6 Pennsylvania Fried Chicken Spots Worth Hitting The Road For
Pennsylvania might not be the first state that comes to mind for fried chicken, but hidden across the Keystone State are some seriously mouthwatering poultry destinations.
Philadelphia’s urban favorites sit alongside small-town gems with decades of history, turning humble chicken into an art form. Grab your napkins and prepare for a delicious road trip across Pennsylvania’s best fried chicken establishments.
1. Love & Honey Fried Chicken – Philadelphia
Picture biting into chicken so perfectly balanced between sweet and savory that your taste buds dance with joy. That’s the magic happening at Northern Liberties’ beloved spot.
What makes this place special is their signature honey-infused breading that creates an irresistible crunch while keeping the meat incredibly juicy. Locals line up daily for their famous OG Chicken Sandwich with spicy slaw.
2. Soul Food Connection – Pittsburgh
Grandma’s recipes come alive at this Pittsburgh treasure where fried chicken transports you straight to Sunday family dinners of yesteryear.
Each piece emerges from the kitchen wearing a golden-brown coat that shatters satisfyingly between your teeth. Seasoned with a secret blend passed down through generations, the chicken pairs perfectly with classic sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.
3. Isabelle’s Southern Cuisine – Harrisburg
Morning cravings meet their match at Isabelle’s where brunch reaches heavenly heights through their chicken and waffle combination.
Who knew the capital city harbored such Southern comfort? The contrast between crispy, well-seasoned chicken and fluffy buttermilk waffles creates a textural wonderland. Drizzle everything with maple syrup and hot sauce for the ultimate sweet-heat experience that locals can’t resist.
4. Grandma Stamm’s – Carlisle
Half a century of crispy, golden goodness has made this Carlisle institution legendary among Pennsylvania chicken connoisseurs.
While ownership may have changed hands, the recipes remain gloriously intact. Beyond just chicken, visitors now enjoy an unexpected twist: browsing books or catching live music while savoring juicy drumsticks and thighs. Old-timers swear the chicken tastes exactly as it did decades ago.
5. Federal Donuts – Philadelphia
Sweet meets savory in a culinary marriage that shouldn’t work but absolutely does at this Philadelphia phenomenon.
Master fryers employ a twice-fried technique resulting in chicken with shatteringly crisp skin hiding impossibly tender meat inside. Adventurous eaters should grab a honey donut for dessert: or better yet, alternate bites between chicken and donut for a flavor combination that’s uniquely Philadelphian.
6. Mohan’s Restaurant – Penn Hills
Accidental chicken fame struck when this establishment needed food to meet liquor license requirements; now they’re chicken legends!
Producing over 150,000 pounds annually, Mohan’s has perfected their technique through sheer volume. Locals whisper about the marinade that gives each piece its distinctive flavor profile.
First-timers often become regulars after experiencing the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness that keeps Pittsburgh coming back for decades.
