6 Pennsylvania Chicken Chains That Locals Say Are Worth Every Bite
Pennsylvania might be famous for cheesesteaks and pretzels, but locals know our chicken game is strong too. As someone who’s lived in the Keystone State my whole life, I’ve logged miles and meals, sampling crispy, saucy, spice-dusted bird from Pittsburgh to Philly.
These six Pennsylvania-born chicken chains have earned loyal followings with regional flavors, family-friendly vibes, and a commitment to quality that keeps us lining up again.
From charcoal-kissed thighs to crunchy tenders, scratch-made sides, and tangy house sauces, they deliver comfort without cutting corners. Consider this your local’s guide to cluck-worthy spots truly worth a detour—and a second napkin.
1. Quaker Steak & Lube: Where Wings Take Flight
I still remember my first visit to the original Quaker Steak in Sharon—walking into that converted gas station not knowing my taste buds were about to be forever changed! Founded in 1974, this Pennsylvania treasure started as a cook-your-own-steak joint before discovering their true calling: mind-blowing chicken wings.
Their signature sauces range from the mild ‘Louisiana Lickers’ to the infamous ‘Atomic’ that’ll have you signing a waiver before diving in. The automotive-themed decor featuring vintage cars and motorcycles hanging from the ceiling creates an atmosphere unlike any other chicken spot.
Fun fact: Their ‘Triple Atomic’ sauce once held the Guinness World Record for hottest sauce!
2. Chick’nCone: Reinventing Chicken and Waffles
Whoever said you can’t improve on chicken and waffles clearly never visited Chick’nCone! Born in the Lehigh Valley, this quirky concept grabbed my attention at a local food festival where the line stretched longer than my patience—but wow, was it worth the wait.
Hand-breaded chicken chunks tossed in your choice of sauce (Cinna-Maple is my personal weakness) and stuffed into a fresh-made waffle cone create the perfect portable meal. No more struggling with knife and fork while trying to get that perfect bite of chicken and waffle together.
The genius lies in its simplicity—solving a common food problem while creating something even more delicious in the process.
3. Federal Donuts & Chicken: Sweet Meets Savory
“You’re getting donuts AND fried chicken?” my friend asked on our first Federal Donuts visit. Little did she know that’s literally their business model! This Philly-born chain has mastered the art of seemingly unrelated food pairings.
The chicken comes either “naked” with dry seasonings or “fancy” with glazes that would make any donut jealous. My go-to order? The honey ginger chicken paired with a strawberry lavender donut for dessert.
What started as a tiny storefront in 2011 has exploded into a Philadelphia institution. Chef Michael Solomonov’s creation proves that sometimes the most unexpected food combinations create the most unforgettable meals.
4. Lovebird: Farm-Fresh Meets Fast Casual
“Sorry, we’re out of chicken today,” said no one at Lovebird ever. My first Lovebird sandwich nearly brought tears to my eyes—not from spice, but from the sheer joy of tasting chicken that actually tasted like, well, chicken!
This rapidly expanding chain prioritizes organic, antibiotic-free birds from Pennsylvania farms. Their signature sandwich comes on a potato roll with house-made ranch and pickles that perfectly complement the crunchy, never-greasy coating.
The minimalist, bright interiors reflect their clean-eating philosophy. While slightly pricier than some competitors, locals happily pay for quality that respects both the chickens and the customers who eat them.
5. Boston Market: Pennsylvania’s Adopted Rotisserie King
The aroma of rotisserie chicken wafting from Boston Market’s doors has been my dinner salvation more times than I care to admit! Though not Pennsylvania-born, this chain now calls our state home with headquarters in Newtown Township.
Unlike its fried counterparts, Boston Market’s slow-roasted approach creates juicy chicken that pulls apart with minimal effort. Their signature sides—especially those cornbread muffins that somehow manage to be both savory and sweet—complete the comfort food experience.
My grandmother’s secret holiday hack? Serving Boston Market chicken on her own china plates when cooking became too much. Twenty years later, it’s still our family’s knowing wink to each other across the Thanksgiving table.
6. Hoss’s Steak & Sea House: The Chicken Underdog
“Trust me, skip the steak and order the chicken,” my uncle whispered during my first visit to Hoss’s. Despite the name highlighting beef and seafood, locals know Hoss’s chicken offerings deserve their own spotlight!
Founded in Altoona in 1983, this family-friendly chain offers a chicken menu that ranges from simple grilled breasts to their legendary smothered chicken topped with mushrooms, onions, and melted cheese. The complimentary salad bar with freshly baked bread makes the deal even sweeter.
Hoss’s thrives in smaller Pennsylvania communities where chain restaurants are limited. Their commitment to consistent quality and generous portions has created fierce loyalty among rural Pennsylvanians for nearly four decades.