Fried chicken is a classic comfort food that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds around the globe. It is particularly popular in the southern United States, where it is often served as a main dish at family gatherings and celebrations. However, it is also enjoyed in many other parts of the world, and New York fried chicken is some of the world’s best.
The Big Apple is home to some of the finest fried chicken joints in the entire country, offering a wide range of options for anyone who loves this delicious dish. Whether you are a native New Yorker or just visiting the city for a short time, you are sure to find a fried chicken restaurant that suits your taste and budget.
From classic southern-style fried chicken to more experimental and innovative variations, the options are endless in New York City.
Bonchon New York, Koreatown
If you’re a fan of crispy, juicy fried chicken, don’t miss Bonchon New York. This popular Korean chain has become a fan favourite for its delicious wings and drumsticks, coated in a secret recipe of spices and double-fried to perfection. Bonchon also offers a variety of other Korean-inspired dishes, including bibimbap, bulgogi, and spicy stir-fries.
Don’t forget to try their savoury Korean fried chicken sandwiches, piled high with pickled vegetables and spicy mayo. With multiple locations throughout the city, it’s easy to satisfy your craving for Bonchon’s delicious fried chicken and Korean-inspired dishes.
Paula’s Soul Food Cafe, The Bronx
For some of the best soul food in the Bronx, check out Paula’s Soul Food Cafe. This hidden gem, located in a residential neighbourhood, serves up delicious fried chicken, collard greens, and other southern classics. The cafe itself is small and cozy, with just a handful of tables and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
But it’s the food that really sets Paula’s apart – everything is made from scratch, including the fluffy biscuits and rich, lip-smacking sauces. The fried chicken is some of the best you’ll ever taste – crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Pecking House, Queens
For some seriously delicious fried chicken, check out Pecking House in Queens. This unassuming spot may not look like much from the outside, but inside you’ll find some of the best fried chicken in the city. Pecking House’s secret recipe for their juicy, crispy fried chicken has won over fans from all over the borough. The sides are just as delicious – try the creamy mac and cheese, savoury collard greens, and fluffy biscuits for a true southern feast.
Jacob’s Pickles, Upper West Side
If you’re in the mood for some seriously delicious comfort food, check out Jacob’s Pickles on the Upper West Side. This popular spot is known for their mouth-watering fried chicken, served with a variety of tangy pickles and sides.
Jacob’s Pickles also offers a variety of other southern-inspired dishes, including shrimp and grits, catfish po’ boys, and smoked ribs. There’s a wide selection of pickles to choose from, ranging from classic dill to spicy jalapeño. With a cozy, rustic atmosphere and friendly service, Jacob’s Pickles is the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends.
Rowdy Rooster, East Village
For some seriously delicious fried chicken in New York City, check out Rowdy Rooster. This trendy spot, located in the heart of the city, serves up some of the juiciest, most flavoursome fried chicken you’ll ever taste.
Rowdy Rooster also offers a variety of other southern-inspired dishes, including crispy fried okra, tangy coleslaw, and creamy mac and cheese. There’s a selection of delicious sauces to choose from, ranging from classic hot sauce to spicy habanero. With a lively atmosphere and friendly service, Rowdy Rooster is the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends.
Pies ’n’ Thighs, Williamsburg
Are you ready to sink your teeth into some of the juiciest, most flavourful fried chicken in New York City? Look no further than Pies ‘n’ Thighs, a southern-style diner located in Williamsburg. This hidden gem is known for their mouth-watering fried chicken, served with a variety of delicious sides and sauces that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
But Pies ‘n’ Thighs isn’t just about the fried chicken – they also offer a variety of other southern-inspired dishes that’ll satisfy your comfort food cravings. From creamy mac and cheese to savoury collard greens, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget about dessert – choose from a selection of pies ranging from classic apple to rich chocolate pecan.
Saigon Social, Lower East Side
This trendy spot, located in the heart of the city, serves up some of the most flavourful and aromatic dishes you’ll ever taste.
One of the must-try dishes at Saigon Social is their fried chicken. Coated in a secret blend of spices and herbs, and served with a side of sticky rice and tangy dipping sauce, it’s a true taste of Vietnam. But Saigon Social isn’t just about the fried chicken – they also offer a variety of other dishes, including spicy lemongrass beef, creamy coconut curry, and refreshing summer rolls.
The Commodore, Williamsburg
The Commodore is a popular restaurant located in the trendy neighbourhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious Southern-inspired cuisine, it has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
The menu at The Commodore features a variety of dishes including sandwiches, burgers, and entrees like fried chicken and shrimp and grits. The restaurant also has a full bar offering craft beers, cocktails, and other spirits.
In addition to its tasty food and drinks, The Commodore is also a great spot for live music. The restaurant hosts regular performances by local artists, adding to its lively and fun atmosphere.
The Dutch, Soho
Located in the heart of Soho, The Dutch is a trendy restaurant known for its elevated American cuisine and stylish atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the restaurant’s chic design, featuring exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and an open kitchen. The lively bar area is the perfect spot to grab a drink before sitting down to enjoy a delicious meal.
But it’s not just the atmosphere that sets The Dutch apart – the food is truly top-notch. The menu features a range of dishes that showcase the best of American cuisine, including seafood, steaks, and burgers. The restaurant also has a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is fresh and flavoursome.
In addition to its lunch and dinner offerings, The Dutch also has a popular weekend brunch menu featuring classic dishes like eggs Benedict and avocado toast.
Turntable Chicken, Brooklyn
Turntable Chicken is a one-of-a-kind restaurant located in the heart of Brooklyn. As the name suggests, this funky spot is all about combining two of life’s great pleasures – music and fried chicken.
The menu at Turntable Chicken features a variety of tasty fried chicken dishes, including sandwiches, tenders, and whole birds. Each dish is cooked to perfection, with a crispy and unctuous crust that will have you coming back for more. In addition to the fried chicken, the restaurant also serves up a selection of sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.
But the real standout at Turntable Chicken is the music. The restaurant has a vinyl record store onsite, and diners can browse through the collection while enjoying their meal. The music selection spans a wide range of genres, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
If you’re a fan of fried chicken and music, Turntable Chicken is the perfect spot for you. Be sure to check out their website for more information on the menu and current music offerings.
Root and Bone, East Village
The menu at Root and Bone features a variety of classic Southern dishes, including fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and BBQ ribs. Each dish is made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection, resulting in some of the best comfort food you’ll ever taste.
But Root and Bone isn’t just about the food – the atmosphere is just as fun and welcoming. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with warm lighting and friendly staff. It’s the perfect spot to gather with friends or enjoy a casual date night.
Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken, East Village
Part of the Bromberg brothers’ empire, Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken is a fast-casual, order-over-the-counter joint that caters to a variety of needs. Whether you’re looking for a late-night snack (it’s open until 2am seven days a week), a single drumstick to satisfy your cravings, or a chance to try something new (like the Beak to Butt, a hodgepodge of fried necks, backs, hearts, and gizzards lathered in hot sauce), Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken has you covered.
In addition to its wide variety of flavour and seasoning options, from classic buttermilk to spicy Korean-style, Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken is also known for its 65-seat space and friendly staff. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with a casual and upbeat vibe, and the staff go above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting New York, make sure to stop by Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed! The juicy and crispy fried chicken is always cooked to perfection, and the sides, like creamy coleslaw and fluffy biscuits, are the perfect accompaniment. Overall, Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves fried chicken.
Peaches HotHouse, Brooklyn
Get ready to heat things up at Peaches HotHouse, the sizzling southern-style restaurant located in the heart of Bed-Stuy Brooklyn. With its fiery flavours and sultry atmosphere, Peaches HotHouse is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date. From its famous fried chicken and spicy wings to its delectable gumbo and jambalaya, Peaches HotHouse serves up a taste of the south that’ll leave you craving more. So grab a cold brew and sink your teeth into some seriously southern comfort at Peaches HotHouse – you won’t be disappointed.
Where Was Fried Chicken Invented?
The exact origins of fried chicken are not known, but it is a dish that has been enjoyed for centuries and is popular around the world. Fried chicken is thought to have been influenced by various dishes from different cultures, including West African, Scottish, and Native American cuisine.
One theory is that fried chicken was brought to the United States by West African slaves, who prepared it using techniques and spices from their native cuisine. The dish then became popular among slave owners and eventually spread throughout the country.
Another theory is that fried chicken was introduced to the United States by Scottish immigrants, who brought their tradition of frying chicken in fat with them. The dish was then further popularised by Kentucky Colonel Harland Sanders, who developed the famous recipe for Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Regardless of its precise origins, fried chicken is now a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world, not least New York.
How Can I Make Fried Chicken at Home?
Here is a simple recipe for making fried chicken at home:
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
4 cups vegetable oil
4 cups buttermilk
4 lbs chicken pieces (such as drumsticks, thighs, breasts)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Dip the chicken pieces into the buttermilk, coating them completely.
3. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep fryer to 350°F.
5. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the exterior is golden brown.
6. Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
7. Serve the fried chicken hot, with your choice of sides.
This recipe makes delicious and crispy fried chicken that is sure to be a hit with the whole family. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to suit your tastes. Enjoy!
