A State-by-State Guide to America's Favorite Fried Chicken

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© Willie Mae's Scotch House

Louisiana: Willie Mae's Scotch House

When it comes to fried chicken in Louisiana – or anywhere, for that matter – Willie Mae’s Scotch House in New Orleans is the stuff of legend. Established in 1957 in the Treme neighborhood, this humble family-owned restaurant has repeatedly been hailed as serving some of the finest fried chicken on the planet. The late Willie Mae Seaton’s secret recipe produces chicken that is deeply seasoned, unbelievably juicy, and cloaked in a uniquely crispy, “burnished dark brown” crust that’s perfectly seasoned. It’s so good that Willie Mae’s won a James Beard Award (America’s Classics) and has been praised by food critics nationwide. After surviving Hurricane Katrina (thanks to a community rebuild effort), the restaurant is now run by Willie Mae’s great-granddaughter, carrying on the legacy. Diners line up for plates of this famous chicken, which come simply with a slice of white bread and sides like butter beans or mac ’n’ cheese. One bite and you understand why Bon Appétit, the Food Network, and Serious Eats all agree: Willie Mae’s just might be the best fried chicken in America. It’s a true New Orleans treasure that exemplifies the love and soul in Southern cooking.