From gas stations to grocery stores, Charlotte has plenty of fried chicken dining options
Even when it’s not National Fried Chicken Day (July 6, if you’re keeping track!), there’s always time to celebrate (and devour) one of America’s favorite foods.
July 6 is also the 45th anniversary of the first Bojangles opening in Charlotte, according to the N.C. Museum of History.
While the chicken at Bojangles and many other restaurants are popular, there are more places to get the southern staple in the Queen City to take home.
If you’re in the mood for some deep-fried deliciousness, here are some grocery stores, gas stations and food trucks you can sample in Charlotte.
Charlotte-area grocery stores offer quick and easy options
Many Charlotte grocery stores sell their own brands of fried chicken.
The fried chicken at Publix is made fresh in the deli every day, and is double hand-breaded, according to the store’s website. An eight-piece box of mixed fried chicken can be purchased at Charlotte-area stores for $10, or you can order up to 200 pieces for your next family gathering.
You can also get a bucket of freshly-made double-dipped fried chicken at Harris Teeter or an eight-piece bag of fried chicken at Food Lion for $7.99.
You can purchase chicken meals and fuel at these gas stations
A few gas stations that sell fried chicken in Charlotte, but one stands out among the rest.
The chicken at Quik Shoppe was called “the best damn fried chicken in Charlotte” by Erin Breeden, a reporter for Thrillist. With regular and spicy options, and home-cooked sides like macaroni, green beans, slaw and banana pudding, you won’t leave disappointed.
There are three Quik Shoppe locations in Charlotte, at 5600 Brookshire Blvd., 201 E. Blvd. and 1500 Eastway Dr.
In north Charlotte, you’ll find Krispy Krunchy Chicken at the Shell gas station at 13720 Mallard Creek Rd. The menu includes fried chicken described as a “Cajun-infused symphony of flavor,” on the restaurant’s website, along with fries, mac and cheese, and jambalaya.
Several food trucks provide home-cooked goodness
Some of the food trucks that make frequent appearances at breweries in the Charlotte area serve the best fried chicken. Here are a few of them, and what they offer:
Sandra Lee’s Country Kitchen: Golden fried chicken seasoned to perfection ($12)
Chef Lee’s Seafood & Chicken: Southern fried chicken tenders served with a choice of side ($12)
C&J Food: Four whole wings seasoned and fried to perfection served with fries ($13.50)
Maria’s Charlotte: Fried chicken tenders with a side of ranch, BBQ or honey mustard ($3.99-$9.99)
This story was originally published July 6, 2022 at 5:26 PM.
