Southern Chefs Reveal Their Top Picks for Fast-Food Fried Chicken—Discover Their Favorites!

Chefs have their favorite fast-food spots, and Southern chefs especially love fried chicken. After a long day, there’s nothing better than sinking your teeth into crispy, juicy chicken.

I chatted with two Southern chefs, Arnold Myint and Nick Wallace, who shared their go-to places for fried chicken. Their insights might surprise you!

Popeyes

Nick Wallace can’t resist Popeyes, especially after a busy day. “I usually grab a four-piece: breast, wing, leg, and thigh,” he says.

But he doesn’t stop there. Nick likes to spice things up at home. “I always have pickled jalapeños and bacon or onion jam. I top the chicken and enjoy it at my kitchen counter.” It turns out, a little creativity can elevate takeout!

One time, Nick served a chicken leg sprinkled with dukkah, a flavorful Middle Eastern blend. “That’s the best meal after a long work day,” he insists.

Publix

Arnold Myint has a different go-to. When not whipping up his own Thai-style fried chicken in Nashville, he relies on Publix. “I get it almost every week,” he shares.

What makes Publix fried chicken special? According to Arnold, it’s all about the technique.

• Perfect Cooking: The chicken is consistently cooked right through.
• Flavorful Brine: They use celery salt, delivering rich, mouthwatering flavor.
• Crunch Factor: The crust stays crunchy, whether it’s hot or cold. Arnold doesn’t mind eating it straight from the fridge. “When fried chicken tastes good cold, you know it’s high-quality,” he says.

A Taste of Nostalgia: Jollibee

Arnold also loves Jollibee, the Filipino chain famous for its fried chicken and spaghetti combo. “It brings back memories,” he smiles. While Jollibee has most locations in California, the unique mix of flavors feels right at home.

What the Data Says

Recent surveys indicate that fried chicken is among America’s favorite comfort foods. According to a 2022 report from the National Chicken Council, the average American eats about 93 pounds of chicken each year. Fried chicken remains a top pick for many families.

Social Media Buzz

On platforms like Instagram, foodies share their fried chicken experiences daily. Hashtags like #FriedChickenLove and #ChickenGoals have millions of posts, highlighting the dish’s popularity. Many users show off their unique takes, from spicy twists to fusion varieties.

In the end, whether it’s from Popeyes, Publix, or Jollibee, fried chicken brings comfort and joy to many. Southern chefs remind us that sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones, enjoyed at home.

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