The chicken sandwich is singlehandedly one of the greatest sandwich creations to ever come out of the US. While it might sound like a bold statement, there is a long list of fast-food restaurant chains that would back up that claim. It's something that people crave after a long night out or a bad day at work, it's a sandwich that's always good with some slightly greasy fries and a coke, and, in some states, it's practically a staple of the cuisine.
What makes fast-food chicken sandwiches so delicious, aside from their incredibly affordable price, is the fact that just like those greasy, salty fries, a chicken patty straight out of the fryer is as good as gold in terms of comfort food. With so many options, the choice one must make on where to purchase one from might seem daunting. Never fear, dear chicken lovers: As always, we've got a list detailing the best options for your chicken sandwich-craving stomach.
Overall Winner: Popeye's
It comes as no surprise that Popeye's original chicken sandwich has easily slid into first place in terms of what should constitute a good, solid chicken sandwich. Sitting perfectly perched between two airy buns is a fried chicken patty that exudes flavors specific to Popeye's signature recipe.
The sandwich itself is perfectly balanced between the crunch of the crispy chicken coating and its tender interior. Some might question how it is that Popeye's can get their chicken sandwiches so well-balanced and flavorful but fans know the truth: Magic.
Runner-Up: Chik-fil-A
While Chik-fil-A didn't get the top spot, the chain's spicy chicken sandwich is still one of the best. For those who can handle the heat, this sandwich has everything needed to be instantly crave-worthy. From a thrilling blend of spices to the crispy exterior thanks to the method of hand-breading, there's nothing not to love about this sandwich.
The unique thing about this sandwich is that it's cooked with a pressure cooker, adding an extra level of crispness while keeping all of that good, juicy moisture inside. For those who don't like the spice level, the original chicken sandwich is just as tasty.
Best Non-Chicken Chain: McDonald's
Some people might be surprised to hear that McDonald's has one of the top three fast-food chicken sandwiches but those who have tried it know it's practically legendary.
The chain's buttermilk crispy chicken sandwich came as a surprise to many who didn't expect such a delicious chicken option from a chain that specializes and has effectively grown an empire in its burgers. The proof is in the details here: It's the sandwich's artisan touches that make it feel far hearty, packed with flavor, and elegant.
Best Bang For Your Buck: Carl's Jr.
It might sound strange to reward this sandwich with the best bang for a customer's buck considering the price tag is just over six bucks, but this sandwich's size alone makes the price worth it. The flavor of this giant sandwich is fantastic and part of that is due to the herb-filled seasoning that's used in its breading.
A generous slathering of mayo tops off this already delicious sandwich, adding a bit of creaminess and tang to its flavor and texture profiles. The big fillet chicken sandwich lives up to its name and customers will not be disappointed shelling out $6.89 to get this for lunch or dinner.
Best Dressed Up: Wendy's
Wendy's pushed the envelope of chicken sandwiches with their addition of the pretzel bun. When this salty, savory bun first appeared with a burger, the world was in awe. And then, Wendy's applied the same bun to a tender, crispy chicken patty and loaded it up with everything one could love about condiments:
A flavorful beer cheese sauce, applewood smoked bacon, crispy fried onions, and smoky honey mustard to boot. The pretzel bun gives this sandwich a tasty start and every condiment offers a burst of flavor all the way down to its tender, juicy chicken center.
Best Loaded: KFC
KFC may not have the top spot when it comes to chicken sandwiches but that doesn't mean the chain doesn't offer any delicious options. The crispy colonel sandwich has a piece of KFC's trademark fried chicken (which is quite a generous portion, for those wondering) along with mayo and pickles, all piled atop two squishy, soft buns.
The seasoning is exactly what you'd expect from KFC and the sandwich itself is greasy in the best way, but it's the individual crispy chicken ridges along the chicken patty that make it truly worth savoring.