10 Best-Rated Chicken Chains In Pennsylvania (And Why Locals Are Impressed)
The debate over the “best” anything in Pennsylvania is fierce, whether it’s sports teams, Wawa vs. Sheetz, or, perhaps most intensely, where to get your chicken fix.
Forget casual suggestions; we’re talking about the chains that consistently deliver, the ones that have transcended mere fast food to become local legends. Our mission, should we choose to accept it (and trust us, we did), was to meticulously comb through user ratings, online forums, and expert opinions to unveil the definitive list.
We’re not just naming names; we’re diving deep into why these spots have Pennsylvanians clucking with delight. Prepare to have your chicken preferences validated, or perhaps, delightfully challenged. Let the feasting begin!
1. Chick-Fil-A
Pennsylvania residents can’t get enough of Chick-fil-A’s consistently perfect chicken sandwiches. The chain’s signature pressure-cooked chicken breast, hand-breaded and served on a toasted bun with pickles, has created a loyal following across the state.
The waffle fries, another fan favorite, offer the perfect crispy-outside, fluffy-inside texture that complements any meal. Many locals point to the exceptional customer service as a major reason for their loyalty – team members are known for their genuine ‘my pleasure’ responses and attentive care.
During a recent snowstorm, the Allentown location stayed open to feed stranded travelers. Cementing the chain’s reputation for community service that goes beyond good food.
2. Wingstop
Wingstop has captured Pennsylvania hearts with its impressive array of wing flavors. From the mouth-tingling Atomic to the sweet-and-tangy Louisiana Rub, each sauce option provides a unique taste experience that keeps customers experimenting with new combinations.
The made-to-order approach ensures every batch arrives piping hot and freshly prepared. Locals appreciate the consistent quality and generous portion sizes that make Wingstop perfect for game days or family gatherings.
The seasoned fries, dusted with a proprietary spice blend, have become almost as famous as the wings themselves. Pennsylvania wing lovers particularly praise the Garlic Parmesan and Lemon Pepper flavors, which regularly sell out during busy weekend rushes.
3. Boston Market
Boston Market stands out in Pennsylvania as the go-to spot for rotisserie chicken that tastes homemade without the effort. The slow-roasted, never-fried approach appeals to health-conscious diners looking for comfort food without excessive grease.
Their signature sides elevate the experience beyond just chicken – the creamy mac and cheese, sweet corn, and garlic mashed potatoes have their own devoted fans. I remember stopping at the Pittsburgh location after moving apartments, exhausted and hungry.
The quarter chicken meal with two sides felt like the home-cooked dinner I needed but couldn’t make myself. Pennsylvania families appreciate the market’s convenient family meals that feed four to six people, making weeknight dinners stress-free and delicious.
4. Quaker Steak & Lube
Founded in Sharon, PA, Quaker Steak & Lube combines Pennsylvania heritage with outstanding wings. The automotive-themed restaurant features genuine race cars and motorcycles hanging from ceilings, creating an atmosphere that’s as entertaining as the food is delicious.
The wing sauce selection ranges from mild to the challenging Triple Atomic, which requires signing a waiver before ordering. Regular customers develop strong opinions about their favorite sauce, sparking friendly debates among friend groups.
Beyond wings, their chicken sandwiches and tenders maintain the same quality standards. The sports-bar environment makes it a popular gathering spot for watching Steelers and Eagles games.
5. Big Chicken
Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken has quickly become a Pennsylvania favorite since expanding to the state. The menu features oversized sandwiches with playful names like the ‘Shaq Attack’ and ‘Uncle Jerome,’ reflecting O’Neal’s larger-than-life personality.
Locals rave about the crispy chicken that maintains its juiciness, a difficult balance that Big Chicken consistently achieves. The mac and cheese waffle fries represent the kind of creative side dish that separates this chain from standard fast-food offerings.
I tried their MDE (Most Dominant Ever) sandwich during a visit to Philadelphia last summer, and the combination of jalapeño slaw, spicy aioli, and pickle chips created flavor complexity rarely found in chicken chains. The restaurant’s modern, energetic atmosphere appeals to families!
6. Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens brings authentic Southern chicken traditions to Pennsylvania with a focus on hand-breaded tenders that strike the perfect balance between crispy coating and tender meat. The chain’s commitment to freshness is evident in every bite, with chicken that’s never frozen.
Pennsylvania customers particularly appreciate the house-made dipping sauces, with Slim’s Sauce and Cayenne Ranch emerging as local favorites. The jars of banana pudding, served in individual mason jars, provide a sweet ending that completes the Southern comfort food experience.
The restaurant’s warm atmosphere, with its modern farmhouse aesthetic and friendly service, creates a welcoming environment that makes diners feel at home. Many locations feature outdoor seating areas that remain popular even during Pennsylvania’s milder winter days.
7. Popeyes
Popeyes has converted countless Pennsylvania chicken lovers with its distinctive Louisiana-style cooking. The chain’s signature crispy chicken features a spice blend that delivers a subtle heat that builds with each bite rather than overwhelming the palate.
The famous chicken sandwich that caused national shortages when first introduced continues to draw crowds across the state. Locals particularly value the consistency between locations, knowing they’ll get the same delicious experience whether visiting the Erie or Philadelphia restaurants.
The buttery biscuits have developed their own following, with some customers making special trips just for these flaky sides. During a family reunion in Pittsburgh, my cousins insisted on bringing Popeyes’ red beans and rice as their potluck contribution.
8. KFC
KFC maintains its position as Pennsylvania’s nostalgic chicken choice, with many residents having childhood memories centered around the iconic red and white buckets. The Colonel’s secret blend of 11 herbs and spices continues to create a distinctive flavor profile.
Pennsylvania families appreciate the variety of meal options that satisfy different preferences, from Extra Crispy to Original Recipe to grilled alternatives. The sides remain as important as the chicken itself, with the creamy mashed potatoes and gravy consistently ranking as customer favorites.
Many Pennsylvania locations have undergone modern renovations while maintaining the classic menu items that have kept generations coming back. The affordable family buckets make KFC a practical option for feeding large groups without sacrificing flavor.
9. Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s has won over Pennsylvania chicken lovers with a refreshingly simple approach: do one thing and do it perfectly. Their menu focuses almost exclusively on chicken fingers, allowing them to master the art of creating perfectly tender strips with a crunchy, flavorful coating.
The legendary Cane’s Sauce, a tangy, slightly spicy secret recipe, has developed such a following that customers regularly request extra containers. Pennsylvania college students particularly embrace this chain, with lines often stretching out the door at locations near university campuses.
The crinkle-cut fries, buttery Texas toast, and creamy coleslaw complete the limited but perfectly executed menu. When the King of Prussia location opened last year, dedicated fans camped overnight to be among the first customers.
10. Zaxby’s
Zaxby’s relatively recent expansion into Pennsylvania has quickly earned the chain devoted followers. The Zalads (yes, with a Z) offer a healthier option without sacrificing flavor, featuring grilled chicken atop fresh vegetables with house-made dressings.
The Zax Sauce has become particularly popular, with its zesty, creamy profile that enhances both the chain’s wings and fingers. Pennsylvania customers appreciate the restaurant’s willingness to customize orders, allowing for mix-and-match wing flavors and sauce combinations.
I visited the Harrisburg location during their grand opening week and was impressed by how the staff handled the massive crowds while maintaining quality and friendly service. The Kickin’ Chicken sandwich has emerged as a Pennsylvania favorite, offering a spicy alternative that competes with other chains’ similar offerings.