It's that time of year where everyone seems to be going cluckin' crazy for National Fried Chicken Day, and Phoenix doesn't pull any punches when it comes to partaking in this crispy celebration. On July 6, locals can peck their way through a myriad of mouthwatering options that span the gamut from Southern comforts to Asian inspirations, all paying homage to the deep-fried delicacy that has become a global phenomenon. According to Phoenix New Times, Phoenix's food scene is fully geared up to serve up those tantalizing treats.
For those looking to sink their teeth into something local, Eat Up Drive In at 4001 E. Indian School Road is the spot to hit. They're dishing out their Main Chick and Hot Chick Sandwiches complete with mixed fries and a medium drink, all for $14 a pop. Meanwhile, bb.q Chicken on Chandler Blvd boasts a Korean fried chicken that's become internationally acclaimed for its remarkable flavor. Reports from Forbes suggest that we just might to need to appropriately adjust our definition of what barbecue stands for, if bb.q Chicken's Soy Garlic and Galbi Wings are anything to go by.
And let's not forget the Valley's own contribution to the fried chicken spiel. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, hailed as the Best of Phoenix 2025 winner of Best Fried Chicken by Phoenix New Times, continues to fan the flames of fried chicken fandom with its hand-battered, made-to-order platters. But for those on the move, Krispy Krunchy Chicken's $5.99 "Your Choice" meal deal might just be the ticket to satisfy those driving cravings.
But let's not box ourselves into the stereotypes of how we typically enjoy fried chicken. As Forbes pointed out, creativity is the spice of life, or in this case, the seasoning on the chicken. From Atomic Chicken Sandwiches loaded with crispy double-fried chicken at Seoul Bird in Las Vegas, to an inventive Peach Fried Chicken & Sweet’s Potato Waffle in Georgia, it's clear that chefs across the nation are pushing boundaries harder than a sumo wrestler in a ring. And with innovation on the forefront, The Phoenician Tavern's Tokyo Crispy Chicken Sandwich is certainly worth wrapping your mitts around for a Japanese twist on an American classic.
So whether it's a brunch special with fried chicken and waffles or an adventurous plate of Moroccan Fried Chicken, there's a palpable buzz of culinary excitement. National Fried Chicken Day is not just a day for Phoenix to strut its stuff, but also for eateries everywhere to showcase their takes on this beloved dish. After all, whether it's served with a side of bubbles at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess or eaten right off the paper plate at your neighborhood joint, fried chicken has a way of bringing people together—one crunchy bite at a time.
