Nashville, Tennessee is known for its lively music scene and delicious Southern cuisine. One staple of Southern-style cooking that Nashville does exceptionally well is fried chicken.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, there are plenty of places in Nashville to indulge in this crispy, juicy dish.
But with so many options, where do you start? That's where this guide comes in.
We've scoured the city to bring you the best places for fried chicken in Nashville. From classic Southern-style chicken to spicy hot chicken, we've got you covered.
But first, what makes Nashville fried chicken so special? It's all about the seasoning and the cooking method. Traditional Southern-style fried chicken is often coated in a mixture of flour and spices before being deep-fried to crispy perfection.
Nashville's take on fried chicken takes it up a notch with the addition of a spicy seasoning blend that packs a punch. Hot chicken is a Nashville specialty that has gained popularity in recent years, and it's not for the faint of heart. Doused in a fiery hot sauce, hot chicken is a must-try for those who love a little heat with their meal.
Now that we've got your mouth watering, let's dive into the best places for fried chicken in Nashville.
Whether you're in the mood for classic Southern-style chicken or want to try something with a little more kick, Nashville has a fried chicken joint for you. So grab a napkin and get ready to indulge in some of the best fried chicken you'll ever taste.
1. Monell's
Monell's offers a unique communal dining experience where guests can enjoy delicious Southern-style fried chicken served family-style.
The historic surroundings add to the charm of the restaurant.
The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that guests are well-fed and satisfied.
The all-you-can-eat option is a great value for the price, making Monell's a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Southern cuisine.
2. Hattie B's Hot Chicken – Nashville – Midtown
Hattie B's Hot Chicken is a must-visit for fried chicken lovers.
With five spice levels to choose from and delicious sides, there's something for everyone.
The atmosphere is casual and the staff are friendly.
Although there may be a wait, it's worth it for the piping hot, perfectly seasoned chicken. Don't miss out on this Nashville staple.
3. Red's 615 Kitchen
Red's 615 Kitchen is a must-visit place for fried chicken lovers. The juicy chicken is cooked to perfection and comes with delicious sides and crinkle cut fries.
The coleslaw is light and refreshing, making for a perfect contrast to the hot chicken. The service is efficient and consistent, and the wait time is minimal.
The medium hot chicken has a slightly sweet flavor and is not as hot as it looks. The Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese is a must-try and is incredibly tasty.
The owner is friendly and welcoming, making the dining experience even better. If you're looking for the best hot chicken in town, look no further than Red's 615 Kitchen.
4. Coneheads
Coneheads is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique fried chicken experience.
Their customizable cones and baskets allow for endless flavor combinations, and their sauces are a standout feature.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the food is served quickly.
The atmosphere is casual and unassuming, with a patio for outdoor seating. Don't miss out on this gem of a chicken shack.
5. Helen's Hot Chicken
Helen's Hot Chicken is the go-to place for anyone craving delicious fried chicken in Nashville. The chicken is made fresh to order and is seasoned to perfection.
The "hot" flavor is just right, with the chili oil adding a nice kick. The serving size is great, and the prices are very reasonable.
The ambience of the restaurant is quaint and cool. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great customer service experience.
Helen's Hot Chicken is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Nashville hot chicken.
6. Waldo's Chicken & Beer
Waldo's Chicken & Beer is a must-visit spot for fried chicken lovers. The food is affordable and delicious, with a wide variety of sauces and condiments to choose from.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, making for a great dining experience.
Don't miss out on the crispy onion rings and the large size fruit tea. Plus, there's a great happy hour deal with 2-for-1 draft beer.
This is a family-friendly place with a fun atmosphere and great beer selection.
7. The Mockingbird
The Mockingbird is a chic diner that puts a global spin on classic American comfort food. Their fried chicken is a must-try, with the chef's creative twist turning it into a gourmet meal.
The restaurant also offers a range of delicious drinks, including some impressive virgin cocktails.
The service is attentive and friendly, and the decor is modern and stylish.
With options for gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free diets, The Mockingbird is a great choice for groups with different dietary requirements.
8. Nashville City Kitchen
Nashville City Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious fried chicken. The menu offers a variety of tasty options, including catfish and pork chops, all seasoned to perfection.
The friendly staff provides excellent customer service, making diners feel like family.
The atmosphere is relaxed and enjoyable, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner.
Don't forget to try the appetizers, especially the mac and gouda cheese bites. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a wholesome dining experience.
9. Big Shakes Nashville Hot Chicken
Looking for some delicious fried chicken that's hot and juicy in every bite, then Big Shakes Nashville Hot Chicken is the place to go.
With a wide range of spice levels to choose from, their chicken is always well seasoned and flavorful. The sides are equally delicious, especially the well-seasoned fries and the fried pies.
Although the menu is not very diverse, the chicken and catfish platters are a must-try for any foodie.
The portions are big, and the staff is friendly, making it a great spot for a quick meal or a casual dine-in experience. If you're a fan of Nashville hot chicken, then Big Shakes is a must-visit.
10. 400 Degrees
400 Degrees is a must-visit for anyone looking for top-notch hot chicken. The breading is crispy, the chicken is juicy, and the heat level is just right.
The portions are large, the prices are great, and the owner makes everyone feel like a regular. The customer service is superb, and the food is fresh, clean, and delicious.
If you're in a hurry, this may not be the best option, but it's worth the wait. Don't miss out on the fruit tea, which is heavenly. This food truck is casual and comfortable, making it a great spot for comfort food and hot chicken plates.
The menu also includes hot shrimp, pork chops, and catfish, making it a versatile option for anyone craving some Nashville-style hot chicken.
11. BJ Hot Chicken
BJ Hot Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves fried chicken.
The chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, with just the right amount of spice. The sides are also delicious, especially the mac and cheese.
The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for a quick meal. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
If you're in the mood for some great fried chicken, definitely give BJ Hot Chicken a try.
12. Biscuit Love
Biscuit Love is a Southern restaurant that serves up delicious fried chicken.
The chicken is crispy and juicy, with just the right amount of seasoning. The biscuits are also a standout, fluffy and buttery.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for a possible wait.
However, the friendly staff and mouth-watering food make it worth it. If you're in the area, be sure to give Biscuit Love a try!
