Burien’s chicken scene has been sizzling all year, and more spots than ever are serving up crispy, juicy, and saucy perfection. You can’t drive a mile without spotting a new fryer-fired joint or a heritage-bird specialist where you might’ve seen coffee shops or boutiques just months ago. To save you from hopping between takeout counters, we’ve gathered these eight standout restaurants, complete with hours and must-order dishes.
Big Chicken
$ | (425) 207-8710 | WEBSITE
Just off the main drag, Big Chicken is serving its crispy popcorn chicken and super cheesy mac and cheese dusted with Cheeto crumbs from 11am to 10pm, seven days a week. The spicy chicken sandwich can be customized with condiments, and the double chocolate milkshakes remain a must-try for their thick, creamy texture. While the loaded fries with cheese, bacon, and banana peppers are a recent hit, some find the to-go fries can get a bit soggy.
The crinkle fries stay crispy, though they could use a touch more seasoning. With friendly, quick service in a well-kept, inviting space, it’s a spot worth returning to.
Ichi Teriyaki
$ | (253) 850-0553 | WEBSITE
Ichi Teriyaki has more going for it than just the teriyaki sauce that you’ll probably want to ask for extra of. It’s been a local favorite for years and it’s a neighborhood staple for Asian classics like chicken teriyaki and orange chicken. They’ve also had generous portions, but they’ve adjusted their serving sizes even more since the pandemic.
Chick-fil-A
$ | (425) 336-7010 | WEBSITE
This popular chicken spot in Burien has set up a very accessible parking area where you won’t need to nervously squeeze between cars with your family. The big parking spots and wide doors are available for everyone, which makes it easy to visit whether you’re dining in or using the drive-thru.
Church’s Texas Chicken
$ | (206) 824-4212 | WEBSITE
Burien has plenty to offer, but shiny new buildings aren’t exactly the draw. Thankfully, one of the best places to find comfort is right here, specifically from the familiar counter at Church’s Texas Chicken. The seats in this nostalgic spot are available daily, with service that’s consistently nice and attentive. The menu stays true to its roots, featuring those spicy tenders with creamy jalapeno sauce that keep people coming back.
While the building shows its age, the food quality has seen noticeable improvements lately, making that hot, delicious chicken worth the trip—some even prefer it over Popeyes. It’s the kind of place where you grab a spicy chicken sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy, and even if an order gets mixed up now and then, you leave remembering why this place remains a staple.
Jollibee
$ | (206) 248-4240 | WEBSITE
You have quite a few options for great fried chicken in Burien, but few offer it as many different ways as this popular spot. You can order the highly praised fried chicken with that ‘killer’ gravy for lunch or dinner any day, or you can try the chicken sandwich that’s also highly enjoyed, and attempt not to devour it all in one sitting.
Georgetown Shell Chicken & Deli
$ | (206) 767-6200 | WEBSITE
This gas station spot in Burien has surprisingly delightful fare available every day. When you’re in the mood for orange chicken taquitos, soft serve ice cream, or a bacon-wrapped BBQ hot dog, drop by for breakfast plates and specialty sandwiches. The friendly staff and fresh, hot deli food make this a great stop.
KFC
$ | (206) 621-1602 | WEBSITE
Some spots have added more disabled parking spots, and others have improved their wheelchair accessibility, but the award for satisfying comfort food has to go to this Burien KFC. Not only do they serve the perfect Popcorn Chicken Bowl with corn, mashed potatoes, and gravy, but they also offer the popular Meals Deal—which you can enjoy while appreciating their quick, friendly service.
Ezell’s Famous Chicken
$ | (206) 590-2800 | WEBSITE
This fried chicken spot is serving up tasty meals from open to close every day, with convenient order ahead available. A stop at this well-loved Burien location is a perfect place to grab some crunchy fried chicken, incredible tenders, and homemade-tasting potato salad. The friendly and helpful employees provide excellent service, quickly handling any issues, while you enjoy popular favorites like the rolls, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, and peach cobbler with its cinnamon flavor.