They're Calling This Louisiana-Based Fried Chicken Chain Best In U.S.

NEW ORLEANS, GA -- With its reputation for stellar jambalaya, pot-licking gumbo and other favorites that pull from its French, Spanish and African heritage, it would make sense that Louisiana would come out on top when it came to certain rice- or sauce-based dishes, but fried chicken, too? Yes, that's the consensus from the hearty eaters at Thrillist, who say the nation's should best fried chicken is a national chain called Krispy Krunchy Chicken.

You might not of heard of KKC before but you've probably seen it, especially in area gas stations. The chain has been around for 28 years and has virtually taken over the convenience store market in 2,300 locations in 41 states. (SIGN UP: For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts. Or if you have an iPhone, download the free Patch app.)

Unlike its competitors such as Chick-fil-A, KFC and Popeyes, Krispy Krunchy Chicken specializes in the store-based quick-serve restaurant concept. Their chicken is known for its heavily seasoned, breaded taste that has become an underground yet over-the-top hit to the Citgo set.

Thrillist, the food and drink website, says this about the chain's fare: "KKC's chicken is expertly balanced with the right amount of garlic, paprika, and black pepper. The golden exoskeleton on KKC’s pieces has an airy flakiness and a sturdy architecture that never crumbles, all thanks to the aforementioned spice blend."

Here's where to get it in metro Atlanta:

-- Cobb County: Krispy Krunchy Chicken, 2610 Delk Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067

-- Downtown: Krispy Krunchy Chicken, @ 5 Points, 20 Broad St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303

-- Midtown: Krispy Krunchy Chicken, 160 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303

-- West Cobb / Douglas County: Krispy Krunchy Chicken, 1104 Thornton Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122

So next time you're in the mood for some Southern-fried poultry, just remember that the top bird just might be where you fill your tank.

Image via Pixabay