When the news broke that the Queen herself, Beyoncé, had a hankering for some fried chicken during her London visit, we were intrigued. After all, if it’s good enough for Beyoncé, it’s certainly worth investigating. With curiosity piqued and taste buds tingling, we made our way to the Chicken Shop in Putney, eager to experience what the buzz was all about. We’re big fans of fried chicken in this household so we know a thing or two when it comes to what’s good.
As we entered the Putney branch on an early afternoon, we were greeted by an inviting ambiance (neon lighting, order yourself screens, that sort of vibe) all with the aroma of chicken sizzling away in the background.
The menu boasts a small but perfectly curated selection, each dish a testament to Chicken Shop’s commitment to excellence – clearly a less is more approach (which we appreciate as too much choice often means they do it all but none too well). As we perused the offerings, we knew we had to sample the acclaimed favorites that had earned Beyoncé’s seal of approval.
First up, the Straight Up Burger – an undeniable crowd-pleaser and the restaurant’s number one bestseller. A succulent chicken fillet, masterfully coated in Chicken Shop’s unique double-crunch breading, was complemented by crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a velvety buttermilk and herb mayo. All of this goodness was tucked between a soft, pillowy bun, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that danced on the palate. Yum. My six year old loved this.
For those seeking a pure and unadulterated fried chicken experience, the Naked Tenders were a revelation. Juicy inner fillets, encased in that irresistible double-crunch coating, delivered a satisfying crunch with every bite. These tender delights were the perfect canvas for Chicken Shop’s hand-crafted dips, each one a harmonious marriage of flavors. Our favourite was the Samurai Sauce. BANGING.
And let’s not forget the House Fries – a symphony of textures that could only be achieved through skilled culinary craftsmanship. Crispy on the outside, delightfully fluffy on the inside, these crinkle-cut fries were an ideal vessel for scooping up the array of dips and sauces that accompanied our meal. You can get them diiirty or have them plain like we did.
Lastly there’s wings. We got the hot and crispy Korean wings and they were banging. Loved every bite and left us wanting more. As we savored our meal, we couldn’t help but appreciate the ethos behind Chicken Shop. Their dedication to crafting the “BEST fried chicken on the planet” was more than just a boast – it was a promise that had been undeniably fulfilled.
So, whether you’re a dedicated fan of Queen Bey or simply in search of a fried chicken experience that transcends the ordinary, Chicken Shop is a destination that deserves a spot on your culinary map. With multiple locations across London and the convenience of delivery platforms like UberEats, Just Eat, and Deliveroo, indulging in the Straight Up Burger, savoring the Naked Tenders, and relishing the House Fries is just a few clicks away.