Hello, Fried Chicken Lovers!
Five years ago, we released our first “Best Fried Chicken” article, and I’ve been eager to create a new list of top fried chicken spots for over four years. But like fried chicken itself, you just can’t rush perfection. We’ve been sampling fried chicken all over the USA, but this article focuses specifically on my home area of North Texas. From casual dining to fast-casual and even fast-food joints, I’m excited to finally reveal what I consider to be the best fried chicken in North Texas for 2025.
Let me ask you a question: Have you ever enjoyed smoked fried chicken that’s hand-prepared, fried, and then smoked on a real smoker? Or have you tasted Southern fried chicken with a skin so crispy it’s OSA—Oh-So-Addictive? How about Mexican-inspired fried chicken prepared with fifteen different fresh spices that are so flavorful they’ll blow your mind? If those don’t sound appealing, what about red chili fried chicken that’s so delicious it makes your taste buds dance? And there’s more! Think of Grandma’s fried chicken, sweet and spicy fried chicken, or even honey-dusted fried chicken. So sit back and buckle up because I’ve got all this and more!
I want to clarify that this isn’t about hot chicken or chicken tenders—that’s a different story. With so many places offering various types of chicken nowadays, it’s important to specify what I mean by fried chicken. I’m referring to fresh, bone-in chicken that’s fried to **GBD**—Golden Brown and Delicious every time. According to Wikipedia, “Southern fried chicken,” commonly known as fried chicken, consists of pieces of chicken coated with seasoned flour or batter, which are then pan-fried, deep-fried, pressure-fried, or air-fried. The breading forms a crisp coating on the chicken while keeping the meat juicy.
I wrote about this in my last fried chicken article and I’m going to emphasize it again because I feel it’s important.
Growing up, we served fried chicken at some of our Chapman family restaurants, and it was quite good. Under our restaurant umbrella, we also owned a Church’s Fried Chicken franchise, where I truly learned the preparation techniques and the time it takes to cook and deliver fresh fried chicken. There are no shortcuts in this process—if you try to skip a step, you’re asking for subpar chicken. While preparing fried chicken isn’t overly technical, I genuinely believe that simple cooking processes can sometimes be the hardest to execute. The simpler the dish, the fewer opportunities there are to hide flaws in the preparation.
If you’ve been following me, you know how I feel: “nothing goes better with a delicious meal than family, good friends, and a great story.” That being said, let’s talk fried chicken!
When I was a young boy, there was a lady cook named Mercedes who catered for people around Fort Worth. She cooked many dishes, but two of them stood out to me. You can probably guess one was southern fried chicken. It was true skillet-fried chicken made in a cast iron skillet—the kind where every bite is succulent, flavorful, and the juices run down your chin, getting all over your grubby little fingers. I can promise you, the term “finger-licking good” came from dedicated, hard-working southern ladies like Mercedes who never cut corners. Simply put, it was her way or no way in the kitchen!
I will never forget the time I was outside beneath some big trees and smelled the chicken cooking. I rushed inside and told her I was hungry—probably more like ten or twenty times, like a parrot on a sugar high when it came to food. Even as a child, I had little patience, and when it came to Mercedes’ fried chicken, I had even less. I kept pestering her until she finally had enough. She turned and kicked me out of the house, locking the front door, saying, “I’ll open it as soon as I’m finished cooking my chicken, young man!” I was so intent on eating that chicken, worried someone else might get it before me. I climbed onto the windowsill and started tapping on the kitchen window frame and glass. Let’s just say she wasn’t too pleased, but I finally got to eat that incredible chicken.
I sat down at the table, and she served me two breasts and a leg, along with a generous helping of her homemade mashed potatoes made from fresh potatoes, butter, and smothered in white cream gravy. The steam was rising from the potatoes, and the fried chicken aroma was unforgettable. Every single bite of that chicken was savory, flavorful, and succulent perfection. It was always like that when she prepared it! The flavor and deliciousness never varied, which is why I’ve never forgotten how incredible her fried chicken dinners were.
Fried chicken must be prepared fresh, hand-dipped, and coated with a consistent and delicious signature batter. Mercedes used a real cast iron skillet and only cooked three pieces of chicken at a time. She made her own batter and hand-dipped each piece of fresh chicken individually. She never rushed, never changed her process. Her patience and passion for cooking showed that there are no shortcuts to achieving the deliciousness everyone loved. I truly miss that woman and her chicken; she meant a lot to me, and I always respected her and her culinary skills. I can still smell that meal now, and it makes my mouth water.
The purpose of this story is to share my love for fried chicken and how my passion for this Southern dish began in my childhood. As we traveled around enjoying fried chicken, I always thought of Mercedes. I hope you enjoy this journey as much as I have enjoyed my search for the BEST fried chicken in North Texas.
My current list includes some returning favorites as well as new discoveries I made while indulging in and researching the deliciousness of fried chicken. It’s time to rain down the flavor buckle up!
Mike’s Chicken two locations:
“Southern Fried Crispy Skin Chicken”
4234 Maple Ave #2403, Dallas, TX 75219
7752 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230.
I had a friend in Dallas who recommended Mike’s Chicken to me for over a year before I finally tried it, and I regret not acting on his advice sooner. I receive suggestions and recommendations daily—about 3 to 4 on average—but this one was definitely worth it. Mike’s is located in a laundromat building on Maple Ave. in Dallas. Yes, you read that right—it’s inside a laundromat!
Mike’s serves what I consider to be the BEST fried chicken in North Texas. Every aspect of their chicken is perfect and consistently so. The preparation, cooking, and presentation are everything I look for in fried chicken: savory, crispy, and succulent, with just the right hint of salt and a load of deliciousness. Simply put, they should rename Mike’s Chicken to “MORE” because you’ll want more with each juicy bite. It’s R.I.D.I.C.U.L.O.U.S. — ridiculously delicious, that is! And don’t forget to try Mike’s buttery house biscuits; they are among the best you’ll ever taste.
Slow Bone Texas Barbeque
“Smoked Fried Chicken”
2234 Irving Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
This place is a house built on deliciousness. Every single culinary delight that comes out of the Slow Bone kitchen is simply magical. I know this because I’ve tried Jeffrey’s creations. Every bite you take will be unforgettable, and that’s what Jeffrey Hobbs believes. He is passionate about feeding your heart, mind, body, and soul. He wants you to enjoy every bite, and believe me, you will.
Let’s talk about his smoked fried chicken, which is pure perfection. It has the perfect texture and flavor, and each bite is juicy with a hint of smoke from the Slow Bone smokers. I swear it’s so delicious that you’re going to have indulgent dreams about it after your first bite. I’m telling you right now: RUN, don’t WALK, to Slow Bone and try his chicken. You’re going to be a customer for life! Throw that door open and let them know Ol’ Trey sent you to CHOW DOWN!
Roots Southern Table
“Duck Fat-Fried Chicken”
Address: Bee St Suit 160, Farmers Branch, TX
If you’ve never been to Roots Southern Table, I want to share a bit about it. Chef Tiffany is passionate about cooking and pays homage to the way she grew up eating in the South. Her grandmother always welcomed guests with food, and for Southern families, that food was what held them together. Back then, it was true farm-to-table eating. Chef Tiffany took her childhood memories from the South, added her own spin from what she learned living there, and created Roots Southern Table. I’ve enjoyed Chef Tiffany’s cuisine for years, and I love it.
If you appreciate fresh and delicious Southern dishes with a twist, I have something special for you. The twist is a fat that makes everything better: DUCK FAT. Yes, you heard me correctly. The hand-prepared fried chicken is fried not in old, greasy oil but in premium duck fat, which elevates it to another level. Each bite of Chef Tiffany’s chicken is slightly crispy, succulent, and bursting with flavor beyond words. It’s lip-smacking, knee-tapping, foot-stomping deliciousness. If you’ve never tried it, it’s a must, especially if you’re a fried chicken lover. Before you head over to Roots, make sure to have a reservation!
Drew’s Place Soul Food
“Southern Soul Searching Fried Chicken”
5701 Curzon Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Located in Fort Worth on the west side off Curzon Street, Drew’s Place has a fantastic old-school atmosphere. I had to include their fried chicken because it’s some of the BEST anywhere. It is simple, perfect and delicious every time! They use fresh chicken and a house-made batter to fry their chicken, achieving that Golden Brown and Delicious (GBD) quality every single time. The chicken is savory, loaded with great flavors, slightly crispy, and has a unique flavor profile that really shouts “Drew’s.” You’ll be tempted to lick your fingers to savor every last drop of that flavor-packed chicken juice. Don’t forget to order some of their house-prepared sides like greens; everything from Drew’s Place is a trip to Deliciousville! Plus, the people there are some of the BEST you will ever meet! DO NOT forget your sweets!
Little Red Wasp Kitchen + Bar
“Grandma’s Fried Chicken”
808 Main Street, Fort Worth, Texas
If you’re looking for a destination where everything on the menu is prepared fresh from scratch and brimming with unforgettable culinary delights, then The Wasp is the place to be. I’ve been telling everyone for years that the menu at The Wasp is the barometer of deliciousness. Chef Blaine and Adam have created a restaurant with a laid-back vibe, a colorful and inviting atmosphere, and a menu that offers something for everyone. When I say that Chef Blaine is the master of deliciousness, I’m serious. I’ve featured many of his culinary creations on TV news segments and in “Best Of” lists—so many that I’ve lost count. Anything you try will be a flavor explosion in your mouth. That’s why it’s no surprise that his “Grandma’s Fried Chicken” is on this list.
Grandma’s Fried Chicken is prepared fresh by hand, and the process doesn’t begin until you place your order. It’s served HF&D: Hot, Fresh, and Delicious every single time. The skin has the perfect sheen, and each bite is slightly crispy, flavor-packed, and so delicious that it should be illegal in all 50 states. I’m serious—it’s that good! If you don’t believe me, go try it for yourself. It’s served with a side of whipped potatoes, garlic hot honey, and fried rosemary. Don’t blame me when you find it so delicious that you become addicted and keep returning to The Wasp for more. That’s what will happen, I promise. So throw that door open and tell them Trey sent you for some life-changing fried chicken!
Brick & Bones
“Mexican Inspired Fried Chicken”
2713 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75226
I love this chicken so much that I featured it on my “Best Chicken Dishes” special on ABC Channel 8 a few years ago. Brick & Bones is located in Deep Ellum, right in the heart of the arts district. I find the name catchy! Classified as Mexican Fried Chicken, it’s a flavor experience you’ve probably never tasted before. They describe themselves as a throwback bar in Deep Ellum focused on craft Mexican fried chicken, great cocktails, and curated spirits.
They started in the kitchen and built a menu centered around Mexican-inspired fried chicken, which is their specialty! Prepared with fresh chicken and over 15 different fresh Mexican spices, it’s incredibly delicious. The first time I tasted this chicken, I was blown away by the flavor! I immediately ordered a second helping because one just wasn’t enough. If you love lip-smacking savory chicken—some of the BEST in North Texas—then head over to Brick & Bones. Tell them Big Trey sent you! And don’t forget to order the Mac-N-Cheese with your fried chicken.
Brick & Bones Backyard
“Mexican Inspired Fried Chicken”
3410 Main St, Rowlett, TX 75088
This is their new location in a historic old house in Rowlett, Texas. They are bringing their signature flavors to the heart of Rowlett, TX, in the historic Oliver House, fondly known as the “blue house” by locals. There, you’ll find the same beloved Mexican-inspired fried chicken, curated spirits, and seasonal cocktails that put them on the map. They have elevated their offerings with rotisserie chicken, which is brined for 48 hours and cooked to perfection for 1 hour and 20 minutes—because they believe in doing things right. For special occasions, the second floor features the Oliver Room, a private dining space surrounded by windows, perfect for private parties and gatherings. Basically, come for the mouth-watering chicken, and stay for the welcoming ambiance and expanded menu. We loved the new location and the upgraded menu!
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
“Honey Dusted Fried Chicken”
“Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken”
The Star, Frisco, Texas
Some of my greatest culinary discoveries happen by accident, especially when I’m not even looking for them. Tupelo Honey is a prime example of this. During my stay at the Omni Frisco Hotel, I came across their menu and decided to pop in for a meal. That decision turned out to be life-changing after my first bite.
It’s rare for me to find two standout dishes from the same restaurant, but after twenty-five years of writing about unique and delicious foods, I can confidently say that Chef Eric and his culinary team at Tupelo Honey have created two of the best fried chicken dishes, not just in North Texas, but in the entire United States. I’ve tried fried chicken from LA to Miami, and Tupelo Honey’s bone-in fried chicken is simply dripping with deliciousness!
No matter which fried chicken you choose—“Honey Dusted Fried Chicken” or “Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken”—you will be in for a treat. Both dishes are prepared fresh, slightly crispy, and served with a side of Southern-O-Liciousness. One is sweet, while the other is sweet and spicy. Each bite will leave you wanting more. In fact, I think these dishes should be renamed to “MORE” because that’s all you’ll want—more!
If you love fried chicken, Tupelo Honey is a must-try. Just walk in and order “MORE” because you’ll definitely want it!
Midland Hotel Chop House and 1896 Saloon
“Fresh Red Chile Fried Chicken”
103 N Pecan St, Hico, TX 76457
The Midland Hotel has roots dating back to 1891. Located in Hico, Texas, it has a rich history that began as Joel Fisher’s Hotel. It was later renamed by Mrs. Lula Stovall and became a brick landmark in the small town. The hotel served as a hub for travelers and community events, even accommodating boarders who later became part of the Stovall family in the 1900s. Known for its unique architectural style, it played a significant role in the town’s early development. Although the hotel has faced challenges, including a fire and periods of vacancy, it has been restored to its original “Turn of the Century” glory and is now even better, featuring an unforgettable chophouse and saloon.
Oh dear, thank you to the fried chicken gods! We cannot express enough gratitude to Chef Eric for his inspiration in creating the Red Chile Fried Chicken. This dish is pure perfection—the texture, crunch, and flavor profile are not only unique but also incredibly delicious. Every bite makes your taste buds dance and brings joy to your mouth. This is some of the most flavorful fried chicken you will ever experience. I absolutely love this chicken; it’s worth a trip from anywhere to enjoy. It’s served with braised collard greens, whipped potatoes, house-cured bacon country gravy, and a side of unforgettable flavors.
Fixe Southern House
“Southern Fried Chicken”
Fort Worth and Austin, Texas
It all began in Austin for Fixe Southern House, slinging fresh, prepared Southern deliciousness. They expanded to Fort Worth, and the rest is history. They’ve been offering magical culinary delights ever since. Chef James is known for his creative take on Southern dishes, putting his unique spin on them to make everything FIXE DELICIOUS!
Fixe is recognized for its modern approach to classic Southern comfort food, particularly its unbelievable biscuits, which are cooked to order every single time. These biscuits are simply some of the best I’ve ever enjoyed, anywhere. But I want to focus on their mouth-watering, legendary fried chicken that will smack you in the face with it’s unbelievably deliciousness.
The magic starts when you place your order. They prepare the chicken fresh, and it arrives at your table GBD—Golden, Brown, and Delicious. After you take that first bite, you’re transported to that legendary spot I like to call “Fixe Southern House Deliciousness.” This feeling will continue until your dish is gone. If you’re like me, the flavors of the fried chicken are so savory and vibrant that I sometimes don’t even breathe between bites. Yes, it’s that delicious! When I say it will smack you in the face—that’s exactly what it does. Smack, crack, and Ka-POW its way into your heart forever. If you haven’t tried FIXE yet, you need to do so quickly. And don’t forget the fresh, warm, unforgettable biscuits!
Chef James has a new concept in Austin called Hissy Fit that you absolutely need to check out. It’s in my TOP TEN new places to try in Austin. Chef James has done it again with Hissy Fit—it’s a must-visit!
Gus’s Fried Chicken
“Hot and Spicy Fried Chicken”
1067 W Magnolia Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
I know this is considered Nashville Hot Chicken, but I don’t care because it’s downright delicious. Gus claims it’s the best fried chicken on the planet, but you won’t understand what he means until you try a piece or two for yourself! I’m telling you: this spicy, crispy fried chicken will give you chicken dreams while you sleep. I have those same dreams, which is why I always head to Gus’s in Fort Worth. The chicken is savory, light, crispy, and has just the right amount of heat that you will fall in love with. The legend goes that someone once asked Gus Vanderbilt for his fried chicken recipe, and he simply replied, “I ain’t telling.” They marinate the chicken overnight, add a little of this and a dash of that, and then toss it in the fryer. By the time you get the finished product, it’s fresh, hot, a little spicy, and has a deliciously crunchy skin. I can’t ever stop eating it. All I know is Ol’ Gus knows what he’s doing. I’m sure he’ll never share his legendary chicken recipe. Fortunately, you can eat as much as you can buy. Be sure to take a bib, some wipes, and get some chicken to go while you’re at it! It’s a trip straight to Chicken Deliciousville.
Michael’s Cuisine Restaurant & Bar
“Michael’s Secret Fried Chicken”
3413 W 7th St, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Located on Upper West 7th in Fort Worth, Chef M.T. is one of the original celebrity chefs in the DFW area. He’s been creating delicious dishes in Texas for decades, always using farm-fresh products to create bold flavors that everyone loves. His restaurant has a cozy, classy, and friendly atmosphere. His creative secret recipe for fried chicken is no exception; it’s loaded with savory, crispy goodness. It’s hard to put the chicken down until it’s all gone. It’s always served HF&D—Hot, Fresh, and Delicious! If you haven’t visited Chef M.T. on Upper West 7th Street, you need to make that trip. Tell them Trey sent you and that you want some of that HF&D Fried Chicken. You can also get curbside or to-go if you prefer. Just get yourself some!
Streets Fine Chicken Restaurants
“Southern Fried Chicken” and “Chicken Fried Bacon”
3857 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75219
5211 Forest Ln #108, Dallas, TX 75244
I discovered Streets Fine Chicken by chance one Sunday while brunching in Dallas. The restaurant’s story began decades ago with Gene Street, and the Street family continues to share their delicious, secret family recipes to this day. Alongside their brined and fried chicken, they offer a variety of sides, starters, and craft cocktails, all served in a stylish atmosphere.
Their chef-driven, classic southern chicken is hand-prepared with care, and each piece is fried to perfection. Every bite delivers unforgettable flavors. If you haven’t tried Streets Fine Chicken yet, you need to visit and indulge. And don’t miss out on the Chicken Fried Bacon! Yes, you read that right—CHICKEN FRIED BACON.
Now, let’s talk about that CRAZY-BACON RIDICULOUSNESS! The Chicken Fried Bacon is simply bacon perfection. It’s the ideal combination of soft, savory bacon covered in a delicious Streets batter, resulting in a golden brown, mouthwatering treat. This dish is truly unforgettable because it’s pure BACON RIDICULOUSNESS!
Jesus Family Restaurant
“Southern Fried Chicken”
810 S Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Located on far south Main Street, this restaurant has been a staple for over 50 years, inspired by Jesus’s dream of serving fresh Mexican food, BBQ, and delicious meals for hungry people in Cowtown. Although Jesus has passed on, his family continues to run the restaurant in the same spirit, upholding his values. They offer a wide variety of freshly prepared dishes, including house-fried pies on special occasions. The portions are always generous and fairly priced, catering to those with hearty appetites.
I love the fresh, house-prepared fried chicken. It has the perfect texture and color. With a slight crunch in every bite, it’s so succulent that you’ll want to have a napkin handy before enjoying your first bite. As soon as you take that first bite, the flavor will overwhelm your taste buds and have them dancing with delight. It’s simply flavor packing and never lacking. Be prepared to wait because they prepare it fresh to order.
Lisa’s Fried Chicken & Seafood
“Southern Fried Chicken”
Fort Worth Proper, 18 Locations
I’ve been craving Lisa’s chicken for over a decade, and I’m not shy about it! While they are known for simple southern fried chicken, remember that simple dishes are often the hardest to perfect. Lisa’s does it right! They use fresh chicken, hand-batter it with Lisa’s special house batter, and fry it to perfection. I have constant cravings for Lisa’s, and now I can order it straight to my house. It’s always savory, slightly crispy, and packed with deliciousness. And why not? It’s hand-prepared with love in the kitchen, and everyone follows that recipe for success. If you haven’t checked out Lisa’s, you should try them and grab some fried catfish too. You’ll thank me later, I promise!
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House
“OMG Southern Fried Chicken” Family Style
10 North Texas Locations
Let me make this easy for you: Babe’s is a family dining experience like no other in the fried chicken world. They offer a cozy atmosphere with fantastic service and delicious southern fried chicken, along with unlimited family-style sides. Babe’s prides itself on being a place where people truly feel at home. It’s a casual setting where you can be comfortable in your blue jeans or cutoffs, and where your neighbors serve you and your whole family.
That pretty much sums up Babe’s, but I must add that they serve some of the BEST fried chicken in Texas. Everything is prepared fresh, hand-dipped, and infused with Babe’s passion for savory, crispy deliciousness! If you’ve never been to a Babe’s, it’s time to head over and indulge. Just a warning: you might leave in a wheelbarrow because you won’t be able to stop eating all that savory fried goodness! Tell them Trey sent you!
Williams Fried Chicken
“Southern Fried Chicken” Williams Way
Multiple Locations Across North Texas
In 1987, Mr. Williams opened his first fried chicken restaurant in Dallas. Since then, the chain has expanded to multiple locations across the area. I began enjoying Williams Fried Chicken back in the late ’80s and have been a fan ever since. Starting with only fresh chicken, they have remained true to their roots by using the Williams family secret recipe to create savory, freshly fried chicken. The quality is always consistent, and it carries that unmistakable stamp of authentic Southern fried chicken deliciousness! If you love genuine Southern fried chicken, you must treat yourself to some Williams!
I highly recommend embarking on a fried chicken adventure to try all of these winners. Make sure to visit each location, as they all offer unique flavors and experiences. Don’t forget to tag me in your photos @TreysChowDown
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– Trey “Chow Down” Chapman, Fried Chicken Professor, Travel and Food Lover.
 
