NEW JERSEY - New Jersey, the "Garden State," is known for its diverse culinary scene, from boardwalk staples to international flavors. In recent years, Nashville-style hot chicken has taken the state by storm, offering a fiery fusion of crispy fried chicken and fiery spice levels. This guide explores some of the top spots across the state to find your perfect hot chicken fix, categorized by region.
North Jersey:
Parsippany-Troy Hills: Birdies Hot Chicken boasts a 4.6-star rating and enthusiastic customer reviews praising it as "the best hot chicken for sure!"
Montclair: Good Chicken, known for its Korean-style fried chicken, receives rave reviews for being "the best Korean fried chicken I've ever had." Rooster's Nashville Hot Chicken is another Montclair option, lauded for having "probably the best chicken I ever had in my life!"
Hackensack: Fluffies Hot Chicken lives up to its name with its fluffy, crispy chicken, earning a 4.7-star rating and comments like "easily one of the best hot chicken spots around."
Jersey City: The House of Hot Chicken offers a contender for "one of the best hot chicken sandwiches I've ever had!" while Chicken Delight provides a classic fried chicken experience. However, it's important to note that opening hours may vary, so check before heading out.
Highland Park: Ara's Hot Chicken is often cited as "BY FAR THE BEST HOT CHICKEN EVER," particularly for those seeking halal options.
Central Jersey:
Paramus: HCK Hot Chicken offers a solid hot chicken experience with a 4.2-star rating, while bb.q Chicken H-Mart provides another Korean-style fried chicken option, particularly praised for its "hot & spicy chicken."
Somerset: Galore Fried Chicken & Pizza is a hidden gem, receiving praise for having "the best fried chicken" alongside its pizzas.
South Jersey:
Hammonton: Henri's Hotts Barbeque, while not strictly a hot chicken spot, is included for its highly-rated (4.7 stars) fried chicken, often called "the best fried chicken in New Jersey."
Cherry Hill: Simply Fowl offers a slightly milder option with its "slightly spicy buffalo sauce" alongside its fried chicken.
Haddon Township & Burlington: Crown Fried Chicken, located in both towns, provides a classic fast-food fried chicken experience, with some customers claiming it to be "the best chicken."
Newark: Jersey Fried Chicken offers a budget-friendly option, while Cayenne Nashville Hot Chicken has two locations, one in Newark and another in Denville, offering takeout and delivery options.
Honorable Mention:
Dave's Hot Chicken, a popular national chain, recently opened its first New Jersey location in Ocean Township and is already receiving praise for its "best hot chicken sandwich around." With further expansion plans in the state, it will become a significant contender in the hot chicken scene.
New Jersey's hot chicken scene is diverse and ever-growing, offering options for all tastes and spice preferences. From classic Nashville-style to Korean-inspired flavors, a fiery bird is waiting to be devoured. So grab a napkin, embrace the heat, and embark on your hot chicken adventure in the Garden State!
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