The 10 Best Chicken Chains in the World

Script written by Christopher Lozano

Top 10 Chicken Chains

Few things in life are as universally awesome as a perfectly seasoned piece of poultry. Welcome to WatchMojo and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the top 10 chicken chains.
For this list, we’ll be looking at joints with more than one location that consistently serve up the best-cooked birds in the world. To be clear, we’ll be looking at chains both small and regional as well as major national and international ones and basing our choices how delicious they are and not necessarily on the business’ reputations.

#10: Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles

Some things should never be combined, like oranges and toothpaste, pickles and peanut butter or Star Wars and Star Trek. That being said, sometimes odd pairings do make for magic results - chicken and waffles is just such a combination. Roscoe’s is by no means the only place pairing fried chicken with golden brown waffles, but the iconic Los Angeles-based franchise, founded in 1975, has undoubtedly helped to popularize it. With many locations spread across Southern California, this chain has become something of an institution. Along with their delicious chicken, they also serve a solid classic soul food menu.

#9: Jollibee

If you like chicken and melodramatic stories, Jollibee is the place for you. This Filipino institution is known almost as much for its tear-jerking commercials as it is for its great food. Its menu of yumburgers, spaghetti and of course tasty fried chicken has made it the most popular fast food restaurant in the Philippines, able to compete with even the biggest franchises like McDonald’s. Starting in the late ‘70s, the chain has since expanded to international markets, including the United States. We for one welcome our new chicken-slinging anthropomorphic bee overlords.

#8: Wingstop Inc.

A relative newcomer to the fast food scene, Wingstop was founded in 1994, but you wouldn’t know that by the look of the decor; the franchise has a strong sense of brand identity, employing a 1930s to ‘40s aviation theme. Wingstop makes their reputation on doing a few things very well and providing some great seasoning options. Not only is their original sauce delicious, but their other offerings like Louisiana Rub are a must try as well. With locations all over the world, Wingstop is synonymous for good chicken wings. It’s little surprise then that, by 2002, they had already served over a billion wings.

#7: El Pollo Loco

It may come as a surprise to some people, but fried isn’t always the best way to eat chicken. This is a controversial idea, we know. Literally meaning the crazy chicken, El Pollo Loco is founded on the idea that fresh fire-grilled chicken is a great thing. And after you taste it for yourself, we suspect you’ll have no choice but to agree. Its first restaurant may have been established in Mexico, but it's the whole chickens of the American-based company we’re raving about here. Marinated in a special blend of citrus, herbs, and spices, the resulting flavor is indeed divine. We know that many people are committed to Taco Bell, but if you’re looking for tacos, El Pollo Loco is again a great choice. Their sides, burritos and special items really seal the deal.

#6: Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits

With over 750 locations across the United States, Bojangles is recognized as one of the highest quality chicken chains around. Originally founded in Charlotte, North Carolina, the chain has since expanded to many other states. And while the company has changed hands many times over the years, flavor and service have thankfully remained relatively consistent. Their secret seasoning is delicious and so are their famous sides. Nothing quite says Southern food like a piece of fried chicken and a biscuit, especially when you pair it with Bojangles “Legendary Iced Tea”.

#5: Zaxby’s

Zaxby’s may not be too well known outside of the Southeastern U.S., but within their market, they are prolific, with over 800 locations in 18 states. Their chicken is known for being some of the best in the business. Founded by two childhood friends, Zach McLeroy and Tony Townley, Zaxby’s is committed to making great chicken, and we applaud those efforts. They’re best known for their chicken fingers and wings, but we recommend trying out as much of their menu as you can. Or all of it... just don’t attempt it in one sitting.

#4: Church’s Chicken

There are two things every great restaurant needs. Great food and clever alliteration in their name. Okay, maybe the name isn’t as important, but it helps. Church’s is an old timer in this group, having been around since 1952. But hey, as we all know, grandparents usually make the best fried chicken! Though their menu is simple, Church’s knows not to mess with a winning formula. Along with their specially spiced chicken, they have some great honey-butter biscuits and tender strips. And their spicy chicken has just the right amount of heat to keep you coming back for more.

#3: Kentucky Fried Chicken

If you’ve never heard of KFC, you’ve also probably never heard of fried chicken, or maybe even chicken - period. To any extraterrestrials watching, allow us to fill you in. Kentucky Fried Chicken is the worldwide chain that makes some of the most iconic fried chicken on the planet. Though their secret recipe might not be so secret, it’s still delicious, and we love dipping our potato wedges in their awesome mashed potatoes and gravy. Too much potato, you say? Never! With an assortment of options from value meals to family buckets, there’s really something to satisfy all appetites, without ever compromising on flavor.

#2: Chick-Fil-A

When it comes to chicken sandwiches, Chick-Fil-A doesn’t need fancy dressings and cheeses; they just need their awesomely seasoned chicken and a good bun. A funny ad campaign helps too. Those cows can’t even spell chicken right! In addition to great sandwiches, Chick-Fil-A also makes some of the best chicken strips around. Perhaps one of the best things about them is that they have locations all over the United States. However, while the company may land high on our list for its chicken’s taste, its history of contributing to anti-LGBTQ groups does complicate things.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are some honorable mentions:
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

Bush’s Chicken!

Buffalo Wild Wings

#1: Popeyes

If you want a dish done right, you go to the place of its origin, and in the case of fried chicken, no one does it better than the southern United States. Originally founded in New Orleans, Popeyes has since expanded its goodness to the rest of the United States and some international markets. They make awesome chicken and serve classic sides. Additionally, they have had some unique menu items like beer-can chicken and blackened chicken tenders. Sound delicious? It is! For our money, Popeyes is just about the best chicken chain in the business.