Fried chicken might just be the country’s most diverse hands-on meal – it makes just as much sense at breakfast with waffles as it does at grandma’s Sunday potlucks. But Idaho isn’t known for being a state where you tuck your napkin into your shirt, dive into a face full of crispy chicken, or down a gallon of sweet tea. No, ma’am.
Here in Idaho, we put our own spin on chicken that is nothing short of marvelous, delicious, and finger-lickin’ scrumptious. These restaurants – listed in no particular order – are just a few places to grab some fried chicken that isn’t your ordinary Kentucky fried variety:
There's something incredible about a restaurant that specializes not only in fluffy, fresh-baked biscuits, but in pizza as well. While this delicious rustic-industrial gem specializes in breakfast-style biscuit sandwiches, one hearty beauty blurs the line between meals: the Fried Chicken Biscuit. Topped with crispy bacon, cheese, and a fried egg (gravy optional), this is one mighty powerful breakfast sando.
For a killer fried chicken dish, the Knotty Pine knows how to serve up something special to go along with their gorgeous setting and Teton views: Chicken-N-Waffles with creamy southern gravy and a spicy maple syrup drizzle.
If you make it to brunch at this downtown favorite, let out your belt and try the Fried Chicken in a Biscuit. The fried chicken is thick cut and juicy, yet crisp, and the sausage gravy thick and flavorful. Both of which arrive on a saucy bun of perfection. Yum!
If traditional fried chicken and waffles is a little too old school for you, Saint Lawrence's Fried Quails and Waffles should do the trick! Battered and served on a hot cornbread waffle, it's a dish that's easy to fall in love with.
Chicken Fried Steak and Chicken Fried Chicken are both breakfast classics, but one of Eagle's most delicious hidden gems is has taken this diner favorite and kicked it up a notch: the Spicy Chicken Fried Chicken. This baby packs some serious kick and is served with a sweet sugar biscuit, chorizo sausage gravy, and an egg. Your tastebuds will thank you.
Rated as the best fried chicken by multiple national travel sites, the Fork's Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Cheddar Waffles are absolutely divine. The robust cheesy waffles balance perfectly with the orange and local honey-butter and warm balsamic-infused maple syrup to create a dish that is as creatively inspired as it is delicious. But... you can only get these bad boys on Tuesdays.
For chicken-lovers who have an insatiable craving for saucy perfection, welcome to the Wingz Twist. Melty, saucy, and awesome, this incredible creation features Provolone, Blue cheese, and Pepperjack, melted over just the right balance of fried chicken and buffalo sauce, then topped with a cool celery-ranch slaw. Just take a minute to let those delicious flavor combos wash over you.
Address: 1735 W Kathleen Ave. Ste #3. Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
Forget the leaning tower of Pisa. How about a scrumptious tower of chicken and waffles? The Rockafella Ya'll is a beast of a sandwich... not that you'll be taking a massive bite out of it any time soon. This whopping tower has layer upon layer of delicious, gourmet-inspired flavors: green onion belgian waffles, buttermilk fried chicken, black pepper bacon, whipped cream, fried eggs, and huckleberry sauce, all served with house-made blueberry, fennel seed, & black pepper syrup. WOW.
Maybe you have a craving for fried chicken without the mess. Maybe something Italian or Mediterranean-inspired sounds like it would hit the spot. If so, Trinity's Bruschetta Chicken Sandwich is a fresh, creative option that does without the heavy sauces. Instead, Parmesan-crusted chicken breast and melted fresh mozzarella with house made Bruschetta is served on a savory pepper and Parmesan bun. It's the perfect way to enjoy "fried" chicken in a beach-worthy disguise!
For a slightly more traditional and adult-ified version of this favorite crispy-fried food, the Double Fried Chicken Wings at the Cellar are tossed in a Vietnamese caramel sauce with chopped lime and fried garlic -- an exceptionally delicious combination that has the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
Address: 317 E Sherman Ave. Coeur D Alene, ID 83814
More chicken and waffles? Oh, yes! This spicy, locally-sourced creation is full of tender, juicy goodness: crispy fried chicken breast served on top of cheddar bacon waffles, all topped with fiery maple syrup and pickles.
Address: 124 S 2nd Ave. Sandpoint, ID 83864
Control that drool, now. There’s plenty for everyone! Where’s your favorite place to grab a fantastic chicken dish?