Chicago's culinary scene is vast and varied, but sometimes, you just crave the simple pleasure of perfectly cooked chicken tenders. Forget bland, dry disappointments; this guide dives deep into the Windy City's best spots for this beloved comfort food, highlighting everything from classic fried goodness to innovative takes on the dish. We've scoured the city to bring you the top 20 places to satisfy your chicken tender cravings. Get ready to embark on a crispy, juicy adventure!
Finding the Perfect Chicken Tender: What to Look For
Before we dive into our top 20, let's talk about what makes a truly great chicken tender. Several key factors contribute to the perfect bite:
- Breading: The breading should be perfectly crispy, with a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, juicy meat. Avoid overly greasy or soggy breading.
- Meat: The chicken itself must be juicy and flavorful, not dry or rubbery. High-quality chicken makes all the difference.
- Seasoning: A well-seasoned tender is a joy to eat. Look for places that use flavorful seasonings that complement the chicken without overpowering it.
- Sauce: The right dipping sauce can elevate a great chicken tender to the next level. Consider variety and quality when choosing your spot.
The Top 20 Chicken Tenders in Chicago: A Delicious Ranking
This list isn't ranked in any particular order; each location offers a unique and delicious chicken tender experience.
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The Purple Pig: While known for its Mediterranean tapas, their chicken tenders are a hidden gem, featuring a unique spice blend and a perfectly crispy exterior.
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Honey Butter Fried Chicken: A Chicago institution, this spot offers some of the city's best fried chicken, and their tenders are no exception. Expect juicy meat and a seriously addictive honey butter.
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Pequod's Pizza: Unexpected, perhaps, but Pequod's surprisingly excellent chicken tenders are a testament to their culinary prowess. Crispy, juicy, and perfect for sharing.
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The Original Ranch: This spot delivers a classic fried chicken tender experience, showcasing simple, perfectly executed comfort food at its best.
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Big Star: Known for its tacos, Big Star's chicken tenders are a must-try for those seeking a flavorful, slightly spicy option.
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RPM Italian: Their upscale take on the classic chicken tender features high-quality ingredients and sophisticated seasoning.
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Andros Taverna: While Mediterranean cuisine is the focus, their chicken tenders provide a surprisingly delicious detour from the norm.
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Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's renowned restaurant offers a globally-inspired take on the dish; expect bold flavors and unique combinations.
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Monteverde: This Michelin-starred Italian restaurant surprises with a sophisticated version of chicken tenders; expect high-quality ingredients and a refined preparation.
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Au Cheval: Known for their legendary burgers, Au Cheval also has surprisingly delicious chicken tenders, cooked to perfection.
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Stan's Donuts: While mainly a donut shop, Stan's offers a unique take on chicken tenders, often showcasing seasonal flavors and creative preparations.
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Lou Mitchell's: This Chicago institution serves up classic comfort food, and their chicken tenders are a testament to their commitment to quality ingredients and preparation.
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Public House: This gastropub offers a wide variety of dishes, and their chicken tenders are a tasty and satisfying option.
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RPM Steak: Similar to RPM Italian, their steakhouse sibling delivers a refined take on the classic.
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Little Goat Diner: Another Stephanie Izard gem, Little Goat offers creative and delicious chicken tender variations, showcasing inventive flavor combinations.
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Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: Known for their sophisticated atmosphere, their chicken tenders offer a surprising but satisfying detour from their usual menu.
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RPM Seafood: This high-end seafood restaurant serves upscale versions of many classic dishes, including chicken tenders.
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River Roast: This riverside restaurant offers a relaxed setting and hearty portions of delicious chicken tenders.
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Summer House Santa Monica: While a Californian-inspired restaurant, their chicken tenders are a surprisingly delicious and well-executed dish.
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Federales: This upscale Mexican restaurant features unique chicken tender preparations, reflecting their focus on high-quality ingredients and modern techniques.
Beyond the Top 20: Discovering Your Own Chicago Chicken Tender Gems
This list is just a starting point. Chicago's diverse culinary scene is constantly evolving, and new places offering amazing chicken tenders are popping up all the time. Don't hesitate to explore beyond this list and discover your own personal favorites! Consider using online review sites and local blogs to find hidden gems. Happy eating!
