7 Worst-Rated Chicken Chains Still Operating In California And Why Diners Aren’t Impressed
California’s fast food scene is packed with chicken joints promising finger-lickin’ goodness, but not all deliver on that promise. From soggy breading to questionable service, these chains have earned some serious side-eye from Golden State diners. I’ve eaten at them all so you don’t have to – here’s why these seven chicken spots consistently leave Californians feeling fowl.
1. KFC
Colonel Sanders would weep at what’s become of his legacy. Once the gold standard for fried chicken, KFC now serves up greasy, often dried-out pieces that barely resemble the crispy delight of yesteryear.
Most locations suffer from inconsistent quality and dining areas that haven’t seen a proper cleaning since the 90s.
2. Buffalo Wild Wings
Wings shouldn’t cost a small fortune while tasting like they came from the frozen section. Buffalo Wild Wings charges premium prices for mediocre chicken that’s often overcooked and drowning in sauce to mask its flaws.
The deafening sports bar atmosphere can’t distract from the consistently disappointing food quality.
3. Church’s Texas Chicken
Bland is the kindest word for Church’s offerings. Their chicken consistently lacks seasoning beyond a hint of salt, leaving customers wondering if flavor is considered an optional extra.
Last time I visited, the chicken was so oily it left a puddle on my tray. Their biscuits remain the sole saving grace.
4. Raising Cane’s
One-trick ponies rarely excel, and Raising Cane’s proves this rule. Their limited menu might suggest mastery, but their chicken fingers are forgettably average—neither crispy nor juicy enough to justify the cult following.
The famous Cane’s sauce does heavy lifting for otherwise unremarkable food.
5. Dave’s Hot Chicken
Instagram-worthy but palate-unworthy describes Dave’s perfectly. Their neon-colored spice dusting creates eye-catching content but delivers an artificial flavor profile that tastes more like chemicals than actual heat.
The chicken itself is often dry beneath its vibrant coating, leaving you reaching for water for all the wrong reasons.
6. Angry Chickz
Angry is how you’ll feel after spending good money here. This Nashville-style hot chicken chain sacrifices quality for heat, resulting in chicken that’s either scorchingly inedible or disappointingly mild with no middle ground.
The inconsistency between locations makes every visit a gamble you’ll likely lose.
7. Vons Chicken
Korean fried chicken should be a transcendent experience of crackling skin and juicy meat. Vons Chicken somehow manages to miss both marks, serving up chicken that’s simultaneously soggy and dry.
Their ambitious flavor options can’t compensate for fundamental execution problems that leave you longing for authentic Korean fried chicken.