The West Loop, Chicago's culinary playground, boasts an impressive array of restaurants, and chicken sandwiches have firmly claimed their place among the neighborhood's gastronomic stars. Forget boring lunchtime fare; these aren't your average fast-food offerings. This guide dives deep into the best 16 chicken sandwiches the West Loop has to offer, providing a detailed analysis to help you find your perfect bite. We'll cover everything from crispy fried delights to juicy, grilled options, ensuring there's something for every chicken sandwich connoisseur.
A Crispy, Juicy Journey: Exploring West Loop's Chicken Sandwich Scene
The West Loop's chicken sandwich game is strong, diverse, and fiercely competitive. Restaurants aren't just serving chicken between buns; they're crafting culinary experiences. From classic Southern fried to innovative gourmet creations, the variety ensures a chicken sandwich for every taste and preference. This list showcases the best of the best, categorized for easy navigation.
Fried Chicken Fanatics: The Crispy Classics
These sandwiches focus on the art of the perfect fried chicken breast – crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
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Au Cheval: While famous for their burgers, Au Cheval's fried chicken sandwich is a hidden gem. Expect a perfectly seasoned, incredibly crispy crust surrounding unbelievably juicy chicken. Their signature sauce elevates the experience.
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Monteverde: This acclaimed Italian restaurant surprisingly delivers one of the best fried chicken sandwiches in the area. Their take is unique, with a lighter, crispier breading, allowing the chicken's natural flavor to shine through.
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Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's renowned restaurant offers a creative, globally-inspired fried chicken sandwich that's anything but ordinary. Expect bold flavors and unexpected ingredients elevating this classic dish.
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RPM Italian: Known for upscale Italian fare, RPM Italian surprisingly boasts a killer fried chicken sandwich. It's the perfect blend of elegance and comfort food, with high-quality ingredients.
Grilled Goodness: The Juicy Alternatives
For those who prefer a less-fried, more juicy experience, these grilled chicken sandwiches are sure to please.
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Little Goat: Another Stephanie Izard creation, Little Goat's grilled chicken sandwich is a testament to quality ingredients and innovative flavor pairings. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy.
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C Chicago: A refined take on the chicken sandwich, C Chicago uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients resulting in a juicy and flavorful experience.
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Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This steakhouse offers a surprisingly delightful grilled chicken sandwich, showcasing perfectly seasoned chicken with a sophisticated twist.
Beyond the Bun: Unique Chicken Sandwich Creations
These establishments break the mold, experimenting with unique flavor combinations and presentation.
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Andros Taverna: Expect a Mediterranean twist on the chicken sandwich with this unique offering. It's a light, flavorful alternative to traditional fried chicken.
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Public House: A gastropub staple, Public House provides a hearty, satisfying chicken sandwich with creative toppings.
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The Purple Pig: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers an interesting take on chicken, incorporating bold flavors and unexpected ingredient combinations.
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Formento's: While known for Italian, their chicken sandwich is a delightful surprise that offers a sophisticated approach to this classic dish.
Sweet and Spicy Sensations: Flavor Explosions
These are the chicken sandwiches that pack a flavorful punch!
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RPM Steak: Their chicken sandwich showcases a bold and spicy profile, perfect for adventurous palates.
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Smyth: Smyth offers a more refined chicken sandwich with complex flavor profiles, showcasing their innovative culinary approach.
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West Loop: Simple yet satisfying, West Loop's chicken sandwich might lack pizzazz in presentation, but its flavor makes up for it.
Honorable Mentions: Worth a Try
These chicken sandwiches just missed the top spots but still deserve a mention.
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The Dearborn: A classic, well-executed chicken sandwich that delivers on taste and quality.
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Rosebud on Taylor: A comfortable option providing a consistently good chicken sandwich.
Finding Your Perfect West Loop Chicken Sandwich
This comprehensive guide offers a diverse range of chicken sandwiches in West Loop, Chicago. Whether you crave crispy, juicy, grilled, or something uniquely creative, this curated list provides a starting point for your culinary adventure. Remember to check restaurant hours and consider making reservations, especially during peak times. Happy eating!
