6 Chefs Reveal Their Top Pick for Fast Food Fried Chicken—You Won't Believe Which Classic Took the Crown!

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Fast food may seem abundant and cheap, but chefs have strong opinions on what makes the best fried chicken. With their expertise, we’ve created a guide to fried chicken that’s worth every penny.

Expert Opinions on Fried Chicken

We tapped into the knowledge of several culinary experts to find out what makes fast food fried chicken truly stand out. Here’s what they had to say:

Meghan Splawn, a food writer, believes there’s a noticeable difference in quality between fried chicken and chicken sandwiches. "Some chains do one or two things well, but no one excels at everything," she says.
Dina Deleasa Gonsar emphasizes that well-made fried chicken should never be too greasy. "If it’s dripping with oil, I’m not interested," she insists.
Chef Jing Gao adds, "The chicken needs to be juicy and well-seasoned. A good brine or marinade is essential for flavor and moisture."

What Makes Great Fried Chicken?

So, what attributes set apart the best fast food fried chicken? Here are key features that our experts agree on:

Crispiness: The coating should be crispy, not soggy. It should adhere to the chicken, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Juiciness: The inside must be moist. Quality chicken tends to be brined or marinated to maintain its juiciness.
Flavor: The seasoning is crucial. A perfectly seasoned crust adds a burst of flavor to each piece.
Consistency: The frying oil should be fresh and replaced regularly to avoid a bitter taste. If the oil is too old, it makes the chicken greasy.
Focus on Chicken: Restaurants that specialize in fried chicken typically provide better quality. Ideally, chicken should dominate their menu.

The Top Picks for Fast Food Fried Chicken

After consulting our panel, the clear winner for fast food fried chicken is Popeyes. Their chicken is celebrated for its crispy, flavorful coating and juicy meat. Splawn states, "Popeyes nails the salty and peppery crust, which is a real treat."

Other notable mentions include:

KFC: Known for its blend of 11 herbs and spices, KFC offers flavorful and juicy chicken thanks to its unique cooking process. Learn more here.
bb.q Chicken: This Korean chain has gained popularity for its double-fried chicken, ensuring extra crunch. Each piece is finished with flavorful sauces that enhance the experience without making the chicken soggy.
BonChon: Another fantastic Korean option, BonChon is praised for its evenly coated, well-seasoned chicken. Its variety of sauces adds excitement to every order.

Eating Fried Chicken Right

When it comes to sides, experts suggest keeping it simple yet flavorful. Family packs from these chains paired with homemade salads can create a delightful meal. A fresh salad can brighten up the fried chicken experience.

In summary, the art of fried chicken isn’t just about convenience. It’s about quality, flavor, and the joy it brings to the table. So, the next time you’re craving fried chicken, consider these insights for a tasty experience!

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