Top 20 chicken tenders in Chicago
In Chicago, chicken tenders are a popular menu item, savored by both locals and tourists. These juicy and crispy strips of chicken are a favorite among children and adults alike, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal. From fast-food chains to high-end restaurants, chicken tenders in Chicago are a must-try for any food lover. Whether you like them plain or with a side of sauce, these tenders will surely delight your taste buds.
- 1. Honey Butter Fried Chicken
- 2. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
- 3. Red Light Chicken
- 4. Parson's Chicken & Fish
- 5. Crisp
- 6. Dave’s Hot Chicken
- 7. Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken
- 8. Lucy's Fried Chicken & Burgers
- 9. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
- 10. Harold's Chicken Shack West Loop
- 11. The Budlong Southern Chicken
- 12. Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
- 13. Fry the Coop (West Town)
- 14. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
- 15. The Art of Chicken
- 16. CityBird Tenders
- 17. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
- 18. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
- 19. Sir Chicken
- 20. CM Korean Fried Chicken of Lincoln Park Chicago 충만 치킨
1. Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Hand-breaded chicken, homemade sauces and honey butter

The chicken tenders, when ordered for delivery, managed to retain their crispy exterior and delightful flavor, making for a highly satisfying meal.
Featuring tender meat and a savory flavor, the chicken tenders were a clear standout. The honey butter sauce served with them added a unique and enjoyable twist to the dish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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2. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Family-owned business since 1953, Secret spice mix

The chicken tenders and breasts served at the restaurant were crispy and juicy, with a spice level that was just right. Both options came with coleslaw, and customers can choose from potato salad, baked beans, or other sides to accompany their meal. The chicken was the star of the plate, but the coleslaw was also a hit, with its fresh and tangy flavor.
In addition to the chicken and sides, the restaurant offers a variety of sweet treats for dessert. One option is the southern pecan pie, which was a popular choice for both the author and their wife. The meal was paired with refreshing drinks, with the wife choosing IBC root beer and the author going for lemonade. Overall, the meal was a satisfying and indulgent experience.
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TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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3. Red Light Chicken
Family-friendly atmosphere with a large variety of menu items

The chicken tenders I recently had were some of the best I've had in a long time. They had a delicious flavor and a satisfying texture that made them stand out. I thoroughly enjoyed the chicken tenders and appreciated their perfect cooking and seasoning.
These chicken tenders excelled in terms of taste and texture, making for a highly enjoyable culinary experience. The cooking and seasoning were both on point, contributing to their overall appeal. This dish certainly exceeded my expectations, offering a wonderful balance of flavor and texture in every bite.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
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4. Parson's Chicken & Fish
Community-focused atmosphere with a spacious patio

Parson's chicken tenders are a must-try dish. They are known for their juicy and flavorful interior, which is perfectly complemented by a crispy exterior. The seasoning is on point, adding a nice depth of flavor to each bite.
In addition to the tenders themselves, Parson's also provides a tasty dipping sauce. This condiment adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal, making it even more satisfying. Whether you're a fan of chicken tenders or just looking to try something new, Parson's is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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5. Crisp
Local joint with a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on comfort food

Crisp's chicken tenders are well-regarded for their quality and taste. They use boneless chicken breast tenders, cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. The real standout is their variety of sauces available, allowing customers to customize their order to their liking.
Sauce options include Seoul Sassy, Crisp BBQ, Buffalo (in mild, spicy, or suicide versions), and plain. The crispy exterior of the chicken tenders pairs perfectly with these sauces, adding an extra layer of flavor and enjoyment. Crisp's chicken tenders, with their perfect crispiness and delicious sauces, make for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. Dave’s Hot Chicken
Uses high-quality chicken, spicy Nashville-style hot chicken, casual atmosphere

The chicken slider and the Cauli Slider were standout items in a recent meal. The Reaper Spicy option was accurately described, providing a genuinely spicy experience, while the Extra Hot option was enjoyable but not as intense. The seasoning and cooking of the meat were well-executed, enhancing the overall taste.
Unfortunately, a bitter taste was present, likely caused by well-used or burnt cooking oil, which negatively affected the dining experience. Additionally, the 'hot' spice level did not meet expectations, falling short of the desired heat intensity. Despite these issues, the sliders remained a highlight of the meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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7. Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken
Hand-breaded chicken tenders made to order, with a variety of spicy levels to choose from

I recently placed an order for chicken tenders, fries, and Mac & Cheese. I was pleased with the prices, especially the tenderloins which were only $9 for four pieces. My excitement grew when I opened the package and saw the generous portions.
The chicken tenders were delicious and certainly justify a return visit. Their taste was outstanding and made a positive impression on me.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Lucy's Fried Chicken & Burgers
Offers happy hour specials and live music on weekends

Lucy's chicken tenders have a reputation for being juicy and full of flavor, making them a must-try dish. They are reminiscent of what one might have imagined Popeyes chicken to be like as a child, but with the added sophistication of a more refined palate. While the prices are slightly higher compared to other establishments, the quality of the meal makes it worthwhile. The chicken tenders come with a biscuit and coleslaw, and you can share a plate of fries with someone. Overall, it is highly recommended for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The chicken tenders served at Lucy's are a standout dish, with their juiciness and flavor that make them a must-try. The meal is evocative of childhood memories of Popeyes chicken, but with a more mature taste. Despite the higher prices, the satisfying nature of the dish and the accompanying biscuit and coleslaw make it a worthwhile splurge. Sharing a plate of fries with someone only adds to the enjoyment of the meal. In conclusion, Lucy's chicken tenders are highly recommended for anyone seeking a delicious and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
Dedicated to chicken finger meals, exceptional customer service

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers is a restaurant that prides itself on providing hot and fresh meals with a side of friendly service. Their menu features a variety of options, including chicken tenders, Texas toast, coleslaw, and fries. Customers have praised the crispy and juicy texture of the chicken tenders, noting that they are always served hot and fresh.
However, there have been some criticisms about the flavor of the chicken tenders. While many customers have enjoyed their meals, a few have found the tenders to be lacking in taste. This suggests that while Raising Cane's has a solid reputation for serving high-quality food, there may still be room for improvement in certain areas. Overall, the restaurant remains a popular destination for those looking for a convenient and tasty meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
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10. Harold's Chicken Shack West Loop
Family-owned business since 1950, using secret recipes and fresh ingredients

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. The Budlong Southern Chicken
Family-friendly environment and focuses on sustainably sourced ingredients.

Tenders are a popular food item, and even when they come in smaller sizes, they are still well-liked by customers. These smaller tenders are a great option for those who want a taste of the delicious meal without committing to a larger portion.
At this particular establishment, customers can order two tenders served with Texas Toast and the famous Budlong pickles. The dish comes with a choice of sauce, allowing customers to customize their meal to their liking. This offering is a great choice for those who want a flavorful and satisfying meal without overeating. Overall, the tenders are a delicious and well-received menu item, despite their smaller size.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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12. Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
Featuring a variety of craft beers and cocktails

The chicken tenders had contrasting reviews. One found them to be crispy and juicy, making them a standout choice. The other thought the tenders were slightly dry, but this was offset by the enjoyable dipping sauce.
In summarizing the opinions, the chicken tenders received mixed feedback. Some praised their crispy and juicy texture, while others felt they were a bit dry. However, all seemed to appreciate the redeeming quality of the dipping sauce.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Vegetarian Options
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13. Fry the Coop (West Town)
Family-owned business, Focus on quality and freshness, Community involvement

The chicken tenders served at Fry the Coop are renowned for their exceptional taste and quality. They boast a delightful crispy exterior, while still managing to retain a satisfying juiciness on the inside. These tenders are a must-try for any chicken lover.
Fry the Coop's chicken tenders have earned a well-deserved reputation for being some of the best in the business. Their exceptional taste and texture make them a standout choice. If you're in the mood for delicious, high-quality chicken tenders, Fry the Coop is the place to go.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Local favorite for southern-style comfort food

The fried chicken tenders were a clear standout in the meal, receiving high praise for their taste. Accompanied by classic white bread and dill pickles, the dish was a satisfying and savory experience. The chicken tenders had a delightful flavor that made them a memorable part of the meal.
The chicken tenders were not only delicious on their own but also came with a variety of sauces that added an extra layer of flavor. The sauces complemented the tenders well, providing a range of taste options to suit any preference. Overall, the chicken tenders were a hit, with their delicious taste and great additions making for an enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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15. The Art of Chicken
Rotisserie chickens slow-cooked to perfection, homemade sides and desserts

The chicken tenders had an excellent texture - crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Both the kids and I enjoyed them thoroughly. The seasoning on the tenders was perfect, adding a depth of flavor that made them even more delicious.
Overall, the chicken tenders were a hit. They were cooked to perfection, with a satisfying crunch and tender, flavorful meat inside. The seasoning was on point, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. It's clear that a lot of care and attention went into making these tenders.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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16. CityBird Tenders
Hand-breaded tenders, Local ingredients, Scratch-made sauces

The chicken tenders served in this establishment are exceptionally crispy and full of flavor. They are a must-try for anyone visiting. The tenders have a perfect texture, with a crispy exterior that gives way to juicy and well-seasoned chicken.
Adoration for the chicken tenders is well-deserved, as they are not only juicy but also come with incredible sauces. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor and elevate the dish to a new level. The combination of crispy, flavorful chicken and delicious sauces makes for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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17. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
Drive-thru and online ordering available

The service at this establishment is consistently praised by guests for its friendliness and speed. Some guests have even gone as far as to call it the best service they have ever received. The chicken tenders served here are always fresh and hot, making for a satisfying meal.
The chicken tenders are large in size and have a light and airy breading. The meat inside is juicy and full of flavor, while the exterior is crispy and complimented by a delicious sauce. Guests have raved about the quality and taste of the chicken tenders, making it a standout dish at the establishment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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18. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Buttermilk fried chicken, Homemade biscuits, Southern-inspired breakfast

The chicken tenders I tried were somewhat lacking in flavor for my personal preference. However, the texture of the tenders was well-prepared and enjoyable.
I ordered chicken tenders for my family, and they were a success. The tenders were cooked and seasoned to perfection, making them a crowd-pleaser.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Sir Chicken

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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20. CM Korean Fried Chicken of Lincoln Park Chicago 충만 치킨
Korean-style fried chicken with a unique blend of flavors and spices

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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