Top 26 chicken sandwiches in Chicago
In the bustling city of Chicago, chicken sandwiches have become a popular staple among food lovers. These delectable dishes, often featuring juicy and crispy chicken breasts, are served in a variety of ways, from classic fried chicken sandwiches to spicy or grilled versions. Chicago's vibrant food scene offers an array of options for chicken sandwich enthusiasts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving this mouthwatering treat.
- 1. The Budlong Southern Chicken
- 2. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
- 3. Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken
- 4. Red Light Chicken
- 5. The Budlong Southern Chicken
- 6. Honey Butter Fried Chicken
- 7. GG's Chicken Shop
- 8. Dave’s Hot Chicken
- 9. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
- 10. Hot Chi Chicken & Cones
- 11. Fry the Coop (Lincoln Park)
- 12. Byrd's Hot Chicken
- 13. Big City Chicken
- 14. CityBird Tenders
- 15. Capriotti's Sandwich Shop
- 16. Chitown Chicken
- 17. Chick-fil-A
- 18. Crisp
- 19. Chick-fil-A
- 20. Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken
- 21. Fry the Coop (West Town)
- 22. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
- 23. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
- 24. Potbelly
- 25. Lucy's Fried Chicken & Burgers
- 26. Sir Chicken
1. The Budlong Southern Chicken
Uses locally sourced, hormone-free chicken, Spicy Pimento Cheese

The chicken sandwich in question features tender, succulent chicken with a spicy house sauce, offered in a size that, while smaller than some, has still managed to win over many customers.
However, despite its promising description, the sandwich has left some diners extremely disappointed. Contrary to the advertised deliciousness, the reality of the sandwich falls short of expectations.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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2. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Local favorite, comfort food, homemade biscuits

The Nashville hot chicken sandwich is a highly regarded dish, known for its spicy flavor and unique toppings. One of its key features is the jalapeño pimento cheese, which adds a creamy and tangy kick to the sandwich. The hot honey used in the dish also provides a subtle sweetness that complements the heat of the chicken. The sandwich is typically served on a biscuit or bun, both of which are freshly baked and soft, providing a satisfying contrast to the crispy fried chicken.
Customers rave about the fried chicken sandwich, which is widely praised for its high-quality ingredients and delicious taste. One aspect of the sandwich that stands out is the biscuit, which is often described as being buttery, flaky, and perfectly cooked. Whether it's the crispy texture of the fried chicken, the flavor of the spices used, or the high-quality ingredients, the fried chicken sandwich is a popular choice among food enthusiasts. Overall, both the Nashville hot chicken sandwich and the fried chicken sandwich are standout dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving for bold, flavorful food.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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3. Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken
Korean-style fried chicken with a variety of spicy levels

The chicken sandwich in question is a delicious and flavorful option for any meal. The chicken used is boneless and juicy, and customers have the choice to add spice to their liking. The sandwich is served on a soft, fresh bun that adds to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
In addition to the spicy chicken and bun, the sandwich also comes with a variety of toppings that contribute to its overall flavor profile. Coleslaw, jalapeno, and onion are all included, as well as spicy mayo. These toppings help to balance out the heat of the chicken and add an extra layer of flavor to the sandwich. For an additional charge, cheese can also be added to the sandwich.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. Red Light Chicken
Creative flavor combinations, delicious homemade sauces, and a fun, casual atmosphere

The chicken sandwiches at this establishment are truly exceptional. The hot honey sandwich, in particular, is a must-try. It comes with a delicious combination of mayo and pickles that enhances the flavor of the hot and honeyed chicken. The balance of sweet and savory in this sandwich is incredible, making it a standout item on the menu.
The hot and honey sauce on the chicken sandwiches is perfectly balanced, adding a nice kick of heat without overpowering the other flavors. Another standout item is the truffle fries, which are a great complement to the sandwiches. In summary, if you're a fan of chicken sandwiches, this place is definitely worth checking out. The hot honey sandwich is a must-try, and you won't be disappointed with the truffle fries either!
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
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5. The Budlong Southern Chicken
Uses locally-sourced, hormone-free chicken, with a variety of spicy and non-spicy options

The service at this establishment is often described as a mixed bag. Some customers rave about the quick and friendly service they have received, while others have criticized the customer service for various reasons.
The hot chicken sandwich is a standout menu item that has received high praise from customers. Its generous size and spicy heat level are particularly appreciated by those who have tried it.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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6. Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Serves brunch on weekends, Local beer selection, Southern-style sides

The chicken sandwiches have received positive feedback for their crispy texture, delicious taste, and unique honey butter sauce. The food's flavor, seasoning, and tenderness have been widely praised. Some users have particularly enjoyed the saucy chicken sandwiches, while others have preferred them with a biscuit bun.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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7. GG's Chicken Shop
Family-owned business, hand-breaded chicken, secret spicy sauce

The chicken sandwiches are a notable feature of the menu, particularly the crispy fried chicken option. However, the rotisserie chicken sandwich lacks in flavor in comparison. The buns used in the sandwiches were unfortunately dry and did not contribute much to the overall meal.
Despite the dry buns, there was one positive aspect - the salt on them. This added a much-needed flavor to the buns, but it was not enough to make up for their dry texture. Overall, while the chicken sandwiches have their merits, the buns need improvement to enhance the dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Dave’s Hot Chicken
Offers varying spice levels, from no spice to 'reaper' level

The chicken sandwich combo I tried was a delicious choice. The chicken was crispy and well-seasoned, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal. This culinary experience was enhanced by the combination of ingredients, including a savory spicy mayo and pickles that added a tangy and satisfying taste.
If you're in the mood for a chicken sandwich, this is the place to go. The establishment offers amazing chicken sandwiches that are sure to satisfy your cravings. One of the highlights of the sandwich is the spicy mayo and pickles that add a perfect touch, complementing the well-seasoned and crispy chicken to create a well-rounded and delicious meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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9. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Family-owned business with decades-long history and loyal fans

Gus's chicken sandwich is a standout option for any sandwich lover. The seasoning is expertly applied, providing excellent flavor in each bite. Additionally, the portion size is more than satisfactory, leaving customers feeling full and satisfied.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. Hot Chi Chicken & Cones
Creative chicken cones, diverse sauces, and cozy atmosphere

The chicken sandwich is a popular menu item, known for its delicious taste and spiciness. Customers appreciate its flavor and adjustable heat levels. Hot Chi Chicken & Cones is a restaurant that specializes in this dish, providing flavorful chicken tenders that cater to different spice preferences.
Although Hot Chi Chicken & Cones' offerings come at a premium price, the quality of their food is top-notch. The restaurant takes great care in preparing each order, ensuring that customers receive a perfect meal. The chicken tenders are a standout item, cooked to perfection and available at a range of spice levels to suit every palate.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Hidden Gems
11. Fry the Coop (Lincoln Park)
Fast-casual chicken shop with a southern twist

The guests' expectations were high upon hearing the food being described as delicious, but they were left extremely dissatisfied. The food received high praise for its flavor, texture, and quality. Some guests even went so far as to comment on the crispy and juicy texture of the food, with an excellent breading that added to the overall taste.
Despite these positive comments, the guests were left feeling disappointed. The reality of the food did not live up to the hype, which had been presented to them. This discrepancy between the high expectations and the actual experience left a bad taste in their mouths, so to speak. Overall, the guests were left wishing that the food had been as good as it had been made out to be.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Byrd's Hot Chicken
Join the 'Byrd's Bird Gang' loyalty program for discounts and freebies

The spicy chicken sandwich from this establishment has received high praise and is often considered to be even better than those found in Nashville, a city known for its hot chicken. It is a standout menu item that has won the hearts of many customers. When ordering, the hot chicken sandwich combo is a popular choice, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful meal.
This restaurant's spicy chicken sandwich has gained a reputation for its exceptional taste, often being compared favorably to the renowned hot chicken sandwiches of Nashville. The hot chicken sandwich combo is a consistently popular order, providing a satisfying and delicious dining experience for patrons. This sandwich is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful and appetizing meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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13. Big City Chicken
Uses locally sourced, hormone-free chicken, Hand-breaded and cooked to order

The chicken sandwich is a popular fast food option, known for its good-quality buns and large size. While some reviewers find it overpriced or lacking in taste, many others consider it delicious and worth the cost.
In terms of service, reviews are mixed. Some guests describe it as fast, while others complain of slow service and poor customer service. Despite these issues, the chicken sandwich remains a highlight for many customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
14. CityBird Tenders
CityBird Tenders has a modern and sleek interior design with a convenient location in the heart of Chicago.

The food at this establishment is excellent, with the Tender Sandwich and the Tenders being particular highlights. The chicken sandwich is delicious, with a flavorful taste and great coleslaw. The fries are also a standout, being awesome and a perfect complement to the meal.
The customer service is also worth mentioning, with excellent service provided by Pam. The prices are very reasonable, making it a great value for the money. The reviewer plans to return to try more of the menu offerings. Both the food and the customer service were impressive, making for a positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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15. Capriotti's Sandwich Shop
Submarine sandwiches made with freshly baked bread and hand-pulled turkey

The Chicken Chipotle Crunch and the Chicken Cheese Steak are both impressive dishes with stellar preparations of chicken. In the Chicken Chipotle Crunch, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a delightful texture. The chipotle ranch dressing served with it brings a spicy and tangy flavor to the dish, making it a standout option.
Moving on to the Chicken Cheese Steak, the chicken is equally well-cooked, with a tender and juicy texture. The melted cheese on top adds a rich and creamy element to the sandwich, making it a satisfying and delicious choice. Both dishes are excellent examples of how high-quality ingredients and careful preparation can result in exceptional culinary experiences.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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16. Chitown Chicken
Crispy and juicy fried chicken, homemade sauces, friendly service

Chicken sandwiches have been positively reviewed by many, but some customers have reported issues with their food. These concerns include finding hair in their sandwiches and receiving spoiled ingredients. This raises questions about the restaurant's food safety practices and the cleanliness of their kitchen.
As for the fish sandwich, it has been described as messy and difficult to eat. In addition to the food quality, the customer service has also been criticized. Poor customer service can have a negative impact on a restaurant's reputation and may deter customers from returning in the future. It is important for restaurants to prioritize both the quality of their food and the level of service they provide to their customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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17. Chick-fil-A
They use only 100% real, boneless breast of chicken

The food at this establishment is consistently praised for its delicious, hot, and freshly made qualities. Popular choices among customers include the chicken sandwich, waffle fries, and spicy chicken sandwich.
The chicken sandwich is a standout menu item, with many customers raving about its delicious taste. There are fans of the classic version, as well as those who enjoy the spicy option. The sandwich can be served on a buttermilk biscuit with cheese, adding to the overall flavor and satisfaction of the dish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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18. Crisp
Uses high-quality, natural ingredients, with vegan and gluten-free options

Crisp offers delicious chicken sandwiches with unique flavors that stand out. One such option is the chicken sandwich with Seoul Sassy sauce, which is widely regarded as one of the best. The chicken is consistently crispy and juicy, adding to the overall enjoyment of the sandwich.
If you're a fan of chicken sandwiches, Crisp is definitely worth checking out. Their sandwiches are packed with flavor, and the chicken is always high-quality. The Seoul Sassy sauce is just one example of the unique and tasty options available. Whether you're looking for something new to try or just a reliably great sandwich, Crisp is sure to deliver.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Chick-fil-A
Known for excellent customer service and closed on Sundays

The food served at this establishment is generally described as fresh, delicious, and well-prepared. It is usually served hot and the service is reported to be good. However, there have been some issues with delivery times leading to food being cold upon arrival for some users.
The chicken sandwich is a popular menu item that receives frequent praise for its taste and quality. Many customers appreciate its affordability. However, there is some inconsistency in the preparation of the sandwich, with some customers reporting that the bread is buttery and soft, while others find it hard and soggy.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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20. Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken
Known for their unique combination of donuts and fried chicken

The donuts are a must-try at this establishment, known for their delicious and high-quality offerings. They are uniquely delicious and satisfying, making them a popular choice among customers. In addition to the donuts, the chicken sandwiches are another standout menu item. They are flavorful and filling, and the first sandwich tried on this visit was particularly impressive.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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21. Fry the Coop (West Town)
Artisan buttermilk marinated chicken, locally sourced ingredients

Fry The Coop is a sandwich restaurant situated in Chicago's West Town neighborhood, known for its exceptional ratings and commitment to using local ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of menu items, but its fried chicken sandwiches stand out as a favorite among patrons.
Two of the most popular fried chicken sandwiches at Fry The Coop are the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich and the Spicy Butter Fried Chicken Sandwich. Both sandwiches have gained a reputation for their delicious taste and quality ingredients, drawing in food enthusiasts from all over the Chicago area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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22. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Uses locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, with homemade sauces and biscuits made fresh daily.

The fried chicken from the order was burnt, not providing a satisfying taste. The chicken sandwich, specifically the one on a biscuit, faced construction issues – the biscuit was not split evenly, causing the top "bun" to fall apart while the bottom was thick. These flaws resulted in the sandwich falling apart during the first bite, making it difficult to enjoy.
However, the rest of the meal was a success. The chicken sandwich with pimento cheese and hot honey was a hit, offering a delightful combination of flavors. The dirty bowl, although not specified in the text, was likely a tasty side dish. The kid's chicken tender meal was also well-received, ensuring a positive experience for the younger diners.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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23. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
Dedicated to chicken finger meals only, Secret sauce creation

The chicken sandwiches offered are renowned for their juiciness and rich flavors. A crispy breading encases the tender chicken, which is guaranteed to be hot and fresh. The combination of these elements results in a truly delightful culinary experience.
In particular, the author's personal experience with the chicken sandwich was nothing short of extraordinary. The chicken was cooked to perfection, with a tenderness that was nearly unparalleled. Furthermore, the sauce added an extra layer of flavor, elevating the sandwich to new heights of deliciousness.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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24. Potbelly
Cozy neighborhood sandwich shop with a laid-back atmosphere and speedy service.

The chicken sandwich I tried was delicious, with tender chicken and fresh toppings. Its popularity is evident, and I would recommend it to others.
Chicken sandwiches are a reliable choice, consistently well-prepared with fresh ingredients and toasted bread. It's a popular option for lunch, and for good reason. The combination of fresh toppings and perfectly toasted bread make it a satisfying and tasty choice. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a delicious meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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25. Lucy's Fried Chicken & Burgers
Uses locally-sourced, hormone-free chicken, Homemade sauces and breads

Tasty and popular chicken sandwiches are a featured menu in this Chicago establishment. The spicy fried chicken sandwich, in particular, is a standout choice, often served with golden fries. A list of Chicago's best chicken sandwiches led a couple to try this place, and they found the spicy sandwich to be a solid selection, with the right balance provided by the slaw.
The chicken sandwich they tried had a delightful crispy exterior and flavorful meat, enhanced by a slight spiciness that was tempered by the accompanying slaw. As they enjoyed their meal, the crispy golden fries proved to be the perfect side dish, making for a highly satisfying meal. This place is definitely a must-visit for anyone looking for excellent chicken sandwiches in the Chicago area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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26. Sir Chicken

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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