Top 26 fried chicken in San Jose
Fried chicken is a beloved dish found throughout the world, and San Jose is no exception. This city in the heart of Silicon Valley offers a variety of options for fried chicken lovers, from classic Southern-style recipes to innovative fusion creations. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, trying the fried chicken in San Jose is a must-try culinary experience. From food trucks to sit-down restaurants, there's something for every palate and budget.
- 1. Chikin Drip
- 2. Krispy Krunchy Chicken
- 3. Jojo’s Hot Chicken
- 4. Angry Chickz - San Jose (Meridian Ave)
- 5. Scratch Cookery
- 6. Starbird Chicken
- 7. Angry Chickz - San Jose (Saratoga Ave)
- 8. Jollibee
- 9. Dave's Hot Chicken
- 10. Von's Chicken
- 11. CHICK N' BROS
- 12. Fire Wings
- 13. Krispy Krunchy Chicken
- 14. Pollo Campero - Digital Kitchen San Jose
- 15. LEFT WING
- 16. Vons Chicken | San Jose
- 17. MoDak Korean Chicken 모닭
- 18. Chubby’s Chickn Food Truck
- 19. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
- 20. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
- 21. Kokodek Korean Fried Chicken
- 22. Bonchon McKee
- 23. Chicken Licious
- 24. Bonchon San Jose - Blossom Hill Rd
- 25. ANGRY HOT CHICKEN
- 26. KFC
1. Chikin Drip
Family-owned business, locally sourced ingredients, and a commitment to community involvement.

Chikin Drip is a restaurant that specializes in serving chicken with a juicy interior and crispy breading. Their signature spice is a dry rub that features predominantly paprika and chili powder, giving the chicken a unique and flavorful taste. Among the popular menu items are crispy fries, fried chicken, and spicy chicken sandwiches, all of which are cooked to perfection and sure to satisfy.
The restaurant is known for its high-quality food and excellent service. The chicken is always fresh and expertly prepared, and the sides are the perfect complement to the main dish. The spicy chicken sandwiches have a nice kick to them, but they're not overwhelmingly hot. Overall, Chikin Drip is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious, well-cooked chicken and satisfying sides.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
- Late Night
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2. Krispy Krunchy Chicken
Family-owned business serving Cajun-style fried chicken

The fried chicken served at this location is exceptional, with a crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior that leaves a lasting impression. Customers rave about the quality of the chicken and the generously sized portions, making it a top recommendation for anyone seeking delicious fried chicken.
Visitors are sure to enjoy the crispy and delicious fried chicken that this establishment offers. With its satisfying portions, this place has earned a reputation as a must-visit spot for anyone looking to indulge in some high-quality fried chicken. The dish's exceptional taste and the restaurant's commitment to serving generous portions have made it a standout option.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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3. Jojo’s Hot Chicken
Offers both dine-in and takeout options, Made-to-order with fresh ingredients, Uses high-quality local chicken

Jojo's Hot Chicken is known for its delicious and flavorful chicken dishes with generous portions. Their fried chicken, in particular, has received high praise, with the sandwich being a standout menu item. The restaurant has gained a reputation for its crispy fried chicken that has a perfect tender interior.
I can personally attest to the wonderful fried chicken at Jojo's Hot Chicken. It has a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the inside is incredibly juicy and tender. Whether you're a fan of chicken sandwiches or just love fried chicken in general, Jojo's Hot Chicken is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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4. Angry Chickz - San Jose (Meridian Ave)
Served with coleslaw, fries, and homemade biscuits

Are you on the search for the best hot chicken sandwiches in SJ? Look no further! One popular spot is known for their use of dark meat, which results in incredibly juicy sandwiches. The generous portion sizes are also a hit with customers.
I recently tried their combo #1, which includes two chicken sliders with slaw, pickles, and fries. While I appreciated the crunch and tang from the slaw and pickles, the hot-flavored chicken was a bit too spicy for my low spice tolerance. Despite the heat, the chicken was undeniably tender and juicy. Overall, it was a satisfying meal, but be prepared for a spicy kick if you choose the hot flavor.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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5. Scratch Cookery
Uses local and organic ingredients, offers vegan and gluten-free options

The fried chicken at this location is a standout dish. Its exterior is crispy and well-seasoned, while the interior remains juicy and flavorful. This makes it a must-try for any visitor.
Among the menu options, the Level 2 Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich is particularly recommended. The spice level is expertly balanced, providing a pleasant kick without overwhelming the palate. The chicken itself is expertly cooked, with a tender and delicious texture that complements the sandwich as a whole.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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6. Starbird Chicken
Southern-style comfort food, Locally sourced ingredients

The fried chicken served at this establishment may be slightly dry for some, but the crispy and crunchy fries are a definite highlight. The fast and convenient customer service is notable, with orders being prepared in a timely manner. The fried chicken is a widely popular choice among patrons.
In addition to the fries, the establishment's customer service is a standout feature. Orders are quickly prepared and ready for pick-up or delivery. The fried chicken, in particular, is a customer favorite, although it may not be to everyone's taste due to its slightly dry texture.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
7. Angry Chickz - San Jose (Saratoga Ave)
Hand-breaded fried chicken and made-to-order meals

The fried chicken at this establishment is known for its juiciness, rich flavor, and spiciness. The speedy service provides customers with a variety of spice levels to choose from and an array of flavors to enjoy. However, it is worth noting that the spice level can be significantly hotter than at other restaurants.
The food is delicious, but those who are not accustomed to very spicy food may want to exercise caution when selecting their spice level. It is recommended to go 1 or 2 levels below the spiciness level one can typically handle. This will ensure the chicken can still be enjoyed without overpowering heat.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
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8. Jollibee
Filipino-style fast food chain with a wide range of offerings

Jollibee, a well-known fast food chain, is famous for its signature dish, Chicken Joy. This fried chicken is highly regarded in the fast food industry, with both spicy and original options available. However, some customers find the original version to be overly salty.
In addition to Chicken Joy, Jollibee offers a spicy fried chicken option that is particularly popular among customers. While the spicy version is a hit, the original Chicken Joy may not appeal to all customers due to its high salt content. Despite this, Jollibee's fried chicken remains a popular choice for many fast food enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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9. Dave's Hot Chicken
Family-owned business offering Nashville-style hot chicken

The chicken tenders served at this location are large in size and full of flavor. They offer a variety of spice levels to suit different tastes, and the fries that accompany the tenders are always fresh and crispy.
Moving on to the fried chicken, it is truly exceptional. The exterior of the chicken is crispy and golden brown, while the interior remains juicy and packed with flavor. The spice level is well-balanced, adding a kick without overpowering the taste of the chicken itself. Whether you're a fan of spicy or milder flavors, this fried chicken is sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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10. Von's Chicken
Family-owned restaurant offering a variety of Korean-style fried chicken dishes

My friend recently brought some honey butter wings for me to try, and they exceeded my expectations. The seasoning was excellent and there was a perfect amount of crispiness. I was impressed by the quality of the chicken, and I've found most of the items I've tried at this place to be delicious.
In particular, I highly recommend the real garlic chicken and the oven special sauce. These two options are among my favorites, and I think anyone who enjoys flavorful chicken dishes would agree. The real garlic chicken has a strong and satisfying garlic flavor, while the oven special sauce adds a rich and savory element to the chicken. Overall, I'm very pleased with the food and would encourage anyone who enjoys delicious chicken wings to give this place a try.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. CHICK N' BROS
Friendly staff, Casual atmosphere, Vegetarian options available

Chicken sandwiches are a common food item in today's society, but one particular sandwich stands out as a favorite for many. This sandwich was first tried at a Marriott company event, where it was being catered. What makes this sandwich special is its inclusivity, as they offer a variety of sandwich options to suit everyone's tastes.
The fried chicken sandwich from this establishment is widely regarded as the best available. It boasts a delicious, juicy flavor that has won over the taste buds of many customers, who have returned multiple times to enjoy it again. The sandwich's consistent quality has earned it a loyal following.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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12. Fire Wings
Features a unique fire-based sauce bar

The wings at this establishment are exceptional, providing a refreshing alternative to the more popular franchises currently available. My wife and I wish we had tried it sooner and plan to return in the future. The atmosphere is comfortable and friendly, with reasonable prices to match.
The counter staff at this location are especially friendly and attentive, always ensuring that my wings are hot, fresh, and delicious. I appreciate the option of carrots and celery as a side, and the variety of sauce options available, though I personally prefer the mango habanero. Parking is also convenient, with adequate space always available.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Krispy Krunchy Chicken
Family-owned chain, serving Cajun-style fried chicken

Krispy Krunchy Fried Chicken is a popular choice for many due to its delicious and crunchy exterior with tender and juicy meat on the inside. The establishment offers a variety of meal options, but their signature dish is the fried chicken, which can be enjoyed with a side and a biscuit for just over ten dollars.
This fried chicken stands out from others due to its unique seasoning and cooking process. The seasoning blend, which includes a mix of herbs and spices, creates a flavorful coating that sets it apart. The chicken is fried to perfection, with a golden and crispy exterior that gives way to a moist and flavorful interior. The meal comes with a side of your choice, such as coleslaw or baked beans, and a biscuit, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day. Overall, Krispy Krunchy's fried chicken is a must-try for any fried chicken lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Pollo Campero - Digital Kitchen San Jose
Digital kitchen with contactless ordering and payment

The fried chicken at this location is truly exceptional. It has a crispy exterior that provides a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the interior remains juicy and flavorful. The quality of the chicken and the precision of the cooking process make it worth any potential wait.
In terms of taste, the fried chicken stands out due to its impressive seasoning and careful preparation. The seasoning is perfectly balanced, adding depth and interest to the chicken without overpowering its natural flavor. Moreover, the chicken is cooked to perfection, ensuring that it is neither undercooked nor dry. Overall, the fried chicken is a must-try for any chicken lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Suburban
- Dinner
15. LEFT WING
Local favorite with catering and delivery options

Crispy Original, a popular food item known for its distinctive crispy style chicken, comes with a caution for customers with allergies. The food may contain milk, eggs, wheat, soybean, peanuts, garlic, and corn. These ingredients could potentially trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, so it is important to exercise caution when consuming this product.
The Crispy Original Fried Chicken is a specific offering within this line of products. Priced at $22.50, this dish features the same famous crispy style chicken, but without any additional toppings or flavorings. Like all Crispy Original products, it is subject to the same allergy warning, as it may contain traces of milk, eggs, wheat, soybean, peanuts, garlic, and corn.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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16. Vons Chicken | San Jose
Offers a variety of flavors for fried chicken, Includes homemade sides and sauces

The spicy crispy fried chicken is a popular dish that is enjoyed by many. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the chicken make it a delicious and satisfying meal. One standout feature of this dish is the option for customizable spice levels, allowing individuals to choose the level of heat that suits their taste preferences.
Among our group, the spicy crispy fried chicken, particularly the crispy and yangnyum wings, is a clear favorite. The crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the yangnyum sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. With the choice of various spice levels, this dish caters to a wide range of palates and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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17. MoDak Korean Chicken 모닭
Authentic Korean-style fried chicken, In-house seasoned flour for extra crispiness

The restaurant offers excellent service and delicious flavors, making it a great option for a meal. The reviewer is already planning to visit again. Two Korean chicken restaurants are located near each other, and the reviewer ordered takeout from one of them to compare. They ordered the boneless chicken sampler to try all the flavors.
The boneless chicken sampler included several unique and interesting flavors. The reviewer appreciated the opportunity to try a variety of options in one order. By comparing different Korean chicken restaurants nearby, the reviewer can make informed decisions about where to go in the future. Overall, the reviewer's experience with the restaurant's takeout was positive, and they encourage others to try it too.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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18. Chubby’s Chickn Food Truck

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Drive-thru and catering services available.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is known for its delicious fried chicken. The chicken has a crispy exterior and juicy meat inside, providing a satisfying texture and taste. The restaurant's staff is friendly, contributing to a positive dining experience.
However, the exterior of the restaurant and its parking lot could use some attention. There have been complaints of cleanliness and maintenance issues, which can detract from the overall experience of dining at Popeyes. Despite these concerns, the food remains a highlight, making it a standard fast food chicken experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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20. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Drive-thru and catering services available, uses authentic Louisiana seasonings

The fried chicken served was hot and crispy, with a perfectly applied seasoning that enhanced its flavor. One of the dishes ordered was the fried chicken combo, which proved to be a satisfying and delicious choice. The chicken was cooked to perfection, with juiciness that added to its savoriness. The sides that accompanied the combo were also enjoyable and contributed to the overall dining experience.
In summary, the fried chicken dish had an appealing crispy texture and excellent seasoning, making it a success. The fried chicken combo offered a combination of juicy chicken and delightful sides that further elevated the meal's quality. Both dishes demonstrated the restaurant's ability to prepare delicious and enjoyable fried chicken.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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21. Kokodek Korean Fried Chicken
Hand-brushed sauces; Freshly prepared ingredients; Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options

Kokodek Korean Fried Chicken is a popular dining destination, known for its attentive staff who are always ready to answer menu-related questions and take orders for food and drinks. The restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, with its signature dish being Korean-style fried chicken.
The chicken served at Kokodek Korean Fried Chicken features a perfectly crispy breading that is both visually appealing and satisfying to bite into. The dish is further enhanced by flavorful sauces and garnishes, adding a depth of taste that keeps diners coming back for more. Overall, the restaurant provides a memorable and enjoyable dining experience that is sure to leave a positive impression on its patrons.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
22. Bonchon McKee
Authentic Korean-style fried chicken, casual atmosphere, and varied menu

Korean fried chicken is renowned for its delicious, crispy texture and unique blend of spices. This popular dish is available in a variety of cuts, including wings, drums, and strips. The combination of flavors and crunchy exterior make it a standout dish among food enthusiasts.
The service at most Korean fried chicken establishments is known for being fast, efficient, and friendly. Staff are attentive and ensure that customers have everything they need for a satisfying meal. Their focus on customer service, combined with the mouth-watering food, creates a dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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23. Chicken Licious
Serves Halal meat, Offers catering services, Has a drive-thru window

The fried chicken served here is truly delicious. Its exterior is crispy and adds a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the interior remains juicy and packed with flavor. This fried chicken is highly recommended and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful fried chicken experience, be sure to try the Ayam Penyet. This Indonesian dish features chicken that has been marinated, boiled, deep-fried, and then smashed. The result is a deliciously crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat. The smashing process also allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken, making each bite a burst of flavor. Ayam Penyet is a must-try for any fried chicken lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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24. Bonchon San Jose - Blossom Hill Rd
Wide variety of flavors, including soy garlic and spicy

BonChon is famous for its Korean-style fried chicken, which is available in spicy and soy garlic flavors. The restaurant's menu features various food options beyond chicken, such as chicken wings, octopus, tacos, calamari, and Kimchi cole slaw.
I have visited a busy BonChon location, and I would recommend the Sunnyvale branch instead due to its larger drumsticks. Despite the difference in size, the flavor of this location's chicken is consistently excellent, making it a strong contender for my go-to BonChon spot.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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25. ANGRY HOT CHICKEN
Local favorite, Uses locally sourced ingredients, Offers various spice levels

The fried chicken in this area is known for its delicious taste. In particular, Korean-style fried chicken stands out for its exceptional flavor and texture. The crispy exterior, achieved through a double-frying process, provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. The chicken is seasoned well and cooked to perfection, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
A variety of sauces can be added to the Korean fried chicken to give it an extra kick. These sauces range from spicy to sweet and tangy, adding another layer of flavor to the dish. Some popular options include soy garlic, spicy yangnyeom, and honey mustard. No matter which sauce is chosen, it is sure to complement the crispy and juicy chicken, elevating the taste to a whole new level.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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26. KFC
Drive-thru and delivery services available, Colonel's Club rewards program, Kid-friendly menu options

The fried chicken served at KFC was not up to the expected quality. It was overcooked and dry, which was disappointing for the diners. The restaurant failed to maintain the standard of its chicken, which is known for being juicy and flavorful.
In addition to the disappointing chicken, the service at KFC was also slow. Despite the wait, the chicken was not up to the mark, which added to the disappointment. The slow service further deteriorated the dining experience, leaving a negative impression on the customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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