Fried chicken is a global phenomenon. I’m a longtime believer in deep-fried birds, which are beautiful canvases for different batters, spices, marinades, and dreams. In my past life, I produced three fried chicken festivals featuring versions from creative L.A. chefs. Many of my current favorite Los Angeles fried chicken preparations span several continents. You won’t find any chicken tenders. Boneless white meat strips are not for me. Chicken breast is sometimes welcome in fried chicken sandwiches, though thigh meat often fares better. Dark meat has a higher fat content, better skin to meat ratio, and is always juicier and crispier. Chicken wings warrant another guide that I’ll eventually update. In the meantime, enjoy my favorite bone-in Los Angeles fried chicken options. Legs, thighs, wings or bust. Sadly, stupendous fried chicken is no longer available during Sundays at Asterid or the discontinued Damian brunch, but you’ll still eat well.

Birdie G’s Pickle Chicken – Santa Monica ↓

Cobi’s Fried Chicken (Brunch) – Santa Monica ↓

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Burbank, Long Beach + Mid-City ↓

Honey Dress Fried Chicken Soy Garlic Thigh & Leg – Garden + Torrance ↓

Howlin’ Ray’s – Chinatown + Pasadena ↓

Le Coupe Chili Honey Fried Chicken Bone-in Thigh – Melrose Hill ↓

Ramen Nagi Chicken Karaage – Arcadia + Century City ↓

RYLA Nashville Spiced Hot Chicken Karaage – Redondo Beach ↓

Tokyo Fried Chicken – Downtown ↓

Willie Mae’s Fried Chicken – Venice ↓