The best fried chicken in Des Moines, according to our readers

Are you a fried chicken fanatic looking for the best fried chicken joints in Des Moines? Well, look no further! We conducted a readers’ choice poll to determine the best fried chicken in town, and the results are in.

From crispy to juicy, from spicy to savory, we’ve got you covered with the top four picks that will surely satisfy your fried chicken cravings. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list of the best fried chicken spots in Des Moines as voted by you!

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4. Chicago Speakeasy

For over 42 years, Chicago Speakeasy has been dishing out prime rib, steaks, sandwiches, and some of the best darn fried chicken in town. Discovering this tenured family favorite feels like you’ve been let in on one of the city’s best-kept secrets. And, trust us, the fried chicken here is a revelation you’ll want to shout about (though you might prefer to keep it your little secret).

At Chicago Speakeasy, the atmosphere is the opposite of its namesake. It’s inviting, a bit nostalgic, and comfortable. And they’re also known for their legendary service. This is a place to slow down, enjoy one of over 50 scratch-made items, and enjoy the company.

What sets Chicago Speakeasy’s fried chicken apart is its seasoning and breading. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, giving the meat a depth of flavor that penetrates to the bone. Then, it’s coated in a batter so crunchy and crispy, that it’s clearly the result of years of practice made perfect. 

And for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the “speakeasy” experience, the Prohibition-era cocktails are not to be missed. Each sip is a nod to the past, crafted with the same attention to detail and nod to nostalgia as the food.

Chicago Speakeasy is a purely Des Moines experience. It’s a place where foodies in the know can’t wait for the fried chicken special on Thursdays. It’s where Prohibition-era drinks are served up with a smile and the wine list is curated to fit the vibe. And it’s where prime rib is served in huge quantities that never miss the mark on quality. Whatever your tastes, Chicago Speakeasy promises an evening of delicious dining.

3. The High Life Lounge

Dive into a time warp with a visit to The High Life Lounge, where every bite of their “broasted” chicken is a crunchy leap through time. This spot is a time machine set to the golden era of the ’60s and ’70s, serving up nostalgia and full bellies with all of its throwback meals.

The ambiance screams “retro chic,” with decor that could very well have been borrowed from your grandparent’s favorite pub. With Formica countertops, ‘60s chairs, and old-fashioned booths, the whole vibe is a blast from the past. But don’t let the vintage vibes fool you: The High Life Lounge is serious about its fried chicken game. 

The secret to their success? Their patented pressure-frying process that you won’t find anywhere else. Each breast, wing, thigh, and drumstick is cooked to perfection, with a balance of crunch and succulence in every bite. It’s a culinary throwback that pays homage to the simple pleasures of a well-cooked meal while incorporating the refined tastes of the modern palate.

The High Life Lounge doesn’t just serve fantastic fried chicken. Here, you can find all the best comfort food from meatloaf to a hot turkey dinner to a big juicy burger and beyond. You can also add sides that are anything but afterthoughts. Think creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and even deviled eggs. It’s comfort food done right, with each dish carefully crafted to fit the theme.

Whether you’re a nostalgia enthusiast with an appetite for the past, or a fried chicken aficionado always on the hunt for your next crispy fix, The High Life Lounge is a place where retro meets modern in the most delicious way possible. So, pull up a chair, tuck in your paper napkin, and prepare to indulge in a fried chicken experience that’s truly out of this era.

2. Charlotte’s Kitchen

Prepare to bite into one of the best, crunchiest, cuts of comfort food at Charlotte’s Kitchen in Johnston. Here, each plate will remind you of grandma’s kitchen—if your gran was a whiz with fried chicken, that is. This spot was inspired by the owner’s grandma, Charlotte. Her unconditional love for others and the heart and soul she puts into everything she does is why Charlotte’s Kitchen has captured the hearts of its fans. 

Charlotte’s Kitchen plays a delightful tune of traditional and innovative, with recipes that infuse global flavors into America’s beloved dish. The secret? It’s all in the marinade and the batter. Imagine chicken marinated to the bone in a melody of spices and herbs, then encased in a batter that crisps up to perfection, creating that satisfying crunch we all crave. 

But here’s where Charlotte’s is a huge winner for us. Their menu makes it as easy to order as 1-2-3. Literally. Choose a sandwich, salad, or wrap, then choose your favorite side and a drink. It’s not at all complicated. You can fill your belly with something delicious and satisfying, and you don’t have to ponder over a meticulous, oversaturated menu. 

While Charlotte’s brick-and-mortar location is bright and welcoming for a sit-down dinner or a fast and causal lunch, they originated as a food truck. But this wasn’t your average food truck. This was the food truck that time and again served the best sandwiches in Des Moines according to locals. The food truck, by the way, is still around and can be rented for special events all around town.

So, if you’re hungry for something that feels like a hug from grandma, Charlotte’s Kitchen is ready to serve up a comforting feast. Pull up a chair, grab a napkin (or three), forget the fork and knife, and dive in hands-first into some of Des Moines’ best fried chicken. 

1. Basic Bird

It’s no wonder Basic Bird has claimed readers’ No. 1 spot. Within its colorful walls, you might think you’ve accidentally stumbled into a fried chicken fever dream. In a world filled with over-the-top culinary concoctions, Basic Bird stands out by sticking to the basics, focusing on how to make the crispiest, crunchiest, most flavorful fried chicken. This James Beard award-nominated team knows their stuff, and the proof is on the plate. 

In our humble opinion, there’s nothing “basic” about the taste of their chicken. It’s a masterclass in the art of frying, with each piece showcasing a golden crust that audibly crunches. But the magic lies in their seasonings and sauces, which stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re Team Spicy or have a palate for the milder side of life, Basic Bird caters to all tastes without overcomplicating things.

There’s also nothing basic about their menu options “beyond the bird.” Here, you can find a feast of unique Korean-American fusion options from a bacon and kimchi fried rice bowl (don’t forget the egg!) to corn cheese bites to green onion pancakes. 

It’s a bummer that gluten-free chicken lovers can’t enjoy fried chicken in most restaurants. That’s not the case here. Basic Bird’s fried chicken breading contains potato starch and corn starch in the breading process. While there are menu options and sauces that do contain gluten, a majority of the dishes can be enjoyed by those with celiac disease or other gluten sensitivities. Now put that in your fryer and cook it!

If your idea of a perfect meal includes crispy, golden chicken that’s been cooked to perfection without any unnecessary fuss (or gluten), then Basic Bird is your go-to spot. This Asian fusion spot has managed to capture the hearts of fried chicken lovers with its understated excellence.