9 of the best places to get fried chicken in New Mexico

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can rival the universal appeal of fried chicken.

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, it's a dish that transcends geographical boundaries. In New Mexico, you can expect a unique twist on this beloved dish. Here, we'll explore some of the best places in the Land of Enchantment to savor fried chicken.

Please confirm all hours and locations before planning your trip. This list was prepared with the help of online reviews.

1. Nexus Brewery, Albuquerque

Nexus Brewery is not only known for its craft beer but also for its sumptuous Southern-style fried chicken. The secret to their mouth-watering fried chicken lies in the buttermilk brine and a perfectly seasoned crust, resulting in a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Address: 4730 Pan American Freeway Northeast (505) 242-4100

2. Sparky's, Hatch

Hatch, New Mexico, is famous for its chiles, and Sparky's takes full advantage of this by infusing their fried chicken with a spicy kick. Their unique in-house batter adds a zesty twist to the traditional fried chicken experience.

Address: 115 Franklin Street (575) 267-4222

3. K'Lynn's Southern & Cajun Fusion, Rio Rancho

If you're in Rio Rancho and craving some soulful fried chicken, look no further than K'lynn's. This cozy eatery combines Southern and Cajun flavors, serving up fried chicken that's tender, juicy, and rich in flavor. Grab some sides like red beans and rice for the full Southern experience.

Address: 4300 Ridgecrest Drive Southeast Suite O (505) 453-3068

4. Shorty’s Bar-B-Q, Moriarty

The secret behind Shorty’s chicken is the unique broasting method, which combines the best of pressure cooking and deep frying. This technique results in chicken that's exceptionally tender, as it effectively seals in all those flavorful juices.

Address: 1202 West Route 66 Main Street (505) 832-0400

5. Smokey Bear Restaurant, Capitan

This down-to-earth restaurant has become a beloved fixture within the community, known for serving nothing less than wholesome comfort food. It's a place that exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of a Sunday afternoon family supper. Their dish featuring a breaded fried chicken breast that's generously coated in creamy gravy, is very popular.

Address: 310 Smokey Bear Boulevard (575) 354-2257

6. Q’s Southern Bistro, Silver City

This restaurant offers a diverse selection of Southwestern classics and comfort food with a distinct Southern influence. It's a culinary melting pot where a rich tapestry of tastes, flavors, and cultures come together.

A standout on their menu is the deep-fried chicken. Each piece of chicken is dipped in milk, then coated with a seasoned flour mixture, followed by another dip in milk. This process creates a crispy and crunchy skin.

Address: 101 East College Avenue (575) 534-4401

7. Coal Street Pub, Gallup

Coal Street’s fried chicken plate is a dish that pays homage to the chef's skill and passion. This meal features crispy chicken with a coating that boasts a subtle hint of sweetness. It's accompanied by classic mashed potatoes and rich gravy, adding to the comfort of the experience.

This welcoming establishment is a delightful local gem, offering a relaxing atmosphere and a taste of classic comfort food.

Address: 303 West Coal Avenue (505) 722-0117

8. Anaheim Jacks, Rudioso

Their chicken fried chicken plate stands shoulder-to-shoulder with their famed burgers. Served piping hot and irresistibly crispy, this dish has the kind of crunch factor that instantly signals the presence of a skilled chef in the kitchen.

Address: 1097 Mechem Drive (575) 808-8340

9. Aceq Restaurant, Arroyo Seco

Located in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this family-owned gem takes pride in offering a farm-to-table experience with a locally-sourced menu that changes daily.

If you're fortunate enough to visit when fried chicken graces the menu, it's a culinary delight not to be missed. This dish comes in two variations: a golden and crispy fried chicken atop a waffle, served with a kick of spicy hot sauce and a touch of buttery maple syrup. Alternatively, you can savor the crunchy fried chicken, crowned with a velvety, rich gravy. It's a worthwhile road trip for anyone nearby.

Address: 480 NM-150 (575) 216-7357

Photos of some of the best spots serving up chicken in New Mexico