2025 Guide to Best Fried Chicken in San Antonio

After sampling 13 different establishments, I can confidently say that San Antonio has some of the most mouthwatering fried chicken around.

From crispy coatings to flavorful marinades, each spot offers its unique twist on this beloved classic.

Join me as I take you through my top picks, highlighting what makes each one special.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will ensure your next fried chicken feast is nothing short of extraordinary!

Pete's Hot Chicken

Highlights
Best hot chicken in San Antonio
Extremely moist tenders
Well-balanced spice coating
Crispy fries, fluffy inside
Limited inside seating

Pete's Hot Chicken has become a delightful hotspot for fried chicken enthusiasts in San Antonio, and let me tell you — it deserves the attention! Stepping inside, I was greeted by the aroma of spices that ignited my appetite instantly. Their hot chicken is nothing short of a revelation; each tender piece is exquisitely moist, boasting a flavor that dances on the palate.

The secret lies in their well-balanced spice coating that delivers just the right amount of kick without overwhelming the senses. I often find it challenging to achieve that perfect balance, but Pete's has it down to an art. And don’t even get me started on their crispy fries! They are delightfully fluffy on the inside and provide the perfect textural contrast to the chicken.

While seating is somewhat limited, it encourages a lively atmosphere with patrons eagerly waiting to savor their meals. If you're on a quest for the best fried chicken in San Antonio, Pete's Hot Chicken is a must-visit. I can't wait to return and indulge in another round of their irresistible delights!

You might also want to check out the best fried chicken in New Braunfels.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Highlights
Crispy, non-breaded chicken
Juicy, flavorful every bite
Friendly and quick service
Complimentary parking available
Delicious fried green tomatoes

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is a true gem nestled in San Antonio, and I can confidently say it lives up to its name! From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles, setting the tone for an enjoyable dining experience. The chicken here is nothing short of spectacular—cooked without additional breading, each piece boasts an irresistible, crunchy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat.

With every bite, the flavors meld delightfully, leaving you yearning for more. I particularly enjoyed the fried green tomatoes, which offered the perfect tangy contrast to the rich chicken, making for a well-rounded culinary adventure.

And let’s talk about the logistics—the ample complimentary parking was a pleasant surprise, ensuring my visit remained stress-free. Plus, the quick service meant I didn’t have to wait long to dive into the deliciousness! Gus's provides not just a meal, but an experience that’s definitely worth savoring. If you find yourself in San Antonio and in the mood for extraordinary fried chicken, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken should absolutely be your destination.

You might also want to check out the best fried chicken in Boerne.

Cullum's Attagirl

Highlights
Delicious fried wings
Good selection of beers
Vegan option available
Tasty Girl's Tyme Fries
Great atmosphere and seating

Let me start off by saying that the fried wings at Cullum's Attagirl are delicious! They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning. Each bite is a heavenly experience that will transport you to fried chicken bliss.

One of the things that impressed me about Cullum's Attagirl is their good selection of beers. They have a variety of local brews on tap that pair perfectly with their fried chicken. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just someone who loves a cold one with your meal, you won't be disappointed.

Now, here's something that sets Cullum's Attagirl apart from other fried chicken joints: they have a vegan option available. So if you are looking to enjoy some delicious fried chicken without the guilt, they've got you covered. Their vegan fried chicken is surprisingly flavorful and satisfying, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike.

In addition to their mouthwatering chicken, Cullum's Attagirl also serves Tasty Girl's Tyme Fries, which are crispy fries loaded with all the fixings you could ever dream of. Trust me, one bite of these fries and you'll be instantly hooked.

Not only is the food top-notch, but the atmosphere at Cullum's Attagirl is also fantastic. With its laid-back vibe and comfortable seating, it's the perfect spot to enjoy some delicious chicken and good company.

So, if you're on the hunt for the best fried chicken in San Antonio, look no further than Cullum's Attagirl. With their delectable wings, great beer selection, vegan option, tasty fries, and inviting atmosphere, this place is a true gem. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best chicken sandwich in San Antonio.

Mr C's Fried Chicken and Waffles

Highlights
Clean and friendly service
Delicious macaroni n cheese
Tasty flavored waffles
Crispy and flavorful fried chicken
Great food, fast service

Walking into Mr C's, I was immediately charmed by the clean and welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff made me feel right at home as they swiftly took my order. The anticipation was rising as I waited for my much-anticipated plate of fried chicken and waffles.

But let me tell you, this place did not disappoint. The first bite of the chicken sent my taste buds into a frenzy. The crispy exterior gave way to tender and juicy meat, bursting with flavor. Every bite was a delightful dance of savory goodness.

And let's not forget about the sides. The macaroni and cheese was a heavenly creation. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly cooked pasta - it brought me right back to mom's kitchen. Just one bite, and I was transported to comfort food heaven.

Now, let me take a minute to talk about those waffles. The flavors they offered were out of this world. From classic plain to indulgent strawberry cheesecake, every waffle creation had its own unique twist. The waffles were fluffy, light, and delectable, perfectly complementing the chicken.

In addition to the outstanding food, I have to commend Mr C's on their fast service. Despite being crowded, my order arrived promptly. You could truly feel the dedication to providing customers with a great dining experience.

Overall, my visit to Mr C's Fried Chicken and Waffles was an absolute delight. The combination of crispy and flavorful fried chicken, delicious macaroni and cheese, and the tantalizing waffles had me leaving with a big smile on my face. If you're on the hunt for the best fried chicken in San Antonio, Mr C's should be at the top of your list.

You might also want to check out the best chicken fried steak in New Braunfels.

Gold Feather

Highlights
Crispy Wings
Flavorful Seasoning
Fresh Food & Helpful Staff
Fantastic Chicken Sandwiches
Sweet Potato Waffle Fries

Let me start off by saying, the fried chicken at Gold Feather is an absolute delight for your tastebuds! As soon as I took my first bite into those crispy wings, I knew I was in for a treat. The breading was perfectly crispy, providing that satisfying crunch that every fried chicken lover craves.

What set Gold Feather apart from the rest was their flavorful seasoning. Each bite was bursting with a combination of herbs and spices that took the chicken to a whole new level. It was clear that the folks in the kitchen knew their way around a spice rack.

Not only did the food exceed my expectations, but the overall experience was superb. The staff was incredibly helpful and genuinely friendly, enhancing the dining atmosphere. They were more than happy to provide suggestions and answer any questions I had about their menu.

Now, if you're into sandwiches, you simply cannot pass up the fantastic chicken sandwiches at Gold Feather. They were exquisitely assembled with generous portions of their mouthwatering fried chicken. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that left me wanting more.

And let's not forget about the sides! I indulged in their sweet potato waffle fries which were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It was a delightful twist on a classic side dish and complemented the fried chicken impeccably.

All in all, Gold Feather is a hidden gem in San Antonio when it comes to fried chicken. From their crispy wings to their flavorful seasoning and fantastic chicken sandwiches, they have everything a fried chicken enthusiast could dream of. So put on your stretchy pants, head on over, and prepare your taste buds for a finger-licking experience like no other!

You might also want to check out the best chicken fried steak in East Side San Antonio.

Che's Chicken & Burgers

Highlights
Bigger chicken pieces than competitors
Friendly and helpful staff
Kid-friendly atmosphere
Wheelchair accessible
Delicious onion rings

Walking into Che's Chicken & Burgers, I was greeted by a friendly and helpful staff, immediately setting a positive tone for my visit. The aroma of crispy fried chicken filled the air, teasing my taste buds and heightening my excitement.

What sets Che's Chicken & Burgers apart from the rest is their bigger chicken pieces that completely deliver on flavor and juiciness. Each bite was a tender explosion of golden crispiness. The chicken's tantalizing crunch was music to my ears!

I appreciated the kid-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for a family outing. The staff went the extra mile to make sure younger guests felt welcomed and comfortable.

Another impressive aspect of Che's Chicken & Burgers is their commitment to accessibility. Being wheelchair accessible, it opens up the experience to anyone wanting to indulge in their fantastic fare.

One delightful surprise on the menu was the delicious onion rings. These crispy rings of flavorful perfection were the ideal complement to the scrumptious fried chicken, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to my meal.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place where you can savor bigger, juicy chicken pieces, with a helpful and friendly staff, in a kid-friendly and accessible environment, Che's Chicken & Burgers is the place to be. They truly deserve a spot among the best fried chicken joints in San Antonio.

You might also want to check out the best chicken fried steak in Boerne.

Church's Texas Chicken

Highlights
Super nice staff
Fresh and golden chicken
Clean store
Friendly staff
Always fresh food

As soon as I stepped into the store, I was greeted by a super nice staff who seemed genuinely happy to serve me. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and I could already catch a whiff of the fresh and golden chicken being cooked in the back.

The store was impeccably clean, with tables and floors shining as if they were just polished moments ago. It was reassuring to see such attention to cleanliness, as it gave me confidence in the quality of the food being prepared.

When I placed my order, the staff was both friendly and efficient, ensuring that I didn't have to wait long for my meal. And boy, was it worth the short wait! The chicken was always fresh, with a perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, leaving me satisfied and craving for more.

What really stood out to me about Church's Texas Chicken was their commitment to consistently delivering fresh food. It's evident that they prioritize serving their customers with the best quality chicken they can offer.

If you're in San Antonio and on the hunt for the best fried chicken, look no further than Church's Texas Chicken. With their friendly staff, clean store, and consistently fresh and delicious food, it's no wonder they land a spot on the list of the best fried chicken joints in San Antonio.

You might also want to check out the best bbq in San Antonio.

Chatman's Chicken Restaurant

Highlights
Best fried chicken
Great prices
Perfect sides
Flavorful food
Clean and accessible parking

When it comes to fried chicken, Chatman's Chicken Restaurant in San Antonio takes the crown. This joint serves up the best fried chicken in town, hands down.

First things first, the prices at Chatman's are great. You can enjoy a finger-licking plate of crispy chicken without breaking the bank. It's a win-win situation, my friend.

But it's not just about the chicken; the sides at Chatman's are perfect. From fluffy mashed potatoes to buttery cornbread, every bite complements the flavorful chicken. It's a symphony of tastes that will have you reaching for seconds.

The food itself is nothing short of remarkable. Each piece of chicken is bursting with flavor, thanks to their secret blend of spices. The crunchy golden exterior gives way to tender and juicy meat – it's a match made in chicken heaven.

And let's not forget about the ambiance. Chatman's delivers on cleanliness, making it a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. Plus, the parking situation is convenient, so there's no need to circle the block in frustration.

If you're on the hunt for the best fried chicken in San Antonio, look no further than Chatman's Chicken Restaurant. With their unbeatable flavors, reasonable prices, and delightful sides, they have truly earned their spot at the top. Don't miss out on this clucking fantastic dining experience!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in San Antonio.

Bush's Chicken

Highlights
Fresh and tasty
Clean and well-maintained
Polite and friendly staff
Delicious crispy chicken

Walking into Bush's Chicken, I was immediately struck by the clean and well-maintained interior, which set the tone for the delicious meal I was about to enjoy. The staff greeted me with a warm smile, instantly making me feel welcomed and comfortable.

After perusing the menu, I couldn't resist ordering their famous fried chicken. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. The chicken was fresh and tasty, with a crispy golden crust that perfectly locked in the juicy goodness within. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

But what truly stood out about Bush's Chicken was the impeccable service. The staff, from the cashier to the cooks, were polite and friendly throughout my visit. They went above and beyond to ensure that I had an excellent dining experience. Their attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction truly left a lasting impression.

As a fried chicken connoisseur, I can confidently say that Bush's Chicken deserves a spot on the list of the best fried chicken joints in San Antonio. Their commitment to serving delicious crispy chicken combined with their exceptional service is a winning combination. So, if you find yourself in San Antonio and craving some finger-lickin' good fried chicken, make sure to stop by Bush's Chicken. You won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in San Antonio.

Golden Nuggett Fried Chicken

Highlights
Good food
Friendly service
Affordable prices
Longstanding history

From the moment I walked into the cozy and inviting restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The tantalizing aroma of Golden Nuggett's famous fried chicken filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the fried chicken. Oh boy, was it a delight! Every bite was packed with flavor and had the perfect balance of crispy skin and succulent, juicy meat. The secret blend of herbs and spices gave the chicken a unique and addictive taste that kept me coming back for more. The chicken was cooked to perfection, ensuring a moist and tender experience with each piece.

What impressed me the most about Golden Nuggett was not just their delectable fried chicken, but also their affordable prices. They offer generous portions at reasonable rates, making it an excellent choice for anyone craving a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Despite its affordability, Golden Nuggett has maintained a longstanding history and reputation in San Antonio. This speaks volumes about the consistency and quality of their food. It's clear to me that they understand the magic of fried chicken and have perfected their craft over the years.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fried chicken in San Antonio, look no further than Golden Nuggett Fried Chicken. With its good food, friendly service, affordable prices, and longstanding history, it's a true gem that will satisfy even the most discerning fried chicken aficionados. Trust me, the fried chicken at Golden Nuggett will leave you craving more. Don't miss out on this finger-licking experience!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in San Antonio.

Mr. A Ok's Kitchen

Mr. A Ok's Kitchen in San Antonio is a hidden gem for fried chicken lovers! The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a secret blend of spices that keeps you coming back for more. Don't be fooled by the unassuming exterior, because inside is where the magic happens.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in New Braunfels.

Petes Chicken Shack - El Camino Location

Petes Chicken Shack - El Camino Location in San Antonio is a hidden gem for all the fried chicken fanatics out there. Their golden-brown, crispy coating is simply divine, and the meat is juicy and tender. The seasoning is on point, offering a burst of flavor with each bite. Don't sleep on this one!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Antonio.

Slim Chickens, Military Installation

I had the pleasure of feasting on the crispy delight that is Slim Chickens' fried chicken at their Military Installation location in San Antonio. Let me tell you, folks, this chicken is the real deal. The crunch when you bite into it is satisfying, and each piece is seasoned to perfection. The chicken is juicy and tender, and the flavor is simply out of this world. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a whole meal, Slim Chickens has got you covered. Don't miss out on their signature sauces either - they take the chicken to a whole new level. Trust me, when it comes to the best fried chicken in San Antonio, Slim Chickens does not disappoint.

You might also want to check out the best tex mex in San Antonio.