11 Illinois Fried Chicken Spots Worth The Drive In 2026
Illinois knows fried chicken like few places do, and 2026 promises to be a standout year for its fried chicken scene. As someone who loves a great meal, I can tell you there’s something special about how this state elevates poultry to an art form.
From fiery Nashville-style heat that keeps you coming back for more to the comforting, classic fried chicken that takes you straight to Sunday dinners, Illinois has perfected the craft.
This list of eleven restaurants showcases the very best, where recipes passed down through generations meet fresh ideas and techniques that push the boundaries of flavor and texture.
Each spot offers a unique take on fried chicken, from secret spice blends to cooking methods that deliver that satisfying crunch we all crave. So, get ready to dig in and experience firsthand why Illinois has earned its place in the fried chicken hall of fame.
1. Honey Butter Fried Chicken – Chicago
Honey Butter Fried Chicken at 3361 N Elston Ave transforms ordinary fried chicken into something extraordinary with their signature sweet and savory combination.
The restaurant’s namesake topping creates magic when warm honey butter cascades over perfectly fried chicken, creating a flavor explosion that keeps Chicagoans coming back week after week.
Each piece emerges from the fryer with a golden-brown crust that shatters at first bite, revealing tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth.
The casual atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re stopping by solo for a quick bite or bringing the whole crew for a feast.
Their menu goes beyond just chicken, offering creative sides that complement the main attraction beautifully. The cornbread muffins deserve their own fan club, and the mac and cheese reaches comfort food nirvana.
What sets this place apart is their commitment to quality ingredients and cooking techniques that honor Southern traditions while adding their own Chicago twist. The staff genuinely cares about your experience, making recommendations and ensuring every order leaves the kitchen at peak perfection.
Lines can get long during peak hours, but the wait becomes part of the experience as anticipation builds. This Avondale neighborhood gem proves that sometimes the best things in life really do come covered in honey butter.
2. Red Light Chicken – Chicago
Red Light Chicken at 2147 N Sheffield Ave brings serious heat and serious flavor to Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.
This spot doesn’t mess around when it comes to spice levels, offering options that range from pleasantly warm to “why did I do this to myself” hot. The chicken arrives at your table with a gorgeous reddish hue that hints at the flavor adventure ahead, and the aroma alone will make your mouth water.
Their Korean-inspired approach to fried chicken creates a unique experience that stands out in Chicago’s competitive food scene.
The double-frying technique ensures maximum crispiness, while the sauce application happens at just the right moment to maintain that crunch. Each bite delivers layers of flavor, from sweet to spicy to umami, creating a complex taste profile that keeps your palate engaged.
The restaurant’s vibe matches the food perfectly, with a cool, laid-back atmosphere that makes it ideal for casual dates or hanging with friends. Their beer selection pairs wonderfully with the spicy chicken, offering refreshing relief between bites.
The portions are generous enough to share, though you might not want to once you start eating. Service is attentive without being overbearing, and the staff knows their menu inside and out.
Red Light Chicken proves that Chicago can hang with the best when it comes to Asian-fusion fried chicken excellence.
3. Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket – Willowbrook
Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket at 645 Joliet Rd in Willowbrook has been serving up fried chicken perfection since 1946, making it a true Illinois institution.
This Route 66 landmark represents everything wonderful about classic American comfort food, where recipes remain unchanged because perfection doesn’t need updating.
Walking through the doors feels like stepping back in time, when diners were gathering places and fried chicken was an art form passed down through generations.
The chicken here follows old-school preparation methods that modern fast-food chains have long forgotten. Each piece gets hand-breaded with a secret blend of seasonings before taking a dip in the fryer, emerging with that beautiful golden color that signals deliciousness.
The meat stays incredibly moist while the coating provides satisfying crunch that makes every bite memorable.
Their famous chicken basket presentation adds nostalgic charm to the experience, arriving at your table looking like something from a Norman Rockwell painting. The sides maintain the same high standards, from creamy coleslaw to fluffy biscuits that practically beg for butter.
Families have been making pilgrimages here for generations, creating traditions around Sunday dinners and special celebrations. The building itself tells stories through vintage photographs and memorabilia that decorate the walls.
Dell Rhea’s proves that sometimes the old ways really are the best ways.
4. Dave’s Hot Chicken – Springfield
Dave’s Hot Chicken at 2401 A Wabash Ave brings Nashville heat to Illinois’ capital city with their signature slider-style chicken that packs serious punch.
Springfield residents no longer need to travel south for authentic hot chicken, as Dave’s delivers the real deal with spice levels that challenge even the bravest eaters. The “Reaper” level requires signing a waiver, which should tell you everything you need about their commitment to heat.
What started as a parking lot pop-up in California has grown into a phenomenon, and the Springfield location maintains the same quality that built the brand.
Their chicken tenders arrive juicy and tender, coated in a spice blend that builds gradually, allowing you to appreciate the flavors before the heat takes over. The slider format makes it easy to try different spice levels, though most people find their comfort zone and stick with it.
The kale slaw provides cooling contrast, while their cheese sauce offers creamy relief when things get too intense. The fries come seasoned just right, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
The restaurant’s modern, minimalist design keeps the focus where it belongs on the food.
Quick service means you’re never waiting long, even during lunch rushes when downtown workers flood in. Dave’s Hot Chicken proves that Springfield’s food scene can compete with any major city when it comes to trendy, quality fast-casual concepts.
5. Dave’s Hot Chicken – Champaign
Dave’s Hot Chicken at 2009 S Neil St serves Champaign’s college crowd and locals alike with their addictive Nashville-style chicken. The University of Illinois student population has embraced this spot wholeheartedly, making it a regular stop for those seeking bold flavors and satisfying portions.
Late-night cravings get properly addressed here, as Dave’s understands that sometimes you need serious spice after a long study session.
The Champaign location mirrors the quality found at every Dave’s, with tender chicken that’s been perfected down to a science. Their spice progression starts at “No Spice” for the timid and climbs to levels that make grown adults cry happy tears.
The beauty lies in how the heat enhances rather than masks the chicken’s natural flavors, allowing you to taste the quality even through the fire.
Their sauce selection adds another dimension, with ranch and cheese sauce providing cooling options when you’ve bitten off more than you can chew.
The Mac and Cheese side dish reaches comfort food heaven, creamy and rich with just the right amount of cheese pull. The location’s proximity to campus makes it convenient for students, while the quality attracts townies who appreciate good chicken.
The staff keeps things moving efficiently even during game day rushes. Dave’s Hot Chicken Champaign location proves that college towns can support serious food destinations when the product delivers consistent excellence.
6. Mother Cluckers Chicken – Gurnee
Mother Cluckers Chicken at 36725 US-41 Ste B in Gurnee brings family-friendly fried chicken excellence to the northern suburbs. This local favorite has built a loyal following by focusing on what matters most: quality chicken cooked with care and served with genuine hospitality.
The name alone brings a smile, showing that the owners don’t take themselves too seriously while taking their food very seriously indeed.
Their chicken preparation follows time-tested methods that prioritize flavor and texture above trendy gimmicks. Each piece gets attention to detail, from the initial seasoning through the final moments in the fryer.
The result is chicken that satisfies on every level, with crispy skin giving way to meat that’s cooked perfectly throughout. No dry spots, no greasy coating, just honest-to-goodness good eating.
The menu offers variety beyond standard fried chicken, including tenders for the kids and sandwiches for those wanting a handheld option. Their sides showcase the same commitment to quality, made fresh daily rather than reheated from frozen.
The coleslaw has just the right tang, and the mashed potatoes taste like someone’s grandmother made them. The casual atmosphere welcomes families, making it a great spot for weeknight dinners when nobody feels like cooking.
Prices remain reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes that ensure nobody leaves hungry. Mother Cluckers proves that suburban strip mall locations can house culinary gems worth seeking out.
7. Pop-Up Chicken Shop – Bloomington
Pop-Up Chicken Shop at 409 N Hershey Rd brings Korean fried chicken innovation to Bloomington with their distinctive double-frying technique. The name might suggest temporary status, but this permanent fixture has become essential to Bloomington’s dining landscape.
Their approach combines Korean cooking methods with American portion sizes, creating the best of both worlds for chicken enthusiasts.
The double-frying process sets Pop-Up apart from traditional American fried chicken joints, creating an incredibly light and crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after sitting for a bit. This technique requires more time but delivers results that justify the wait.
The chicken emerges from its second trip to the fryer with a delicate, almost lacy coating that shatters satisfyingly with each bite.
Their sauce selection ranges from sweet and sticky to spicy and bold, with each option adding its own personality to the chicken. The soy garlic version hits that perfect sweet-savory balance, while the spicy option brings legitimate heat without overwhelming the palate.
The wings are particularly popular, sized generously and cooked until the meat practically falls off the bone. Their sides include kimchi coleslaw that adds a tangy, fermented kick to the meal.
The modern, clean interior makes it comfortable for dining in, though takeout remains popular for those wanting to enjoy at home.
Pop-Up Chicken Shop shows Bloomington that fried chicken innovation doesn’t stop at the Nashville hot trend.
8. Pop-Up Chicken Shop – Peoria
Pop-Up Chicken Shop at 800 SW Adams St suite 106 brings the same Korean fried chicken excellence to Peoria that Bloomington residents already enjoy.
Peoria’s food scene has evolved significantly in recent years, and Pop-Up represents the kind of quality concept that elevates an entire city’s dining reputation. Their downtown location makes it convenient for lunch crowds and evening diners exploring the area.
The Peoria location maintains the high standards that define the Pop-Up brand, with chicken that’s double-fried to achieve that signature light, crispy texture. Each order gets prepared fresh, ensuring that every customer experiences the chicken at peak deliciousness.
The cooking process might take a few extra minutes compared to fast food, but the difference in quality makes it worthwhile every single time.
Their menu offers flexibility, allowing you to mix and match sauces or go naked if you want to appreciate the pure fried chicken experience. The honey butter sauce provides a milder option that lets the chicken’s natural flavors shine through the subtle sweetness.
The spicy versions bring heat that builds gradually rather than hitting you all at once. The fries come seasoned with a proprietary blend that makes them nearly as addictive as the chicken itself.
The restaurant’s modern aesthetic appeals to younger diners while remaining accessible to all ages.
Pop-Up Chicken Shop proves that Peoria can support innovative dining concepts when they deliver consistent quality and exciting flavors.
9. Lothson’s Karry Out – DeKalb
Lothson’s Karry Out at 644 E Lincoln Hwy in DeKalb has been a college town staple for decades, feeding Northern Illinois University students and locals with reliable fried chicken goodness.
This unassuming spot might not look fancy from the outside, but the chicken inside has earned legendary status among those who know. Sometimes the best food comes from places that focus on cooking rather than decorating.
Their fried chicken follows classic preparation methods that haven’t changed much over the years, because when something works this well, you don’t fix it. The breading has just enough seasoning to enhance without overpowering, allowing the chicken’s natural flavor to come through clearly.
Each piece gets fried to order, ensuring freshness and that ideal internal temperature that keeps the meat juicy.
The portions are generous, designed to satisfy hungry college students but appreciated by everyone who walks through the door. Their chicken dinner comes with sides that complement rather than compete, including coleslaw that’s refreshingly simple and rolls that arrive warm and buttery.
The prices remain remarkably affordable, making it accessible for students on tight budgets. The carry-out format means you can grab your food and go, though some people eat in their cars because the aroma makes waiting impossible.
The staff treats regulars like family, remembering orders and asking about classes or work. Lothson’s Karry Out represents the kind of local treasure that defines a community’s character.
10. Johnnie Mae’s Soul Food – Highwood
Johnnie Mae’s Soul Food at 114 Washington Ave in Highwood serves authentic Southern cooking that transports diners straight to the heart of soul food country.
This small restaurant packs enormous flavor into every dish, with fried chicken that honors generations of African American culinary tradition. The recipes come from family history, passed down and perfected over time until they reached their current state of deliciousness.
The chicken here tastes like Sunday dinner at your grandmother’s house, assuming your grandmother was an incredible cook who knew her way around a cast-iron skillet. The seasoning penetrates deep into the meat, flavoring every bite rather than just coating the surface.
The frying technique creates a crust that’s substantial enough to provide texture but not so thick that it dominates the experience.
Their sides deserve equal billing with the chicken, featuring classics like collard greens, mac and cheese, and candied yams that each deserve their own standing ovation. The cornbread comes out moist and slightly sweet, perfect for soaking up any remaining flavors on your plate.
The portions are substantial, with plates piled high in the Southern tradition of generous hospitality. The intimate dining room feels like eating in someone’s home, with decorations that celebrate African American culture and history.
Service is warm and welcoming, making first-timers feel like regulars.
Johnnie Mae’s Soul Food proves that Highwood’s diverse culinary scene includes authentic soul food that rivals anything you’d find down South.
11. Chick Fry – Plano
Chick Fry at 133 E South St in Plano represents small-town Illinois dining at its finest, where everybody knows everybody and the chicken is always fresh.
This tiny community northwest of Chicago might not be on most people’s radar, but locals and those willing to make the drive know that Chick Fry serves some of the state’s best fried chicken. The restaurant embodies that classic American small-town charm where quality matters more than trends.
Their approach to fried chicken stays true to Midwestern values: honest ingredients, proper technique, and portions that ensure nobody leaves hungry.
The chicken gets hand-breaded throughout the day, maintaining freshness from lunch through dinner service. The coating achieves that ideal balance between crispy and tender, with enough seasoning to be interesting but not so much that it overwhelms.
The menu keeps things straightforward, focusing on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than offering endless mediocre options. Their chicken dinners come with classic sides that taste homemade because they are, prepared fresh daily in the restaurant’s kitchen.
The gravy is rich and flavorful, the coleslaw has that perfect creamy-tangy balance, and the biscuits arrive warm enough to melt butter on contact. The dining room feels comfortable and unpretentious, with locals stopping by for their regular orders and travelers discovering a hidden gem.
Chick Fry proves that you don’t need to be in a big city to find outstanding fried chicken worth writing home about.