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 the American South, California, and Asian countries like Korea and Japan. 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. Find my favorite bone-in Los Angeles fried chicken options since 2021. Legs, thighs, wings or bust.

UPDATES SINCE AUGUST 5, 2024
Additions: Alta Adams, Lucky Bird, SIS Cafe Asian Fusion
Subtractions: Birdie G’s (CLOSED), Tokyo Fried Chicken (CLOSED), Willie Mae’s (CLOSED)

Alta Adams Fried Chicken – West Adams ↓

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 – Gardena ↓

Howlin’ Ray’s – Chinatown + Pasadena ↓

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

Lucky Bird Fried Chicken @ Grand Central Market – DTLA ↓

Ramen Nagi Chicken Karaage – Arcadia + Century City ↓

RYLA Nashville Spiced Hot Chicken Karaage – Redondo Beach ↓

SIS Cafe Asian Fusion Hot Spicy Fried Chicken – Boyle Heights ↓