What’s summer without a plate of fried chicken? The crispy and juicy entree is a must on those super-hot days. Stop by any of these NoVA restaurants to order yourself a plate or bucket full of the mouthwatering comfort food.
Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken
At Astro, you go for the doughnuts but stay for the fried chicken. Once it hits 11:30 a.m., the chicken combos are up for grabs. Options include two pieces of dark meat, two pieces of white meat, a four- and eight-piece combo, and a family meal. Add a doughnut to your order for the perfect combination of sweet and savory. 4001 Campbell Ave., Arlington
Founding Farmers
The DMV-based restaurant has plenty of options for whatever mood you’re in. The chicken section of the menu is full of crispy options, including tenders, classic or hot honey fried chicken, and chicken and waffles. Each dish comes with its own set of sides, and the fried chicken meals can be served spicy or southern style. 1904 Reston Metro Plz., Reston; 1800 Tysons Blvd., Tysons
Hamrock’s
If you have a craving for fried chicken, you might as well get all the tasty fixings too. The restaurant’s Southern fried chicken dish comes with a boneless fried chicken breast, mashed potatoes, gravy, and honey chili glazed carrots. Good luck making room for dessert after that plate. 3950 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax
Jollibee
When you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, grab a bucket of chicken from Jollibee. The Filipino fast-food chain has a cult-like following for a good reason. Its signature Chickenjoy chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy and will keep you coming back for more. 4809 Beauregard St., Alexandria; 4406 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly
Roaming Rooster
Since opening its first location in 2015, Roaming Rooster has become a favorite for fried chicken across the region. With fresh free-range, grain-fed, and antibiotic-free chicken, you’ll always get the best. Coleslaw and housemade vinaigrette accompany the meal. The menu also features wings, chicken tenders, and chicken nuggets. 6417 Shiplett Blvd., Burke; 14394 Chantilly Crossing Ln., Chantilly; 1500 Cornerside Blvd., Vienna
Ruthie’s All-Day
You can find fried chicken dishes all over the menu at Ruthie’s. Pop in for lunch or dinner to order tenders, which come with your choice of two or three sides. Diners can also satisfy their appetites with fried chicken on a sandwich, in a biscuit for brunch, or a in a cobb salad for those who want something a little lighter. 3411 Fifth St. S., Arlington
Feature image by Scott Suchman, courtesy Astro Doughnuts
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