Everyone loves a Top 5 list, and I’m no exception. That’s why I’ve partnered with Edmonton Tourism to create the following list of the Top 5 Fried Chicken dishes in Edmonton, so you’ll never be caught without a great fried chicken recommendation again.
*This list is mostly compiled from notes gathered during my Edmonton Fried Chicken Crawl, the full details of which you can read here. My number 3 pick was added after the blind taste tests were completed.
North 53– 10240 124 st.
For my money, North 53 has the best fried chicken in town, hands down. It’s deliciously salty, packed with flavour and a nice creeping background heat that keeps you wanting more. The catch here is that you can only get it on the late-night eats menu, on Friday and Saturday nights, from 11:15 pm – 2 am. Not to worry though if you can’t keep the eyelids open that late – there’s also a very different, yet equally delicious, popcorn chicken on the regular menu.
It’ Dog– 8621 109 st
If you like your chicken to bring the heat, then It’ Dog might just be the place for you. It’s got a nice, crispy coating, and a moderately aggressive spiciness that’ll warm you up but don’t worry, it’s not “sweat-through-your shirt” hot, so most people should be ok with it.
Packrat Louie – 10335 83 ave
The Nashville Hot Chicken at Packrat Louie didn’t pack the punch of heat I was expecting based on its name but, even without it, it’s a very solid fried chicken in its own right. There’s plenty of salt, and a great crunchiness, plus it’s served with a delicious bacon creamed corn that almost steals the show.
Meat for Dinner– 8216-104 st.
The fried chicken at Meat actually outshines the bbq and, to me, is easily the best thing on the menu. The meat is moist and flavourful, and the coating hits all the right crispy and salty notes. Since it’s a mere 1/2 block from Packrat Louie, Old Strathcona is the ideal location for tasting both back to back and deciding on a favourite for yourself.
Coco Deep Fried Chicken– 3350 Parsons Rd.
At first glance, Coco Fried Chicken may look like a strip mall fast food chicken joint, and that’s because it is a strip mall, fast-food, fried chicken joint. Located a hefty drive south from the Edmonton’s core, it’s a great option for those on the south side who are craving a crispy fried chicken that won’t break the bank. As a bonus, you can get regular fried chicken, or make it Korean Fried Chicken by adding their signature sweet and spicy sauce.
Check out the Edmonton Tourism website, ExploreEdmonton.com, to find many more things to see and do in Edmonton.
Baconhound is an Edmonton, Alberta food blog, focusing on the best restaunts and dishes in Edmonton and beyond. Phil Wilson is also the host of Edmonton, Alberta based food podcast, Off Menu.
steverickettssp says
good sleuthing! what’s the next “top 5”? might i suggest a couple: chicken wings, pho, fish&chips
baconhound says
Thanks for leaving a comment, Steve. Great suggestions- I’ve got a few things on the radar, and this is just the first in a series I’m going to do for Edmonton Tourism. Fish and chips is definitely one that I’ve been thinking about.
elysechatt says
Sorry to say but you need to get on a plane for about 9 hours to find the best fish and chips!! Just saying!
baconhound says
Well I had some very good fish in Victoria last week, but I still haven’t had better chips than at my Aunt’s old chippy in Manchester.
Lisa says
uh this guy must have his taste buds up his ass …. COCOs is without a doubt the most disgusting chicken ever!!! We threw ours in the garbage after only one bite…
baconhound says
It actually tested well in a 4 person blind taste test, but feel free to add your own pick in the contentious #5 spot.
Lisa says
FYI.. if you want really great fish and chips go to back home fish and chips on 124st 104 ave… awesome….
Jet Lagged & Hungry (@jetlaggedhungry) says
I love that you did this; I have a HUGE soft spot for fried chicken! Will definitely check out your recommendations 😉
baconhound says
Thanks for reading!
Amanda says
Love me some fried chicken. And because I hate going places and am afraid to venture far from home…Fired Up on Argyll has some pretty decent fried chicken too.
There’s also this little place called KFC??? Not sure if you’ve heard of them….jk;D
Tamara says
I agree with Lisa. I thought I would try Coco’s and it was the worst fried chicken I’ve ever had. I also threw it away. I would of rather ate Mary Brown’s. Yuck, it was terrible!!!