The Absolute Best Fried Chicken in Boulder [Updated 2024]

I have lived in Boulder my entire life, and I have tasted my fair share of fried chicken. From roadside diners to trendy new eateries, I have explored every corner of this city in search of the perfect crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken.

After reviewing a whopping 15 restaurants that serve this fried delicacy, I am excited to share my top picks with you. Whether you prefer a classic Southern-style fried chicken or a unique twist on this timeless dish, you can trust my recommendations to satisfy your cravings.

So, let's dive in and discover the best fried chicken that Boulder has to offer!

The Post Chicken & Beer

Highlights
Delicious deviled eggs
Award-winning beer
Flavorful chicken sandwich
Tasty mashed potatoes
Friendly and prompt service

Let me start by saying that The Post Chicken & Beer is a hidden gem in the heart of Boulder. From the moment I stepped foot into the restaurant, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. I knew right away that I was in for a treat.

Now, let's talk about the delicious deviled eggs. These little bites of heaven were perfectly seasoned, creamy, and had just the right amount of tanginess. They were the perfect starter to whet my appetite for what was to come.

Next up, the award-winning beer. The Post Chicken & Beer takes pride in their extensive beer selection, and rightfully so. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there's something to satisfy every palate. The beer was crisp, refreshing, and paired perfectly with the fried chicken.

Ah, the fried chicken. The star of the show. The flavorful chicken sandwich was a mouthwatering delight. The chicken was juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, with just the right amount of seasoning. The bun was fluffy and the toppings added the perfect balance of flavors.

And let's not forget about the tasty mashed potatoes. Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying. They were the perfect complement to the crispy chicken sandwich.

Lastly, the service at The Post Chicken & Beer was top-notch. The staff was not only knowledgeable about the menu but also genuinely friendly and attentive. The prompt service ensured that I didn't have to wait long to indulge in my fried chicken feast.

In conclusion, The Post Chicken & Beer is a must-visit for any fried chicken enthusiast in Boulder. With their delicious deviled eggs, award-winning beer, flavorful chicken sandwich, tasty mashed potatoes, and friendly service, this place has it all. Don't miss out on this finger-licking goodness!

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The Sink

Highlights
Crazy good pizza
Perfect straw burger
Best chicken tenders
Huge portions
Cool atmosphere

First and foremost, let me tell you that The Sink is not just about fried chicken. It's a hidden gem that offers a delightful array of culinary delights. But let's get to the mouthwatering fried chicken that I'm sure you're craving for.

The Sink truly exceeded my expectations when it came to their fried chicken tenders. Perfectly seasoned, the crispy breading provides a delightful crunch while revealing juicy and tender meat with each bite. I couldn't help but savor every morsel of this delectable delight.

The portion size at The Sink is truly a sight to behold. With each order of their fried chicken tenders, you'll find that the serving is generous, leaving you fully satisfied and with enough leftovers for a second meal.

What impressed me the most was the cool and inviting atmosphere of The Sink. It's a place where you can enjoy your fried chicken in a laid-back and enjoyable ambiance. The quirky decor and friendly staff add to the overall experience.

Now, I know this article is about fried chicken, but I have to mention something else that caught my attention at The Sink. Their pizza is crazy good! So if you're in the mood for some pizza along with your fried chicken, you won't be disappointed.

In conclusion, The Sink not only serves some of the best fried chicken tenders in Boulder but also offers a cool atmosphere, huge portions, and even delicious pizzas. It's a place worth visiting whether you're a fried chicken aficionado or simply looking for a memorable dining experience.

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The Hungry Toad

Highlights
Cozy atmosphere
Friendly staff
Good food

Let me start by saying that The Hungry Toad has a cozy atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. As soon as you walk in, you can't help but fall in love with the warm, rustic decor and the inviting aroma that fills the air.

The staff at The Hungry Toad are incredibly friendly. From the moment I stepped through the door, I felt like I was visiting an old friend's house. They greeted me with genuine smiles and made sure I was comfortable throughout my entire visit.

Now, let's get to the most important part - the food. The Hungry Toad definitely knows how to make some seriously good fried chicken. The batter is perfectly crispy, giving the chicken a satisfying crunch with every bite. But what sets it apart is the juicy tenderness of the meat inside. It’s clear that they use high-quality chicken, cooked to perfection.

To complement their fantastic fried chicken, The Hungry Toad offers a variety of delicious side dishes. I highly recommend trying their creamy mashed potatoes and southern-style coleslaw. The perfectly seasoned potatoes are so smooth and velvety, while the tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

In conclusion, The Hungry Toad is a hidden gem when it comes to fried chicken in Boulder. The combination of the cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and remarkable flavors makes it a must-visit for any fried chicken enthusiast. Don't miss out on this mouthwatering experience!

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Spruce Farm & Fish

Highlights
Excellent brunch
Flavors excellent
Bacon was juicy
Mango French Toast
Great atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Spruce Farm & Fish offers an exceptional brunch experience that will satisfy even the most discerning fried chicken enthusiasts. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a fantastic atmosphere that perfectly blends elegance with a laid-back vibe.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - their fried chicken. Oh boy, the flavors were absolutely excellent. Each bite was a tantalizing explosion of perfectly seasoned and crispy goodness. The chicken itself was tender and moist, while the coating had just the right amount of crunch. It was clear that the chefs at Spruce Farm & Fish know their way around a fryer.

But the surprises didn't end there. Picture this: mango French toast. Yes, you read that correctly. It was a stroke of genius that took brunch to a whole new level. The combination of the sweet and tangy mango with the decadent French toast was a match made in culinary heaven.

I must also commend Spruce Farm & Fish for their attention to detail. Even the bacon accompanying the fried chicken was a standout. It was juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fried chicken in Boulder, look no further than Spruce Farm & Fish. Their excellent brunch, flavorful chicken, and delightful surprises like mango French toast make it a must-visit spot for any fried chicken aficionado.

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The Local

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Knowledgeable staff
Reasonable price point
Delicious food
Exceptional service

Let me start by saying that The Local truly lives up to its name. Nestled in the heart of Boulder, this charming restaurant offers a great atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. From the moment I walked in, I felt a warm and inviting energy that made me excited to try their fried chicken.

The staff at The Local are not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable about their menu. They took the time to explain each dish and made excellent recommendations for the best fried chicken options. Their passion for their craft was evident, and their enthusiasm only heightened my anticipation.

One of the things that immediately struck me about The Local was their reasonable price point. In a city where dining can sometimes be on the pricier side, it was refreshing to find a restaurant that offered high-quality fried chicken at such affordable prices.

But of course, the real star of the show was the delicious food. The fried chicken at The Local is simply outstanding. The crispy exterior encased tender and juicy meat, creating a harmonious contrast of textures and flavors. Each bite was a delightful experience that left me craving for more.

What truly set The Local apart, however, was their exceptional service. The waitstaff made sure that my dining experience was nothing short of perfection. They anticipated my needs and provided prompt and attentive service throughout the entire meal.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Boulder and craving the best fried chicken, make sure to visit The Local. With its great atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, reasonable price point, delicious food, and exceptional service, it is undoubtedly one of the top contenders for the best fried chicken in Boulder.

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Foolish Craig's Cafe

Highlights
Flawless service
Impressive crepes
Generous portions
Friendly staff
Top quality food

Let me start by saying that Foolish Craig's Cafe truly knows how to impress its patrons with their exceptional fried chicken. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and friendly staff that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the fried chicken. Oh boy, I must say, this is undoubtedly some of the finest fried chicken I've had the pleasure of sinking my teeth into. The chicken was fried to perfection, with a crispy and golden exterior that housed juicy and tender meat. Every bite was a flavorful explosion that left me craving for more.

What impressed me even more was the flawless service at Foolish Craig's Cafe. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and truly embodied the essence of hospitality. They made sure that my dining experience was top-notch from start to finish.

Apart from the exceptional fried chicken, Foolish Craig's Cafe also offers an array of other delights, including their impressive crepes. I must admit, I couldn't resist trying one, and let me tell you, it was a gastronomic adventure that I won't soon forget. The crepes were light, fluffy, and filled with delightful combinations of flavors.

Not only did Foolish Craig's Cafe excel in their food and service, but they also presented generous portions that left me fully satisfied. The quality and quantity of their dishes truly go hand in hand.

So, if you're in Boulder and on the hunt for the best fried chicken, Foolish Craig's Cafe is an absolute must-visit. Their flawless service,** impressive crepes**, and generous portions will leave you with a dining experience that is positively unforgettable.

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Fat Shack

Highlights
Amazing food
Excellent service
Huge portion sizes
Unique menu items
Friendly owner

I was blown away by the amazing food at Fat Shack. The fried chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Every bite was filled with flavor, leaving me craving for more. They definitely know how to take fried chicken to the next level.

The excellent service at Fat Shack made my dining experience even more enjoyable. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about their menu. They were happy to recommend their most popular dishes and answer any questions I had. It truly felt like they cared about providing a great dining experience.

One thing that stood out at Fat Shack was the huge portion sizes. It was no ordinary fried chicken meal – it was a feast! I was pleasantly surprised by the generous serving of crispy chicken, accompanied by a variety of delicious sides. This place definitely knows how to satisfy a hungry appetite.

What sets Fat Shack apart from other fried chicken joints in Boulder is their unique menu items. They offer a creative twist to traditional fried chicken by allowing customers to customize their orders with different sauces and toppings. The endless combinations make for a fun and adventurous dining experience.

Lastly, the friendly owner of Fat Shack adds a personal touch to the restaurant. He takes the time to engage with customers, ensuring that everyone feels welcome. His passion for creating mouthwatering fried chicken is evident, and it truly shines through in the quality of food served.

In conclusion, Fat Shack is a must-visit for fried chicken enthusiasts in Boulder. From the amazing food to the excellent service, this place has it all. Their huge portion sizes and unique menu offerings make for a memorable dining experience. With a friendly owner who truly cares about his customers, Fat Shack is the go-to spot for the best fried chicken in town.

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Chicken on the Hill

Highlights
Chill atmosphere
Tasty sandwiches
Packed with college students
Great music
Friendly staff

Let me start by saying that Chicken on the Hill exudes a chill atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying some finger-lickin' good fried chicken. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff, which instantly made me feel at home.

One of the highlights of Chicken on the Hill is their tasty sandwiches. They offer a variety of options, from classic buttermilk chicken sandwiches to innovative creations like their spicy honey sriracha chicken sandwich. Each bite was a flavor explosion, and I couldn't help but savor every moment.

As I looked around, I noticed that the place was packed with college students. And it's no wonder why! The combo of delicious food and great music creates the perfect hangout spot for those looking to fuel up during their study breaks.

The star of the show, of course, is their fried chicken. It was crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Each bite was a burst of savory delight that left me craving more.

Overall, my experience at Chicken on the Hill was nothing short of amazing. The combination of a chill atmosphere, tasty sandwiches, a bustling college crowd, great music, and a friendly staff made it a standout in my search for the best fried chicken in Boulder. If you're in the area, don't miss out on this fried chicken haven.

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Birdcall

Highlights
Highly recommend
Amazing and fresh
Awesome service
Best chicken sandwiches
Excellent customer service

Birdcall is a true gem when it comes to finding the best fried chicken in Boulder. From the moment I stepped foot into the vibrant and modern restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat.

The highlights of my visit were simply too numerous to ignore. First and foremost, I highly recommend Birdcall to anyone searching for an unforgettable fried chicken experience. The chicken itself was amazing and fresh, with a perfectly crispy exterior that gave way to succulent and tender meat.

What truly set Birdcall apart, however, was the awesome service. The staff was friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about their craft. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and provide recommendations. Their expertise truly enhanced my dining experience.

One aspect that stood out to me was the variety of chicken sandwiches on the menu. Each one was thoughtfully crafted and bursting with flavor. The combinations of ingredients were both unique and harmonious, creating a symphony of tastes with every bite. It was an absolute delight to explore the menu and indulge in these mouthwatering creations.

Moreover, I must mention the excellent customer service. The staff at Birdcall went above and beyond to ensure that each guest felt valued and taken care of. Their attention to detail and genuine warmth made me feel like I was part of the Birdcall family.

If you're on the hunt for the best fried chicken in Boulder, do yourself a favor and give Birdcall a try. You won't be disappointed.

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TenderFix by Noah Schnapp

TenderFix by Noah Schnapp in Boulder is truly a finger-licking delight! With a playful twist on classic southern fried chicken, this place knows how to satisfy cravings. Each bite of their crispy yet tender chicken is a taste bud sensation. The seasoning is a well-guarded secret, resulting in a flavor explosion that is both savory and addictive. The menu boasts a variety of options, from traditional to bold and daring flavors. The friendly staff adds to the overall experience and the cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family. TenderFix by Noah Schnapp definitely deserves a top spot on the list of the best fried chickens in Boulder.

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Peckish

Highlights
Best wings in Boulder
Cozy establishment
Top-notch sauces
Wide variety of sauces
Great student special

Let me start by saying, if you're in search of the best wings in Boulder, look no further than Peckish. This cozy establishment is a hidden gem when it comes to fried chicken.

One of the highlights of my visit was the wide variety of top-notch sauces they offer. From classic buffalo to tangy BBQ, there's something for every palate. The sauces were so good, it was hard to choose just one!

The wings themselves were simply outstanding. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly seasoned. Every bite was a delight. I could practically hear the crunch as I indulged.

The atmosphere at Peckish is inviting and cozy, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some finger-licking good chicken. Whether you're dining in or taking out, the staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring you have the best experience possible.

I also have to mention their student special, which is a great deal for those on a budget. It's a fantastic option for students looking to satisfy their fried chicken cravings without breaking the bank.

Overall, Peckish is a must-visit for any fried chicken enthusiast in Boulder. With its exceptional wings, delightful sauces, and cozy ambiance, it truly stands out among the crowd. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

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Rae's & Kay's Authentic Puerto Rican and Soul Food

Highlights
Crispy and magnificent taste
Amazing Pastelillos
Yum! Yum! Yum!
Home and handmade food

Rae's & Kay's Authentic Puerto Rican and Soul Food is a haven for fried chicken lovers in Boulder. As I walked into the cozy restaurant, I could immediately smell the tantalizing aroma of their crispy, golden fried chicken. My taste buds were already tingling with anticipation.

I started my fried chicken extravaganza with their signature dish. One bite into the perfectly seasoned, crispy chicken skin, and I knew I had found something special. The meat was incredibly tender and juicy, balancing the satisfying crunch with each mouthwatering bite. It was the kind of fried chicken that made you close your eyes and savor every moment.

One of the highlights of Rae's & Kay's was undoubtedly their amazing Pastelillos. These traditional Puerto Rican turnovers were bursting with flavor. The flaky pastry enveloped a delightful filling of seasoned chicken that was rich in spices and aromatic herbs. Each bite transported me to the sunny beaches of Puerto Rico, leaving me craving more.

The passion and love that went into crafting the food at Rae's & Kay's was evident in every bite. From the perfectly seasoned breading to the homemade sides that accompanied the chicken, it was a true testament to the authenticity of their cuisine.

In conclusion, Rae's & Kay's Authentic Puerto Rican and Soul Food is a must-visit for any fried chicken enthusiast in Boulder. The crispy and magnificent taste of their fried chicken, combined with their incredible Pastelillos and homemade dishes, creates a culinary experience that will leave you saying "yum, yum, yum!"

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Wendy's

Highlights
Exceptional Customer Service
Delicious Food
Beautiful Outdoor Seating
Fast and Efficient Service
Perfectly Made Breakfast Combo

From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with exceptional customer service, setting the tone for what turned out to be a delightful dining experience.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the wide range of tempting options. However, I was there for one thing - the fried chicken. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The chicken was crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. It was evident that a great deal of skill and care went into preparing this dish.

What truly impressed me about Wendy's in Boulder was the beautiful outdoor seating area. Situated amidst lush greenery, it provided a serene and pleasant environment to enjoy my meal. It was a perfect setting for indulging in mouthwatering fried chicken.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was fast and efficient. The friendly staff swiftly took my order and brought my food promptly, ensuring that my dining experience was a seamless one.

If you're looking for a memorable breakfast combo, let me recommend their perfectly made breakfast combo. It was an explosion of delicious flavors that left me craving for more.

In conclusion, Wendy's in Boulder surpassed my expectations. With its exceptional customer service, delicious food, beautiful outdoor seating, and fast and efficient service, it truly deserves a spot on the list of the best fried chicken spots in Boulder. Don't miss out on this gem!

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Burger King

Highlights
Homey atmosphere
Generous Burger King
Fresh and delicious food
Nailed it

Let me start by saying that Burger King truly nailed it when it comes to their fried chicken. As I stepped into the restaurant, I was immediately greeted by a warm and homey atmosphere that made me feel right at ease.

When it comes to generous portions, Burger King is king. They serve up some seriously hefty pieces of chicken that left me feeling more than satisfied. The freshness of the food was undeniable, as each bite delivered a burst of flavor that left my taste buds dancing with delight.

But what sets Burger King apart from the rest is their dedication to providing delicious food. The chicken was perfectly seasoned and had a crispy exterior that added a delightful crunch to every bite. It was clear that Burger King puts time and effort into ensuring that their fried chicken is of the highest quality.

Overall, my experience at Burger King in Boulder was nothing short of delightful. From the moment I walked in to the very last bite, I was impressed by the homey atmosphere, generous portions, and most importantly, the fresh and delicious fried chicken that Burger King has to offer. If you're searching for the best fried chicken in Boulder, this is definitely a place worth checking out.

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IHOP

Highlights
Friendly staff
Good prices and portions
Quick service
Indoor and outdoor seating
Surprisingly good crepes

First and foremost, I was delighted by the warm and inviting atmosphere at IHOP. The friendly staff immediately made me feel welcome, adding a touch of charm to the dining experience.

When it comes to the best fried chicken in Boulder, one cannot underestimate the importance of prices and portions. IHOP hits the mark in this regard, offering generous servings at incredibly good prices. It's a great spot for those seeking a filling meal without breaking the bank.

Time is of the essence, especially when craving some delicious fried chicken. IHOP impressed me with their quick service. The waitstaff was attentive and efficient, ensuring that our order arrived promptly. It was a pleasure not having to spend an eternity waiting for my food.

IHOP caters to both indoor and outdoor enthusiasts with their indoor and outdoor seating options. Whether you prefer a cozy indoor environment or a scenic outdoor view, IHOP has got you covered.

Finally, and quite unexpectedly, IHOP also surprised me with their surprisingly good crepes. While my primary intention was to indulge in the best fried chicken in Boulder, I couldn't resist trying out their crepes. The combination of the crispy chicken and the delicate crepes made for an unexpectedly delightful combination.

In conclusion, while IHOP may not be exclusively known for its fried chicken, it certainly impressed me with its friendly staff, good prices and portions, quick service, indoor and outdoor seating options, and even their surprisingly good crepes. It's a noteworthy contender in the search for the best fried chicken in Boulder.