Los Angeles, the city of angels, is also a city of amazing chicken tenders. Forget the bland, rubbery strips you might find elsewhere – LA's culinary scene boasts a diverse and delicious range of chicken tender options, catering to every taste and craving. This comprehensive guide dives deep into 30 of the best spots to satisfy your chicken tender obsession, categorized for your convenience. Get ready for a crispy, juicy adventure!
The Top 10: Crispy Classics & Hidden Gems
These are the places that consistently deliver on quality, flavor, and overall experience. They represent the best of the best in LA's chicken tender landscape.
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The Bird Haus: Known for its incredibly crispy breading and juicy chicken, The Bird Haus offers a variety of sauces to complement their tenders. Their unique spice blends set them apart. Don't miss their seasonal specials!
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Crack Shack: While known for their rotisserie chicken, Crack Shack’s chicken tenders are a hidden gem. The quality of the chicken is undeniable, and the accompanying sides elevate the entire meal. Expect a wait, but it's worth it.
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Honey's Kettle: A LA institution, Honey's Kettle serves up classic, comfort-food style chicken tenders. Their secret lies in a perfectly balanced breading and a long-standing recipe that keeps customers coming back for more.
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Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken: A little bit of the South in LA, Gus's delivers on its name. Their extra crispy, incredibly flavorful tenders are a must-try for any chicken lover. Their spicy options are particularly noteworthy.
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Howlin' Ray's: While primarily known for their Nashville hot chicken, Howlin' Ray's also offers a killer chicken tender option. If you can handle the heat, this is a fiery, delicious experience.
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Puesto: This upscale Mexican restaurant might surprise you with its exceptional chicken tenders. They offer a unique twist on the classic, incorporating Latin American flavors and spices.
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Father's Office: This gastropub elevates the humble chicken tender with gourmet ingredients and creative sauces. Their tender selection changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest ingredients.
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Yardbird Southern Table & Bar: Yardbird brings the taste of the Southern US to LA, and their chicken tenders are no exception. Expect perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust.
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Blue Plate Taco: A local favorite known for creative and delicious tacos, Blue Plate Taco's chicken tenders are a surprisingly great off-menu item. Ask your server – you won't regret it.
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Republique: This high-end restaurant offers a sophisticated take on chicken tenders, utilizing premium ingredients and inventive preparations. A luxurious chicken tender experience.
The Next 10: Unique Flavors & Creative Twists
These spots take the classic chicken tender and elevate it with unique flavors, sauces, and preparations.
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Monty's Good Burger: A playful take on the classic burger joint, Monty's offers fun and flavorful chicken tenders.
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Pink's Hot Dogs: Yes, Pink's! While famed for their hot dogs, their chicken tenders are a delicious surprise.
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Grand Central Market: This vibrant food hall offers numerous options, including several vendors serving excellent chicken tenders.
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In-N-Out Burger: While not primarily a chicken tender establishment, In-N-Out's protein style chicken tenders are a popular secret menu item.
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Umami Burger: This gourmet burger chain offers chicken tenders as a side, showcasing their commitment to high-quality ingredients.
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Angel City Brewery: While known for its craft beers, Angel City Brewery also serves up solid chicken tenders.
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The Luggage Room Pizzeria: An unexpected gem, their chicken tenders are a welcome addition to their diverse menu.
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The Original Farmers Market: Another excellent option within a food hall setting, offering a wide variety of chicken tenders.
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Leo's Tacos Truck: Known for tacos, but their chicken tenders are worth trying if you find yourself near one of their trucks.
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Philippe The Original: A legendary LA institution, their chicken tenders offer a classic diner vibe and experience.
The Final 10: Casual Bites & Quick Eats
Perfect for grabbing a quick and delicious meal on the go.
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Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers: A fast-food chain specializing in chicken fingers, Raising Cane's offers a consistent and reliable experience.
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Chick-fil-A: Another fast-food giant, Chick-fil-A is a popular choice for its consistently good chicken sandwiches and tenders.
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KFC: A classic fast food option, KFC provides a familiar taste and experience with their chicken tenders.
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Popeyes: Known for its spicy chicken, Popeyes' chicken tenders are a worthy competitor in the fast-food arena.
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Church's Chicken: Similar to KFC and Popeyes, Church's provides a quick and tasty chicken tender option.
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El Pollo Loco: While primarily a rotisserie chicken restaurant, El Pollo Loco also offers delicious chicken tenders.
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Willie G's: A local favorite, Willie G's serves up simple, yet satisfying chicken tenders.
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Bawarchi Biryanis: Offering a surprising take on chicken tenders, their unique spices make for a distinctive experience.
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The Habit Burger Grill: Another burger chain offering surprisingly good chicken tenders.
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Del Taco: A quick and affordable option for a casual chicken tender meal.
Choosing Your Chicken Tender Adventure
This list offers a diverse range of options, from upscale dining experiences to quick casual bites. Consider your budget, desired atmosphere, and preferred flavors when making your selection. No matter your choice, you're sure to find a delicious chicken tender experience in Los Angeles. Happy eating!
