salsa brava, making for a delicious and sophisticated meal.
For those who prefer some heat with their fried chicken, try out the hot chicken at Flock & Fowl in Anaheim. Their chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and then coated in a cayenne pepper-based sauce that packs a serious punch. It's served with a side of slaw and pickles to help cool down your taste buds.
Last but not least, we have The Crack Shack's cousin, Coop-A-Loop in Newport Beach. Their fried chicken is made with cage-free birds and is coated in a flavorful batter before being fried to perfection. Their sides, such as mac and cheese and coleslaw, are just as delicious as the chicken.
Overall, Orange County has a plethora of options for those who love fried chicken. From classic Southern-style to Korean-inspired, there's something for everyone. So, grab a fork and get ready to indulge in some of the best fried chicken in the county!
Introduction
Fried chicken is one of the most beloved comfort foods in America, and Orange County has some of the best fried chicken restaurants around. Whether you're in the mood for classic Southern-style fried chicken or something with a bit of a twist, Orange County has got you covered. In this article, we'll be exploring some of the best fried chicken spots in the area.Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is a Memphis-based chain that has made its way to Orange County. Known for its spicy fried chicken and secret recipe hot sauce, Gus's has quickly become a favorite among locals. The chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with just the right amount of heat. Be prepared to wait in line, though - this place gets busy.Crack Shack
Crack Shack is a popular fried chicken joint with locations in both Costa Mesa and Los Angeles. Their menu features a variety of chicken dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and buckets of fried chicken. The standout item, however, is their Firebird sandwich, which is made with spicy fried chicken, pickled Fresno chilies, and crispy onions. It's a must-try for any spice lover.The Attic
The Attic in Long Beach is known for its Southern-inspired comfort food, and their fried chicken is no exception. Their signature dish is the Attic Buttermilk Fried Chicken, which is served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and collard greens. The chicken is brined in buttermilk overnight, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy.Ways & Means Oyster House
Ways & Means Oyster House in Huntington Beach may be known for their seafood, but their fried chicken is not to be missed. Their Chicken & Waffles dish features crispy fried chicken served on top of a Belgian waffle, with maple syrup and spicy honey butter on the side. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory.Memphis Soul Cafe & Bar
Memphis Soul Cafe & Bar in Costa Mesa is another Southern-inspired restaurant that serves up some amazing fried chicken. Their Memphis-style hot chicken is a fan favorite, with just the right amount of heat. They also offer a Fried Chicken & Waffles dish, which is served with sweet potato fries and honey butter.The Crack Shack
The Crack Shack is another location in Orange County that is known for their fried chicken. Their menu features a variety of chicken sandwiches, but the one that stands out is the Señor Croque, which is made with crispy fried chicken, bacon, a fried egg, cheddar cheese, and miso-maple butter. It's a decadent and delicious sandwich that is sure to satisfy any craving.The Kroft
The Kroft in Anaheim is a gastropub that serves up some seriously good comfort food. Their fried chicken sandwich is a standout item, made with crispy fried chicken, pickles, slaw, and spicy mayo on a brioche bun. It's simple yet incredibly satisfying.Honeybird
Honeybird in Irvine is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in Southern-style fried chicken. Their chicken is brined for 24 hours and then fried to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. Their Fried Chicken Sandwich is a must-try, made with crispy chicken, slaw, pickles, and comeback sauce.Jollibee
Jollibee may be a fast food chain, but their fried chicken is worth mentioning. Their Chickenjoy is a Filipino-style fried chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It's served with a side of gravy, which takes it to the next level.Conclusion
Whether you're in the mood for classic Southern-style fried chicken or something with a bit of a twist, Orange County has some of the best fried chicken spots around. From spicy chicken sandwiches to brined and juicy pieces of chicken, there is something for everyone. So, the next time you're in the area, be sure to check out some of these amazing restaurants.The Perfect Crunch: Top Fried Chicken Joints in Orange County
When it comes to comfort food, fried chicken is definitely on top of the list. There's just something about that crispy coating and juicy meat that hits all the right spots. And if you're in Orange County, you're in luck because there are plenty of places that serve finger-lickin' good fried chicken. From classic to creative, here are some of OC's most beloved fried chicken restaurants.Southern-Style Comfort: OC’s Best Fried Chicken Spots
If you're craving for some Southern-style comfort food, look no further than Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles. This legendary restaurant has been serving up its famous combination of fried chicken and waffles since 1975. The chicken is perfectly fried to a golden brown and seasoned with a secret blend of spices. Pair it with their fluffy waffles and you've got a match made in heaven.Another spot for some down-home cooking is Crack Shack. This casual eatery offers a variety of chicken dishes, but their fried chicken sandwich is a must-try. The chicken is brined in buttermilk and fried to a crisp before being sandwiched between a brioche bun with pickles, lettuce, and a spicy sauce. It's messy, it's delicious, and it's guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.Crispy, Juicy, Delicious: Where to Find the Best Fried Chicken in Orange County
For some of the juiciest fried chicken you'll ever taste, head over to Honeybee's Chicken in Fountain Valley. Their chicken is marinated overnight in a special blend of herbs and spices before being fried to crispy perfection. The result is a tender and flavorful chicken that will have you coming back for more.Meanwhile, at The Attic in Long Beach, you'll find a unique take on fried chicken. Their signature dish is the Attic Fried Chicken and Stuffed French Toast, which features a boneless chicken breast stuffed with bacon and cheddar cheese, coated in cornflakes and fried until golden brown. It's then served on top of a cinnamon roll French toast with maple syrup and whipped cream. It may sound over-the-top, but trust us, it's worth the indulgence.From Classic to Creative: OC’s Most Beloved Fried Chicken Restaurants
If you're looking for classic fried chicken with a twist, try out The Crack Shack's Firebird sandwich. This spicy creation features a fried chicken breast topped with spicy pickles, crispy onions, and a spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling. For something a little more traditional, their fried chicken plate comes with two pieces of chicken, fries, and their signature biscuits.Meanwhile, at Memphis Soul Cafe & Bar in Costa Mesa, you'll find some of the best Southern-style fried chicken in Orange County. Their chicken is marinated in buttermilk and seasoned with a special blend of spices before being fried to perfection. Pair it with some collard greens and mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort food meal.Heat Up Your Taste Buds: Orange County’s Must-Try Fried Chicken Places
For those who can handle the heat, Howlin' Ray's in Los Angeles is worth the drive. This Nashville-style hot chicken joint has gained a cult following for its fiery chicken, which comes in six levels of spiciness, from Country to Howlin'. The chicken is brined in hot sauce before being coated in a spicy breading and fried to a crisp. Be prepared to wait in line, but trust us, it's worth it.Closer to home, you can get your spice fix at Wingman Kitchen in Costa Mesa. Their Korean-style fried chicken is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that will make your taste buds dance. They also offer a variety of dipping sauces, from garlic soy to honey mustard, to customize your flavor experience.Fried to Perfection: The Best Spots for Craving-Worthy Chicken in OC
If you're looking for some seriously good fried chicken, look no further than The Ranch in Anaheim. This upscale steakhouse may not seem like the place to go for fried chicken, but trust us, their Southern Fried Chicken is out of this world. The chicken is brined in buttermilk and seasoned with a special blend of spices before being fried to crispy perfection. It's served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans for the ultimate comfort food meal.Another spot for some top-notch fried chicken is Wingnuts in Costa Mesa. Their chicken is brined in a blend of herbs and spices before being coated in a crunchy batter and fried to golden brown. The result is a juicy and flavorful chicken that will have you coming back for more.Hot and Fresh: OC’s Best Fried Chicken for Your Next Craving
For some of the freshest fried chicken in town, head over to The Crack Shack's Newport Beach location. Their chicken is made-to-order and always served hot and fresh. Try out their mini-biscuits with honey butter or their deviled eggs as a delicious side dish.Meanwhile, at The Cut in Irvine, you'll find some seriously good Korean-style fried chicken. The chicken is double-fried for extra crispiness and then coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. Pair it with some kimchi fried rice or their mac and cheese and you've got yourself a feast.The Ultimate Fried Chicken Game: Uncovering Orange County’s Top Spots
If you're up for a challenge, try out Wingman's World Famous Wing Challenge. You'll have to eat 10 of their hottest wings in five minutes or less to win a t-shirt and your photo on their wall of fame. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're up for it, it's definitely worth a try.Meanwhile, at Georgia's Restaurant in Anaheim, you'll find some of the best Southern-style fried chicken around. Their chicken is brined in buttermilk and seasoned with a special blend of spices before being fried to crispy perfection. Pair it with some collard greens and cornbread for the ultimate soul food experience.Finger Food Paradise: Savor the Best Fried Chicken in Orange County
Last but not least, if you're in the mood for some finger-lickin' good chicken, head over to Wingstop. This chain restaurant may not be unique to Orange County, but their wings are definitely worth a mention. With flavors ranging from classic buffalo to lemon pepper to garlic parmesan, there's something for everyone. Plus, their fries and sides are the perfect complement to their crispy wings.In conclusion, Orange County has no shortage of amazing fried chicken spots. Whether you're in the mood for classic Southern-style comfort food or something more creative and spicy, there's a restaurant out there that will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, heat up your taste buds and indulge in some of the best fried chicken in town.The Best Fried Chicken in Orange County: A Point of View
Introduction
As a food enthusiast, I have tried many different types of fried chicken all over Orange County. In my opinion, the best fried chicken in Orange County is found at a small restaurant called Crack Shack. However, every restaurant has its pros and cons.The Pros and Cons of the Best Fried Chicken Spots in Orange County
Crack Shack
Pros:
- Uses high-quality, free-range chicken
- Offers a variety of sauces to accompany the chicken
- Unique menu items like chicken oysters and chicken sausage
Cons:
- Can be on the pricier side compared to other fried chicken spots
- Limited seating options
- Can have long wait times during peak hours
- Offers a unique twist on traditional fried chicken by wrapping it in a flaky pie crust
- Uses locally sourced ingredients
- Offers a variety of dipping sauces
- Can be greasy
- Only offers one type of fried chicken
- Smaller portion sizes compared to other fried chicken spots
- Offers a variety of side dishes to accompany the chicken
- Uses organic, hormone-free chicken
- Offers gluten-free and vegan options
- Chicken can be dry
- Can be on the pricier side compared to other fried chicken spots
- Limited seating options
- Crave Restaurant & Cafe
- Honeybird Southern Fried Chicken
- Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles
- The Crack Shack
- Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- Corn on the cob
- Macaroni and cheese
- Biscuits or rolls
- Collard greens or coleslaw
Pie-Not
Pros:
Cons:
Honeybird
Pros:
Cons:
Table Comparison of Best Fried Chicken Spots in Orange County
| Restaurant | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Crack Shack | Uses high-quality, free-range chicken Offers a variety of sauces to accompany the chicken Unique menu items like chicken oysters and chicken sausage | Can be on the pricier side compared to other fried chicken spots Limited seating options Can have long wait times during peak hours |
| Pie-Not | Offers a unique twist on traditional fried chicken by wrapping it in a flaky pie crust Uses locally sourced ingredients Offers a variety of dipping sauces | Can be greasy Only offers one type of fried chicken Smaller portion sizes compared to other fried chicken spots |
| Honeybird | Offers a variety of side dishes to accompany the chicken Uses organic, hormone-free chicken Offers gluten-free and vegan options | Chicken can be dry Can be on the pricier side compared to other fried chicken spots Limited seating options |
Conclusion
While each restaurant has its pros and cons, Crack Shack stands out as the best fried chicken spot in Orange County due to their use of high-quality, free-range chicken and variety of sauces and menu items. However, each individual's taste preferences may differ, and it is important to try each spot for oneself to determine which is the best.The Best Fried Chicken in Orange County: A Finger-Licking Good Guide
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on the best fried chicken in Orange County. We hope that our recommendations have given you some inspiration for your next meal out or takeaway order. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, you'll be pleased to know that Orange County has plenty of options when it comes to deliciously crispy and juicy fried chicken.
If you're looking for classic Southern-style fried chicken, then you can't go wrong with Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles. This iconic restaurant has been serving up its signature dish since 1975 and has become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking comfort food at its finest. With locations in Anaheim and Long Beach, you won't have to travel far to get your fix.
For those who prefer a more modern take on fried chicken, we highly recommend checking out The Crack Shack. This trendy eatery is known for its creative twists on classic dishes, and their fried chicken sandwiches are no exception. Try the Firebird sandwich, which features spicy fried chicken, cool ranch dressing, and crispy onions, for a flavor explosion in every bite.
If you're after something a little more upscale, then head to Adya in Irvine. This Indian-inspired restaurant serves up some of the most unique and flavorful fried chicken we've ever tasted. Their Tandoori Fried Chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, giving it a tangy and aromatic flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Of course, no guide to the best fried chicken in Orange County would be complete without mentioning Wingman Kitchen. This popular food truck has gained a cult following for its mouthwatering wings, which come in a variety of flavors and heat levels. Be sure to try the Garlic Parmesan wings or the Honey Sriracha wings for a taste sensation that will have you licking your fingers clean.
For those who prefer their fried chicken boneless, we recommend heading to Rooster Republic in Costa Mesa. This casual eatery specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken tenders, which are coated in a spicy breading and served with creamy ranch sauce. It's the perfect option for those who want all the flavor of fried chicken without the hassle of bones.
If you're in the mood for Korean-style fried chicken, then look no further than BBQ Chicken. This chain has locations throughout Orange County and is known for its crispy and flavorful chicken that is double-fried for extra crunchiness. Try the Soy Garlic flavor for a sweet and savory taste that is sure to satisfy.
For a taste of the South in Orange County, head to Memphis Soul Cafe & Bar in Costa Mesa. This cozy restaurant serves up classic Southern comfort food, including some of the best fried chicken in the area. Their chicken is seasoned with a special blend of spices and cooked to crispy perfection. Be sure to pair it with some mac and cheese and collard greens for the ultimate soul food experience.
Another great option for Southern-style fried chicken is Crackin' Kitchen in Anaheim. This Hawaiian-inspired restaurant serves up some seriously tasty chicken that is brined overnight and then fried to order. The result is juicy and flavorful chicken that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.
Finally, if you're looking for a healthier take on fried chicken, then head to The Kroft in Tustin. This gastropub serves up baked chicken tenders that are coated in a crispy panko breading and served with a variety of dipping sauces. It's the perfect option for those who want all the flavor of fried chicken without the guilt.
In conclusion, Orange County has no shortage of delicious fried chicken options. Whether you prefer classic Southern-style chicken or something a little more innovative, there is something for everyone in this foodie paradise. We hope that our guide has given you some inspiration for your next meal out and that you'll be able to try some of these finger-licking good options soon. Happy eating!
People Also Ask About Best Fried Chicken in Orange County
What are the best places to get fried chicken in Orange County?
Orange County is home to some of the best fried chicken restaurants. Here are the top recommendations:
What makes the best fried chicken?
The best fried chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned perfectly. The chicken should be marinated before frying to enhance its flavor. The breading should be light, crispy and not too thick. Some people also prefer a spicy seasoning on their fried chicken.
Is fried chicken healthy?
Fried chicken is not considered a healthy food as it is high in calories, fat, and sodium. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. To make it healthier, choose chicken breast instead of dark meat, remove the skin, and use healthier cooking methods like baking or grilling instead of frying.
Can I order fried chicken for delivery?
Yes, most of the fried chicken restaurants in Orange County offer delivery services. You can order online or through third-party delivery apps like DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats.
What are the popular sides to order with fried chicken?
Fried chicken is usually served with a variety of sides that complement the dish. Here are some popular sides to order with fried chicken: