The Budlong Hot Chicken Chicago

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey to the heart of Nashville’s fiery chicken scene, right here in the Windy City! The Budlong Hot Chicken Chicago brings the authentic heat and soulful flavors of true hot chicken to Chicagoans, offering a vibrant and welcoming spot that’s become a local favorite for its perfectly spiced poultry and comforting Southern sides. Nestled conveniently at 1008 W Armitage Ave in the charming Lincoln Park neighborhood, The Budlong is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination for flavor enthusiasts seeking that perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and spicy. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by an inviting, casual ambiance, with warm lighting and a bustling energy that hints at the deliciousness awaiting you. It’s a lively spot perfect for a casual lunch, a dynamic dinner with friends, or a relaxed family meal.

Operating seven days a week to satisfy your hot chicken cravings, The Budlong opens its doors from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Monday through Sunday, ensuring you can get your fix almost any time hunger strikes. Whether you’re planning a quick takeout order or a leisurely dine-in experience, their consistent hours make it easy to fit into your schedule. If you have any questions, want to inquire about catering, or simply wish to share your Budlong experience, their friendly team is just a call away at (773) 661-9300. You can also reach out via email at info@thebudlong.com for a prompt and helpful response. The Budlong Hot Chicken Chicago prides itself on creating a memorable experience from the first bite to the last, marrying impeccable service with truly exceptional food. Their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction shines through in every aspect, making it a must-visit spot for both seasoned hot chicken aficionados and newcomers alike.

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Menu Highlights

Dive into the fiery and flavorful world of The Budlong Hot Chicken, where every dish is a testament to the art of Nashville-style cooking. Our menu is meticulously crafted to offer a diverse range of heat levels, from a gentle hum to an intense blaze, ensuring there’s something to tantalize every palate. Beyond the star attraction—our perfectly fried hot chicken—you’ll discover an array of classic Southern sides, refreshing salads, delightful desserts, and thirst-quenching beverages, all designed to complement your spicy adventure. Each item is prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, promising a memorable and utterly satisfying meal. Get ready to explore the depth of flavor and irresistible crunch that makes The Budlong a true Chicago gem.

Signature Hot Chicken Sandwiches

The Classic Budlong Sandwich: Crispy chicken, pickles, mayo on a toasted bun – a timeless, perfect bite.
Nashville Mild Sandwich: Gentle heat, juicy chicken, refreshing slaw, and signature sauce for a soft kick.
Medium Heat Sandwich: A pleasant, noticeable warmth with pickles and special sauce, wonderfully balanced.
Hot Heat Sandwich: Bold, fiery, unforgettable burn with spicy sauce and cooling pickles.
X-Hot Heat Sandwich: Intense, blazing heat for true thrill-seekers, a challenge worth taking.
The Reaper Sandwich: Extreme, legendary spice, for the most daring palate, pure exhilaration.
Honey Butter Sandwich: Sweet and savory perfection, fried chicken, honey butter, on a brioche.
Cali Style Sandwich: Avocado, lettuce, tomato, ranch, on hot chicken – a refreshing twist.
Spicy Mac ‘n Cheese Sandwich: Hot chicken, creamy mac and cheese piled high, utterly decadent.
Budlong Deluxe Sandwich: Bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, our famous hot chicken, ultimate indulgence.

Hot Chicken Plates & Combos

Quarter Bird Plate (White Meat): Juicy breast and wing, your chosen heat, two sides, pure comfort.
Quarter Bird Plate (Dark Meat): Flavorful leg and thigh, chosen heat level, two satisfying sides.
Half Bird Plate: Breast, wing, leg, thigh, with two sides, a generous, delicious spread.
Whole Bird Plate: An entire chicken, four delectable sides, perfect for sharing or a feast.
3-Piece Tender Plate: Three crispy, tender strips, choice of heat, two classic Southern sides.
5-Piece Tender Plate: Five perfectly seasoned tenders, selected heat, two hearty, satisfying sides.
6-Piece Wing Plate: Six crispy, saucy wings, your heat preference, served with two delicious sides.
12-Piece Wing Plate: A dozen flavorful wings, choose your heat, accompanied by two generous sides.
Budlong Family Feast: Whole chicken, six tenders, four sides, perfect for group gatherings, great value.
Kids Tender Meal: Two tenders, fries, drink – a perfect, milder option for younger guests.

Irresistible Southern Sides

Creamy Mac & Cheese: Rich, velvety, cheesy goodness, the ultimate comfort food side.
Braised Collard Greens: Slow-cooked, savory, smoky, with a hint of spice, truly authentic.
Hand-Cut Fries: Crispy, perfectly salted, golden-brown potatoes, an essential sidekick.
Creamy Coleslaw: Cool, crisp, tangy, a refreshing counterpoint to the heat.
Buttermilk Biscuits (2 pc): Fluffy, buttery, warm, perfect for soaking up delicious sauces.
House-Made Pickles: Tangy, crunchy, briny slices, cuts through the richness beautifully.
Classic Potato Salad: Creamy, chunky, seasoned just right, a picnic staple done perfectly.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, naturally sweet, a delightful alternative to regular fries.
Skillet Cornbread: Moist, slightly sweet, golden-brown, baked to perfection, ideal with everything.
Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted, tender-crisp, with a flavorful, chili-infused kick, unexpectedly good.

Fresh Salads & Extras

Hot Chicken Salad: Mixed greens, tomato, cucumber, hot chicken, ranch, a spicy, fresh option.
Garden Fresh Salad: Crisp greens, assorted vegetables, choice of dressing, light and vibrant.
Extra Budlong Sauce: Our secret blend of creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy flavors.
Extra Comeback Sauce: Zesty, flavorful, a perfect dipping sauce for everything.
Extra Ranch Dressing: Cool, creamy, classic – ideal for balancing the hot chicken.

Sweet Endings & Beverages

Banana Pudding: Creamy, sweet, with fresh bananas and vanilla wafers, Southern classic.
Peach Cobbler: Warm, spiced peaches with a sweet, crumbly topping, pure indulgence.
Chocolate Chip Cookie: Chewy, rich, loaded with chocolate chips, a satisfying sweet treat.
Sweet Tea: Refreshing, perfectly sweetened, the quintessential Southern beverage.
Unsweet Tea: Crisp, clean, robust black tea, a great palate cleanser.
Fresh Lemonade: Tart, sweet, incredibly refreshing, made with real lemons.
Assorted Fountain Drinks: Classic sodas to quench your thirst, fizzing with flavor.
Craft Bottled Sodas: Unique, gourmet sodas for a distinctive, bubbly experience.

The Budlong Hot Chicken Chicago offers a wonderfully unpretentious yet vibrant dining atmosphere. The interior boasts a modern-rustic charm, with exposed brick, warm wooden accents, and playful artwork that creates an inviting, laid-back vibe. Service is consistently friendly, efficient, and genuinely welcoming, making you feel right at home from the moment you step in. Pricing is very fair, offering excellent value for the quality and generous portions of food you receive. It’s a perfect spot for anyone looking for a lively, casual setting to enjoy genuinely delicious, authentic Nashville hot chicken without breaking the bank. The energy is always buzzing, making it a fantastic spot for a fun meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Budlong Hot Chicken Chicago stands out as a true gem in the city’s diverse culinary landscape, masterfully bringing the soulful heat of Nashville right to your plate. While every dish is a winner, the Hot Heat Sandwich truly captures the essence of what they do best – a perfectly fried chicken breast with that signature kick, balanced by crisp pickles and a soft bun. For those seeking a full meal, the Half Bird Plate with a side of their incredibly creamy Mac & Cheese and the smoky Braised Collard Greens offers an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures. Don’t forget to wash it all down with their authentic Sweet Tea, and perhaps brave the legendary The Reaper Sandwich if you dare!

This is the perfect spot for anyone who appreciates genuine, high-quality fried chicken with a spicy edge. Whether you’re a seasoned spice enthusiast, a curious foodie looking for a new adventure, or simply someone who enjoys a delicious, comforting meal in a lively setting, The Budlong has something for you. Families will appreciate the friendly atmosphere and diverse menu options, while groups of friends will love the communal energy and the challenge of exploring different heat levels.

My mini-review? Simply put, The Budlong Hot Chicken Chicago is fantastic. It’s consistently delicious, the staff are wonderful, and the overall experience is just plain fun. The chicken is always cooked to perfection – crispy on the outside, incredibly juicy on the inside, and seasoned with a depth of flavor that goes far beyond just heat. It’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself craving long after your first visit, a testament to their dedication to authentic, mouth-watering Nashville hot chicken. Highly recommended!

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